Here's what it's like inside one of Africa's most anticipated luxury hotel opening of 2024 - A desert oasis that almost lives up to the hype
Nestled in the serene outskirts of Morocco's ochre city, the newly opened Park Hyatt Marrakech offers a striking contrast to the vibrant energy of the Medina (old-town/center city). Having just opened its doors in July 2024, this luxurious retreat was high on my list to experience during my January 2025 visit to Marrakech.
After spending several days immersed in the wonderful chaos of central Marrakech at the Four Seasons, I was ready to discover the city's more tranquil side. A scenic 20-minute drive (roughly $15 USD by taxi) transported me from the bustling souks to what felt like an entirely different world.
What I discovered was a sophisticated enclave that many well-heeled expatriates now call home. The Park Hyatt shares its manicured grounds with the prestigious Al Madeen golf course and a collection of multi-million dollar residences. During my morning workout in the hotel's state-of-the-art gym, I found myself exercising alongside one of these international residents – a small glimpse into this exclusive community of Americans, Canadians, and Europeans who have chosen to make Morocco's countryside their home.
This elegant property represents a new chapter in Marrakech's evolving luxury landscape, where traditional Moroccan hospitality meets contemporary design in a setting that feels worlds away from the medieval medina, yet distinctly rooted in its surroundings.
Arrival at the Park Hyatt Marrakech sets the tone for the level of security and service you can expect throughout your stay. The initial security check at the gate – a quick mirror inspection under our vehicle – might surprise first-time visitors to Morocco, but it's a standard procedure at luxury properties here. Beyond this checkpoint, a grand driveway sweeps you toward the hotel's impressive marble entrance.
The lobby instantly commands attention. Soaring 30-foot ceilings create an atmosphere of grandeur, while pristine black and white tiles arranged in traditional Moroccan patterns stretch across the floors. Marble walls and meticulously considered design elements showcase how the property masterfully balances modern luxury with authentic Moroccan aesthetics.
For this stay, I used Hyatt's Guest of Honor certificate, which grants temporary Globalist status benefits – including potential suite upgrades. While the upgrade process hit a small snag due to some backend reservation confusion (I had applied the certificate after booking), the staff handled it professionally. They offered me access to my original King room while they sorted out the details of my upgrade to a Park Suite.
Those 30 minutes in the standard King room were enlightening – it was arguably one of the most beautifully appointed base-level rooms I've encountered. Spacious and thoughtfully designed, it made me wonder if the upgrade was even necessary. Still, I was curious to experience the Park Suite, and the staff kept their word, collecting me shortly to move to my upgraded accommodation.
A note on the upgrade process: While the hotel eventually sorted everything out, I'd recommend applying Guest of Honor certificates at the time of booking to avoid any potential check-in delays. It's a small detail that could save you some time and worry upon arrival.
The Park Suite exceeded every expectation from the moment I approached its entrance. A beautifully lit, extra-wide door adorned with Moroccan patterns welcomed me into a formal foyer, complete with an intricately designed credenza.
A note about the property layout: Guest rooms and suites occupy separate two-story buildings scattered across the grounds, with the main building housing the lobby and restaurants. There are no elevators on property, so requesting a ground-floor room is advisable for guests with mobility concerns.
The suite itself opens into one expansive space rather than separate rooms – yet it's larger than many New York City apartments. A plush king bed anchors the room, flanked by elegant nightstands. A comfortable armchair and a work-friendly table with two chairs provide distinct spaces for relaxation and productivity.
The ground-floor location offers a spectacular perk: a generous private patio accessing the main grounds, just steps from the pool. This outdoor space proved perfect for working in Morocco's pleasant climate – warm sun balanced by cool breezes.
Inside, the complimentary mini-bar (non-alcoholic) is restocked daily, ensuring fresh refreshments are always at hand.
The bathroom is where this suite truly shines. Full marble finishes create an atmosphere of absolute luxury. A dedicated vanity area includes makeup mirrors and seating, while a cleverly designed closet features a sliding mirror panel and in-room safe.
High-tech amenities abound: a motion-activated Japanese toilet with heated seat, dual marble vanities stocked with Le Labo products, and heated towel racks (though these proved somewhat puzzling to operate).
The shower deserves special mention – a circular water feature takes center stage, but the real showstopper is the full window overlooking a private courtyard. At night, thoughtful lighting transforms this space into a serene backdrop for evening ablutions, at least until the steam fogs up the glass.
The Park Hyatt Marrakech's grounds are nothing short of spectacular, even if the motel-style layout requires brief outdoor walks between venues – a minor consideration during chilly Moroccan nights.
