© Oliver Fly PhotographyHere are the country's best hotels to book in 2021
Lately, it's safe to say that the entire planet dreams of tomorrow; everybody is craving a getaway and booking a holiday is top of many people's wish-lists. Once international restrictions are hopefully lifted in May, Morocco looks set to be one of the best places to travel, with long sunny days and friendly people, just a few hours' flight away.
Whether you're looking for an off-grid adventure or a glamorous escape, you can find it in Morocco, a land of beauty stretching from the Sahara to the brouhaha of the Red City.
© Oliver Fly Photographydar ahlam
1. Dar Ahlam, Skoura
Between Marrakesh and the Sahara Desert, nestled in the palm groves, lies this ancient kasbah. One of Morocco's best-kept secrets, Dar Ahlam is the ultimate destination, where every day is unique. Each of the 14 rooms are individually decorated and none of your meals will be served in the same place - perhaps a candlelit table set among the trees in the garden, or maybe in a room of the hotel you didn't know existed. The idea is to make every guest's trip different from another.
© Oliver Fly Photographyberber lodge
2. Berber Lodge, Oumnass
On the outskirts of Marrakesh, hidden in an olive-tree oasis, there is something magical: Berber Lodge. This perfect no-technology retreat is an invitation to calm and tranquility. You'll find yourself immersed in a cosy atmosphere in each of the 10 lodges, with earth-coloured walls, berber-chic artefacts, natural textures and fireplaces. It's an idyllic spot to hide away from the hustle and bustle of the Red City. Lounge around the jade-coloured swimming pool before a delicate afternoon breeze wakes you up from your nap. Is it time for a massage ? This is the only thing you need to worry about while staying at Berber Lodge.
© Oliver Fly Photographyamanjena
3. Amanjena, Marrakesh
More a serene palace than a hotel, the first Aman resort on the African continent offers an exquisite break from the busy Medina (old city). Moorish architecture, rose and ochre hues plus the presence of water features all around creates a feeling of wellbeing, warmth and comfort. The Pavilions are set among date palms and olive-trees surrounding the central pool. And even if the hotel gives little reason to leave its grounds (with its delicious restaurants, an Aman Spa and a well-stocked library), some of Morocco's most beautiful landscapes are accessible from the resort.
© Oliver Fly Photographynubia
4. Nubia Luxury Camp, Erg Chegaga Sahara Desert
There are a few places on this planet that leave you lost for words, but Nubia Luxury Camp is one of them. Imagine being immersed in total wilderness with only the camels and sand dunes to keep you company. There is no noise except the wind rattling one of the eight spacious tents that showcase glamping at its finest: luxurious but remote. Reconnect with nature, admire the sunrise on top of the highest dune and spend a candlelit evening by the fire gazing at the stars while enjoying a mouth-watering feast. A once-in-a-lifetime experience.
© Oliver Fly Photographyla mamounia
5. La Mamounia, Marrakesh
La Mamounia represents Marrakesh's regal spirit like no other hotel. Nestled in 20 acres of gardens, Winston Churchill once described it as "the most lovely spot in the whole world". In almost a century of existence, the hotel keeps up with modernity, having been entirely refurbished to an exceptionally high standard by the designer Jacques Garcia. From the exquisite spa to the world-class chefs that helm the restaurants, no details are spared.
© Oliver Fly Photographyscarabeo
6. Scarabeo Camp, the Agafay Desert
Deserts are usually associated with sand, but not Agafay, some 30 minutes away from Marrakesh. Here, you won't find golden dunes but a stoney, lunar landscape with majestic views of the Atlas Mountains, in which Scarabeo Camp sits. In the evening, follow the path of the Moroccan lanterns to one of the 15 tents and fall into a soothing slumber before the first morning rays carry you out of bed for a divine breakfast.
© Oliver Fly Photographyla sultana
7. La Sultana, Oualidia
The high-end seaside destination Oualidia is the perfect escape during roasting summer days. On one side is the Atlantic Ocean and its secret surf spots; on the other, a saltwater lagoon with oyster farms and pink flamingos (the ideal place for bird-watching). And then, standing guard in front of the lagoon is La Sultana, a stone-covered fort. This eco-friendly five-star hotel is exactly what one would expect from a coastal property: lots of sunlight and very little disturbance. Indeed, with only 12 rooms, you will barely see another soul.
© Oliver Fly Photographyel fenn
8. El Fenn, Marrakesh Medina
Welcome to the most arty of all the Marrakesh hotels. Stretching across 12 interconnected riads in the old city, El Fenn is a venue full of surprises. From the ultra-refined 31 rooms to the new magnificent rooftop terrace offering a spectacular view over the Koutoubia Mosque and the Atlas Mountains, El Fenn is Marrakesh's colourful haven. At the restaurant, each dish is made with fresh fruits and vegetables from local markets, and around the hotel, there are three chic marble swimming pools and an excellent spa.
© Oliver Fly Photographyjnane tamsna
9. Jnane Tamsna, Marrakesh
There are two sides to Marrakesh: the chaotic city centre and La Palmeraie. Here stands the vibrant Jnane Tamsna, mesmerising every traveller that encounters it. Why? It could be the dazzling European African decoration in the 24 rooms, or the ravishing garden, or maybe it's the incredible spirit of the place. Jnane Tamsna is one of those rare hotels where you feel welcome as if you were arriving home. Many artists and writers have stayed at this hideaway to find renewed energy - and now we know why.