One of the world’s most romantic hotels
The magnificent and magical El Fenn
Marrakech has an array of cultural and culinary experiences on offer and is known for its legendary hospitality. Vanessa Branson fell in love with Marrakech, when a passion for travelling and the purchase of a rundown ‘ruin’ of a palace in the centre of Marrakech, turned into a project with pal Howell James CBE, and became the magical Riad El Fenn. We explore Magical El Fenn Marrakech.
The national dish, the Tagine, is intrinsically organic, because it’s prepared in one dish, food is shared and water is saved because there’s very little washing up to do.
Vanessa Branson
Owner of Riad El Fenn
Entered through an unassuming doorway in the heart of the Medina, El Fenn is described as being a place where you can dress up or down according to your mood and where one can happily lie around in one of the beautiful public spaces rather than be tucked away in your own private balcony.
There’s no time structure, all the sofas are schlumping sofas, like we’re doing now, you can take your shoes off and lie with your feet up.
Vanessa Branson
Owner of Riad El Fenn
There is no time structure at El Fenn, and one can enjoy meals, made of mainly organic ingredients sourced from local suppliers, in the lively restaurant or brought to you on a tray ‘where you can lie and eat, read your book or sit on your computer’. The El Fenn staff are like family and the service is warm, unassuming, discreet and professional.
With its beautifully bespoke bedrooms and 3 breathtakingly luxurious tree- filled courtyards boasting marble fountains, El Fenn is rich and inviting, with dark wood antique carved wooden doors, gem- coloured fabrics, comfortable furnishing and roaring fireplaces, setting off its enigmatic ambience. Paintings and photographs from the astonishing modern art collection live comfortably amongst contemporary installations, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultural clashes and connections.
We are very, very supportive of our staff, we don’t have seasonal staff, we support the local economy by sourcing our food and things from them.
Vanessa Branson
Owner of Riad El Fenn
Supporting the local community, Moroccan craftsmen were employed to refurbish El Fenn and renowned Moroccan architect Amine Kabbaj added his Midas touch to the project, maintaining and restoring the historic Moroccan architecture, extending the property to 28 rooms and adding modern amenities. At 7000 square feet, the roof terrace provides perfect views over the city any time of the day.
You know, a hotel plays a role in the community and it’s been one of the greatest rewards of owning the hotel, is how we’ve been able to lift the community around us and I think guests when they come here, they feel that.
Vanessa Branson
Owner of Riad El Fenn