The lobby sets an impressive tone with its modern-library aesthetic, featuring mismatched wood panels and abundant comfortable seating. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the centerpiece view: a stunning main pool backdropped by the majestic Atlas Mountains. This vista is particularly breathtaking during sunrise and sunset, when the mountains emerge from their daily shroud of dust and fog.
The adult-only main pool area offers a refined escape, with attentive staff providing towel service and taking orders from the Mediterranean restaurant. Families aren't forgotten – a separate pool caters to younger guests until its 5 PM closing time, complete with dedicated supervision.
A two-minute stroll from the pool leads to the spa complex, housing an impressive array of wellness facilities.
The space includes a fully-equipped gym, dedicated yoga and cardio rooms, and an indoor pool and jacuzzi area.
The latter features a mesmerizing star-lit ceiling and sweeping views of the adjacent Al Madeen golf course. Plush day beds provide perfect post-swim relaxation spots, though guests should note the marble floors can be quite slippery when wet.
The spa's locker rooms deserve special mention, each featuring a traditional hammam – a quintessentially Moroccan touch that adds authentic local flavor to the wellness experience.
While the prestigious Al Madeen golf course borders the property and provides stunning views, it operates independently from the resort. Guests interested in playing should inquire about access and potential resort guest rates at the concierge desk.
A personal tip: make time for both sunrise and sunset viewing from the main lobby. These moments offer the clearest views of the Atlas Mountains and transform the already stunning property into something truly magical.
The Park Hyatt Marrakech houses two dining establishments, and a full-service bar: TFAYA, specializing in Arabic and Moroccan cuisine, and Le Pavillon, offering Mediterranean fare. While the settings are undeniably elegant, the culinary execution leaves room for improvement.
TFAYA, the property's signature restaurant, unfortunately falls short of expectations. The Chicken Tajine, which should be a showcase of traditional Moroccan spices and cooking techniques, arrived with a disappointing rubber-like texture and surprisingly muted flavors – a letdown for a dish that promises authentic local cuisine.
Breakfast, served daily at TFAYA and included with Globalist benefits, presents a solid if unremarkable spread. The buffet offers standard international breakfast fare, complemented by made-to-order eggs, omelets, and various breakfast classics like waffles, pancakes, and French toast.
However, there is one standout element at breakfast that deserves special mention: the orange juice. Morocco is renowned for its citrus, and the juice here lives up to that reputation, offering a bright spot in an otherwise adequate morning dining experience.
A dining tip: Given the hotel's location outside the city center, it's worth planning some meals in the Medina to experience Marrakech's more authentic and vibrant culinary scene. The concierge can arrange transportation and reservations at some of the city's standout restaurants.
Service at the Park Hyatt Marrakech exemplifies traditional Moroccan hospitality – warm, attentive, and consistently professional. Despite the minor Guest of Honor certificate confusion at check-in, the staff's commitment to guest satisfaction was evident throughout my stay.
Daily housekeeping maintained immaculate standards, with evening turndown service arriving around 9:30 PM. While this timing might be slightly late for some guests' preferences, the attention to detail was impressive – from perfectly positioned slippers to thoughtfully placed floor towels and fresh water service.
The property's true service star is the concierge team, who lived up to their stellar reputation. Having already explored the Medina during my previous stay, I was eager to discover Morocco's countryside. The concierge arranged what turned out to be an unforgettable experience: a private three-hour Atlas Mountains tour with an exceptionally knowledgeable local guide.
This tour transcended typical tourist experiences. Our guide, arranged through the hotel, shared deep insights into the region's geography, the rich culture of the Berber people, and Morocco's fascinating historical and political landscape. The experience reached its pinnacle when he invited us into his home for lunch – the kind of authentic cultural exchange that transforms a good vacation into an unforgettable journey.
The success of this excursion perfectly demonstrates the concierge team's ability to understand guest preferences and create meaningful experiences that go beyond standard tourist offerings. For travelers looking to explore beyond Marrakech's well-trodden paths, the concierge desk should be your first stop.
The Park Hyatt Marrakech participates in World of Hyatt, currently one of the most rewarding hotel loyalty programs in the industry. The program operates on a straightforward category-based award chart, with each property offering three pricing tiers: peak, standard, and off-peak.
As a Category 7 property, the Park Hyatt Marrakech's award rates are:
For my January stay – surprisingly coded as standard season despite being shoulder season – I redeemed 30,000 points per night. The total came to 90,000 World of Hyatt points for three nights, which I transferred from Chase Ultimate Rewards at a 1:1 ratio.
