Palais Mehdi ★★★★★

I know the hotel is called Palais Mehdi, but I am not expecting this. I had seen a couple of pictures, it certainly looked opulent and grand, yet nothing could prepare me for the sensation of arriving at Marrakech airport, being plunged into the heat and bustle, driving through the noisy, colourful streets and then suddenly slipping into the world I find myself in now. A peaceful area of palm trees, majestic houses and at its heart, our not so humble hotel. It truly is a palace, no ostentatious names here, this is the real thing. All at once I am no longer just little old me, I am a princess, someone who deserves to be pampered and spoilt and shall be here in this luxuriant oasis that my man and I are being so charmingly welcomed into.

The entrance hall is something out of a fairytale, glittering chandeliers hang from lofty ceilings supported by gilt pillars and intricate arches. A soft, natural light plays across the marble and dancing fountain and highlights the surprising collection of artwork and paintings distributed throughout, as part of the extensive and varied collection belonging to the hotel owner. The overall impression is that of stepping into something from the Arabian Nights that has been subtly modernised and updated without sacrificing a gilded ounce of its sumptuous enchantment. This proves to be true of our suite too, which is a veritable haven of lavish luxury, offering an array of modern amenities within a setting worthy of a Sultan. A four poster bed blends in harmoniously with the rich furnishings and plush carpets, all bathed in the sunlight coming in through the glass doors that open directly out onto our private terrace.

Opening those doors, we walk out into a verdant paradise of birdsong, bougainvillea and the musky perfume of roses that pervades the vast, resplendent garden. Directly in front of us lies the enormous, graceful pool, a glistening, azure star feature of the hotel, rivalled only by the incredible Spa. This, we soon discover, consists of a gym, its own Hammam and a medley of healing water features, including an outdoor jacuzzi, steam bath and 'effusion shower'. Add to this the massages and personalised treatments as well as a hair and nail salon and it rapidly takes its place amongst the most comprehensive, deluxe Spa facilities I have ever experienced.

Feeling more like a Princess than ever I note from his proud, Princely gait that this magnificent hotel has had a similar effect on my beloved. He has assumed his role effortlessly and I realise he has been especially attentive and chivalrous toward me, I wonder if we can retain a little of this magic effect once we return. Yet for now let's not think of leaving this gorgeous place, we have just arrived and all the wonder and spellbinding delight of this sensational sojourn still awaits us...