In the middle of a sweltering August afternoon, I landed in Marrakech and stepped into the cool and dimly-lit lobby of the famous La Mamounia. This hotel has intrigued luxury travelers for decades with its legendary status and famous guests. It exudes history, elegance and yet also a vibrant Moroccan spirit. I’ve stayed at La Mamounia several times before but this was the first since the pandemic. For a few days, I was once again part of its storied legacy.

Walking in the Footsteps of Winston Churchill

La Mamounia has been a sanctuary for many notable figures over the years. However, perhaps none has left a more enduring mark than former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Known for his love of painting, he often referred to La Mamounia as “the most lovely spot in the whole world.”

Churchill first visited the hotel in the 1930s and returned many times. Often, he brought his easel and paints, eager to capture the beauty of the gardens and the Atlas Mountains beyond. Even now it’s easy to imagine him sitting in the very same gardens I could see from my suite, painting the rows pf flowers and palm trees.

La Mamounia’s gardens have been a central part of its identity since the hotel opened. Spanning nearly 20 acres, it is a lush private world of greenery within the walls of the Marrakech Medina. Orange and olive trees, cacti, roses, and towering palms create a space so serene that it feels miles away from the hustle and bustle.

Somewhere in this garden as well is a small plaque to mark the spot where Churchill used to set up his easel.

The views from the executive suite

My executive suite was a lovely blend of Moroccan craftsmanship and modern elegance. Hand-carved cedarwood screens, intricate zellij tilework in rich shades of cobalt and emerald, and plush velvety furnishings made it feel grand and yet also comforting. Every detail, from the Moroccan silk curtains to the opulent marble bathroom, reflected La Mamounia’s dedication to authentic design. It was a joy to return to this suite every evening.

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Legendary Hospitality at La Mamounia

However the staff’s hospitality was what really made all the difference to my stay. The team was sincere, confident and professional across the board. For instance, a lady serving us lunch in the lobby told us, who said she’d been working at the hotel for many years, gave some pointers for what to see in the medina.

Meanwhile, my spa therapist for the hotel’s signature Obido facial, which was so good that I booked it twice, taught me how to massage my face. As for the wonderful concierge team, they truly tried their best to get me into the most impossible places in Marrakech.

I’ve stayed in the best hotels in the world. Each member of the La Mamounia team was personally invested in making my experience extraordinary.

Farewell to a great hotel

Leaving La Mamounia was a bittersweet experience. Having stayed nearly a week in such splendor, I was reluctant to check out. The past and present coexist harmoniously at La Mamounia and every detail tells a story. And every member of the hotel team is a storyteller, bringing the warmth of Moroccan hospitality to life in every interaction.

This is not simply another luxurious hotel. It is an experience and a journey into Moroccan heritage that lingers long after the stay is over. No wonder Winston Churchill and countless others — myself included — were and continue to be captivated by its charm.

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