At the time of booking, the One King Bed room commanded a cash rate of $451.45 per night ($1,354.35 total). This meant my points redemption yielded about 1.5 cents per point – a respectable, if not remarkable, value proposition.
Thanks to my friend's generous Guest of Honor certificate, I enjoyed an upgrade to the Park Suite, significantly enhancing the value of my stay. This certificate allows Hyatt Globalist members to extend their top-tier benefits to friends and family, including potential suite upgrades and complimentary breakfast.
A booking tip: Keep an eye on seasonal patterns. Despite January being shoulder season, my dates weren't coded as off-peak. Flexible travelers might find better point values during true off-peak periods.
The Park Hyatt Marrakech represents an intriguing addition to Morocco's luxury hotel landscape. While its location 20 minutes from the Medina might deter some travelers, the property offers a sophisticated retreat that masterfully balances modern luxury with authentic Moroccan elements.
The hotel's greatest strengths lie in its stunning design, impeccable grounds, and remarkable Atlas Mountain views. The rooms – both standard and suites – showcase thoughtful attention to detail, with the bathrooms being particular highlights. The spa facilities and pools provide welcome sanctuaries after days of exploration.
Service hits the high notes you'd expect from a Park Hyatt, with the concierge team standing out as exceptional. Their ability to arrange authentic experiences, like my memorable Atlas Mountains tour, adds significant value to any stay.
The property's main weakness (besides the location) is its dining program. While adequate, neither restaurant quite reaches the heights you might expect from a luxury property of this caliber. Fortunately, the hotel's proximity to both high-end golf communities and traditional villages means diverse dining options are within reach.
From a points perspective, at 30,000 World of Hyatt points per night for standard dates, the redemption value is solid but not extraordinary. However, the potential for suite upgrades through Globalist status or Guest of Honor certificates can dramatically enhance the value proposition.
This property works best as part of a split stay – combine it with a few nights closer to the medina for the full Marrakech experience. It's ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious base for exploring the Atlas Mountains, those looking to combine cultural experiences with golf, or anyone simply wanting to experience Morocco's sophisticated countryside.
Would I return? Absolutely. Despite minor shortcomings in the dining department, the Park Hyatt Marrakech offers a compelling luxury experience that feels distinctly Moroccan while maintaining the high standards global travelers expect from the brand.
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Nestled in the serene outskirts of Morocco's ochre city, the newly opened Park Hyatt Marrakech offers a striking contrast to the vibrant energy of the Medina (old-town/center city). Having just opened its doors in July 2024, this luxurious retreat was high on my list to experience during my January 2025 visit to Marrakech.
After spending several days immersed in the wonderful chaos of central Marrakech at the Four Seasons, I was ready to discover the city's more tranquil side. A scenic 20-minute drive (roughly $15 USD by taxi) transported me from the bustling souks to what felt like an entirely different world.
What I discovered was a sophisticated enclave that many well-heeled expatriates now call home. The Park Hyatt shares its manicured grounds with the prestigious Al Madeen golf course and a collection of multi-million dollar residences. During my morning workout in the hotel's state-of-the-art gym, I found myself exercising alongside one of these international residents – a small glimpse into this exclusive community of Americans, Canadians, and Europeans who have chosen to make Morocco's countryside their home.
This elegant property represents a new chapter in Marrakech's evolving luxury landscape, where traditional Moroccan hospitality meets contemporary design in a setting that feels worlds away from the medieval medina, yet distinctly rooted in its surroundings.
Arrival at the Park Hyatt Marrakech sets the tone for the level of security and service you can expect throughout your stay. The initial security check at the gate – a quick mirror inspection under our vehicle – might surprise first-time visitors to Morocco, but it's a standard procedure at luxury properties here. Beyond this checkpoint, a grand driveway sweeps you toward the hotel's impressive marble entrance.
The lobby instantly commands attention. Soaring 30-foot ceilings create an atmosphere of grandeur, while pristine black and white tiles arranged in traditional Moroccan patterns stretch across the floors. Marble walls and meticulously considered design elements showcase how the property masterfully balances modern luxury with authentic Moroccan aesthetics.
For this stay, I used Hyatt's Guest of Honor certificate, which grants temporary Globalist status benefits – including potential suite upgrades. While the upgrade process hit a small snag due to some backend reservation confusion (I had applied the certificate after booking), the staff handled it professionally. They offered me access to my original King room while they sorted out the details of my upgrade to a Park Suite.
