A New Marrakech Hot Spot: Nobu Hotel Marrakech – Review

This year Marrakech has welcomed a Nobu Hotel, the company’s debut outpost in Africa, and with that brings a Nobu Restaurant and Bar along with one of the largest Nobu Hotel spas. The pièce de resistance: a panoramic rooftop with views of city and the Atlas mountains beyond. Felicity Carter stays at this brand new Marrakech hotspot.

Read the C&TH Responsible Tourism Guide

Hotel Review: Nobu Hotel Marrakech 

Founded by Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper, Nobu has grown to become one of the world’s most luxurious global lifestyle brands. The first Nobu Hotel opened in 2013 in Las Vegas and has since added 30 locations to its offering, with operations spanning five continents. Expanding further, as of this year, Nobu has hit the Marrakech scene. How did they celebrate? With a glitzy party of course. Located in the heart of the ‘Golden Triangle’ within the Hivernage district, the property is close to the Jamaa el-Fna Square – the main square and marketplace of Marrakech in the old city, with a surrounding warren of enticing souks. It wouldn’t be Nobu without an anchor restaurant, and this sits amongst a variety of suites, a large spa, three swimming pools, and a rooftop bar/pool party/restaurant setting. 

STAY

The five-star Nobu Hotel is a suite-only establishment, with 71 spacious suites in the property. Here, and throughout the building, the interior design balances the Japanese contemporary style expected from the Nobu brand with a Moroccan aesthetic. This is first apparent in the lobby, a warm yet spacious area which dons bejewelled tones, local artwork, intricate detailing and handmade fixtures which incorporate and pay homage to local artisans. Spanning three floors, the suites include 44 Junior Suites, 6 Deluxe Junior Suites, 18 Deluxe One Bedroom Suites, 2 Miyabi Suites and 1 Nobu Suite, each offering views of North Africa’s Atlas Mountain range or Marrakech’s largest mosque, Koutoubia Mosque, which dates back to 1147.

DO

For a hit of wellness, the hotel is home to the Pearl Spa, which is one of Nobu Hotels’ largest spas, with a footprint of 2,000 sqm. Here, there is a heated indoor swimming pool, hammams, jacuzzis, steam baths, saunas, and relaxation areas—an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. There is also VIP Spa Suite, a Beauty & Hair Salon and a fitness centre for those who want to work out.

Guests who prefer to spend their time soaking up the sun, meanwhile, can hang out in the Rooftop Garden for elegant beach club vibes. Complete with a statement circular pool deck with cabanas, a restaurant, a bar, and a 360-degree panoramic terrace, relax in style among incredible views of the old city and the Atlas Mountain range. Open every day from noon till 1am, the terrace also plays host to internationally renowned DJ’s and local artist, the perfect spot for a sundowner’s cocktail.

Outside of the hotel, expect a buzzing souk, palaces, and lush gardens – all a stone’s throw away from Nobu. After all, Marrakech has a one-thousand-year-old city centre, so there is plenty of culture to soak up, with highlights being the Souk of the Medina, Jamaa el Fna Square with food and drink stalls, and snake charmers, the Spice Market, El Badîi Palace, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, and its vibrant Majorelle Garden.

EAT 

At the heart of Nobu Hotel, as you’d expect, is dining, and creating memories around the enjoyment of exceptional food. The Nobu menu is influenced by chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s years of studying Japanese cuisine in Tokyo. He is also inspired by his extensive travels, meaning there is a celebration of other flavours, local to each site, with a Nobu interpretation. Nothing says Nobu like the famous Black Cod Miso, Rock Shrimp Tempura, or Yellowtail Sashimi with jalapeño. This sits alongside special creations influenced by local flavours and ingredients and topped off with an extensive cocktail list.

Just off the main Nobu restaurant is the Nobu Bar & Lounge, a place for light bites and signature handcrafted cocktails. Comfortable seating allows guests to unwind in a stylish and relaxed setting. Meanwhile, the rooftop restaurant is home to the Nobu sushi bar and a daily selection of seasonal Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes.

FINAL WORD

For glamour in the heart of Marrakech, Nobu Hotel is the go-to destination. In true Nobu style, it’s a suite-only property, and this theme of luxury is seen throughout the hotel from the dining experience through to the beautiful 360 degree rooftop, complete with pool, all-white cabanas, and wraparound decking which looks over the old city and out to the Atlas Mountains. 

BOOK IT: Rates from £347 per night including breakfast. nobuhotels.com