Those 30 minutes in the standard King room were enlightening – it was arguably one of the most beautifully appointed base-level rooms I've encountered. Spacious and thoughtfully designed, it made me wonder if the upgrade was even necessary. Still, I was curious to experience the Park Suite, and the staff kept their word, collecting me shortly to move to my upgraded accommodation.
A note on the upgrade process: While the hotel eventually sorted everything out, I'd recommend applying Guest of Honor certificates at the time of booking to avoid any potential check-in delays. It's a small detail that could save you some time and worry upon arrival.
The Park Suite exceeded every expectation from the moment I approached its entrance. A beautifully lit, extra-wide door adorned with Moroccan patterns welcomed me into a formal foyer, complete with an intricately designed credenza.
A note about the property layout: Guest rooms and suites occupy separate two-story buildings scattered across the grounds, with the main building housing the lobby and restaurants. There are no elevators on property, so requesting a ground-floor room is advisable for guests with mobility concerns.
The suite itself opens into one expansive space rather than separate rooms – yet it's larger than many New York City apartments. A plush king bed anchors the room, flanked by elegant nightstands. A comfortable armchair and a work-friendly table with two chairs provide distinct spaces for relaxation and productivity.
The ground-floor location offers a spectacular perk: a generous private patio accessing the main grounds, just steps from the pool. This outdoor space proved perfect for working in Morocco's pleasant climate – warm sun balanced by cool breezes.
Inside, the complimentary mini-bar (non-alcoholic) is restocked daily, ensuring fresh refreshments are always at hand.
The bathroom is where this suite truly shines. Full marble finishes create an atmosphere of absolute luxury. A dedicated vanity area includes makeup mirrors and seating, while a cleverly designed closet features a sliding mirror panel and in-room safe.
High-tech amenities abound: a motion-activated Japanese toilet with heated seat, dual marble vanities stocked with Le Labo products, and heated towel racks (though these proved somewhat puzzling to operate).
The shower deserves special mention – a circular water feature takes center stage, but the real showstopper is the full window overlooking a private courtyard. At night, thoughtful lighting transforms this space into a serene backdrop for evening ablutions, at least until the steam fogs up the glass.
The Park Hyatt Marrakech's grounds are nothing short of spectacular, even if the motel-style layout requires brief outdoor walks between venues – a minor consideration during chilly Moroccan nights.
The lobby sets an impressive tone with its modern-library aesthetic, featuring mismatched wood panels and abundant comfortable seating. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the centerpiece view: a stunning main pool backdropped by the majestic Atlas Mountains. This vista is particularly breathtaking during sunrise and sunset, when the mountains emerge from their daily shroud of dust and fog.
The adult-only main pool area offers a refined escape, with attentive staff providing towel service and taking orders from the Mediterranean restaurant. Families aren't forgotten – a separate pool caters to younger guests until its 5 PM closing time, complete with dedicated supervision.
A two-minute stroll from the pool leads to the spa complex, housing an impressive array of wellness facilities.
The space includes a fully-equipped gym, dedicated yoga and cardio rooms, and an indoor pool and jacuzzi area.
The latter features a mesmerizing star-lit ceiling and sweeping views of the adjacent Al Madeen golf course. Plush day beds provide perfect post-swim relaxation spots, though guests should note the marble floors can be quite slippery when wet.
The spa's locker rooms deserve special mention, each featuring a traditional hammam – a quintessentially Moroccan touch that adds authentic local flavor to the wellness experience.
While the prestigious Al Madeen golf course borders the property and provides stunning views, it operates independently from the resort. Guests interested in playing should inquire about access and potential resort guest rates at the concierge desk.
A personal tip: make time for both sunrise and sunset viewing from the main lobby. These moments offer the clearest views of the Atlas Mountains and transform the already stunning property into something truly magical.
The Park Hyatt Marrakech houses two dining establishments, and a full-service bar: TFAYA, specializing in Arabic and Moroccan cuisine, and Le Pavillon, offering Mediterranean fare. While the settings are undeniably elegant, the culinary execution leaves room for improvement.
TFAYA, the property's signature restaurant, unfortunately falls short of expectations. The Chicken Tajine, which should be a showcase of traditional Moroccan spices and cooking techniques, arrived with a disappointing rubber-like texture and surprisingly muted flavors – a letdown for a dish that promises authentic local cuisine.
Breakfast, served daily at TFAYA and included with Globalist benefits, presents a solid if unremarkable spread. The buffet offers standard international breakfast fare, complemented by made-to-order eggs, omelets, and various breakfast classics like waffles, pancakes, and French toast.
However, there is one standout element at breakfast that deserves special mention: the orange juice. Morocco is renowned for its citrus, and the juice here lives up to that reputation, offering a bright spot in an otherwise adequate morning dining experience.
A dining tip: Given the hotel's location outside the city center, it's worth planning some meals in the Medina to experience Marrakech's more authentic and vibrant culinary scene. The concierge can arrange transportation and reservations at some of the city's standout restaurants.
Service at the Park Hyatt Marrakech exemplifies traditional Moroccan hospitality – warm, attentive, and consistently professional. Despite the minor Guest of Honor certificate confusion at check-in, the staff's commitment to guest satisfaction was evident throughout my stay.
Daily housekeeping maintained immaculate standards, with evening turndown service arriving around 9:30 PM. While this timing might be slightly late for some guests' preferences, the attention to detail was impressive – from perfectly positioned slippers to thoughtfully placed floor towels and fresh water service.
The property's true service star is the concierge team, who lived up to their stellar reputation. Having already explored the Medina during my previous stay, I was eager to discover Morocco's countryside. The concierge arranged what turned out to be an unforgettable experience: a private three-hour Atlas Mountains tour with an exceptionally knowledgeable local guide.
This tour transcended typical tourist experiences. Our guide, arranged through the hotel, shared deep insights into the region's geography, the rich culture of the Berber people, and Morocco's fascinating historical and political landscape. The experience reached its pinnacle when he invited us into his home for lunch – the kind of authentic cultural exchange that transforms a good vacation into an unforgettable journey.
The success of this excursion perfectly demonstrates the concierge team's ability to understand guest preferences and create meaningful experiences that go beyond standard tourist offerings. For travelers looking to explore beyond Marrakech's well-trodden paths, the concierge desk should be your first stop.
The Park Hyatt Marrakech participates in World of Hyatt, currently one of the most rewarding hotel loyalty programs in the industry. The program operates on a straightforward category-based award chart, with each property offering three pricing tiers: peak, standard, and off-peak.
As a Category 7 property, the Park Hyatt Marrakech's award rates are:
For my January stay – surprisingly coded as standard season despite being shoulder season – I redeemed 30,000 points per night. The total came to 90,000 World of Hyatt points for three nights, which I transferred from Chase Ultimate Rewards at a 1:1 ratio.
At the time of booking, the One King Bed room commanded a cash rate of $451.45 per night ($1,354.35 total). This meant my points redemption yielded about 1.5 cents per point – a respectable, if not remarkable, value proposition.
Thanks to my friend's generous Guest of Honor certificate, I enjoyed an upgrade to the Park Suite, significantly enhancing the value of my stay. This certificate allows Hyatt Globalist members to extend their top-tier benefits to friends and family, including potential suite upgrades and complimentary breakfast.
A booking tip: Keep an eye on seasonal patterns. Despite January being shoulder season, my dates weren't coded as off-peak. Flexible travelers might find better point values during true off-peak periods.
The Park Hyatt Marrakech represents an intriguing addition to Morocco's luxury hotel landscape. While its location 20 minutes from the Medina might deter some travelers, the property offers a sophisticated retreat that masterfully balances modern luxury with authentic Moroccan elements.
The hotel's greatest strengths lie in its stunning design, impeccable grounds, and remarkable Atlas Mountain views. The rooms – both standard and suites – showcase thoughtful attention to detail, with the bathrooms being particular highlights. The spa facilities and pools provide welcome sanctuaries after days of exploration.
Service hits the high notes you'd expect from a Park Hyatt, with the concierge team standing out as exceptional. Their ability to arrange authentic experiences, like my memorable Atlas Mountains tour, adds significant value to any stay.
The property's main weakness (besides the location) is its dining program. While adequate, neither restaurant quite reaches the heights you might expect from a luxury property of this caliber. Fortunately, the hotel's proximity to both high-end golf communities and traditional villages means diverse dining options are within reach.
From a points perspective, at 30,000 World of Hyatt points per night for standard dates, the redemption value is solid but not extraordinary. However, the potential for suite upgrades through Globalist status or Guest of Honor certificates can dramatically enhance the value proposition.
This property works best as part of a split stay – combine it with a few nights closer to the medina for the full Marrakech experience. It's ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious base for exploring the Atlas Mountains, those looking to combine cultural experiences with golf, or anyone simply wanting to experience Morocco's sophisticated countryside.
Would I return? Absolutely. Despite minor shortcomings in the dining department, the Park Hyatt Marrakech offers a compelling luxury experience that feels distinctly Moroccan while maintaining the high standards global travelers expect from the brand.
