With an award winning beach, rave reviews and a reputation for excellence, Lauren Omahen discovers Mazagan Beach Resort is the epitome of Moroccan luxury and the go-to destination for an exotic vacation
Envisage lush gardens and picturesque villas, the crash of water as it meets the beach, the scent of jasmine tingling the senses. Picture swimming pools surrounded by palm trees, with parasols providing soothing shade from the sun. Ranked the top hotel in Morocco by Voyages & Hotels de Reve, Mazagan Beach Resort won the organisation’s Oscar for best location in 2010, its beach rated the ninth most beautiful in the world by French daily La Nouvelle Tribune.
NATURAL BEAUTY
“The real treat lies just beyond the resort’s walls in the natural beauty of the land”
Surrounded by striking Moorish architecture, arches adorned with intricate geometric shapes leading to roomy courtyards dressed with flowers and mosaic tile fountains, guests are instantly put at ease by friendly and attentive staff. The resort’s 500 rooms and suites are vibrant with colour, contemporarily furnished in traditional dark wood, and equipped with generous bathrooms, each with a full size tub as well as a walk-in shower. The roomy accommodation offers spectacular views across the Atlantic Ocean, overlooking lagoons, a golf course, patio, pool and gardens. Boasting 11 bars and restaurants, spa, nightclub, and casino, it is easy to understand why Mazagan is considered Morocco’s finest luxury getaway. But the real treat lies just beyond the resort’s walls in the natural beauty of the land.
Located 90 km south of Casablanca by the ocean, Mazagan is completely secluded. A chain of hotels and a slew of tourists surround most vacation hot spots, but Mazagan is its own oasis on a beach that stretches for miles. For those looking to escape the stress of overcrowded destinations, look no further than this Moroccan gem.
ECO-FRIENDLY
Adventure enthusiasts will rejoice at the selection of water sports and other outdoor activities including horse riding, camel riding, quad biking, and mountain biking. If a relaxing round of golf sounds more appealing, the 18-hole golf course overlooking the ocean is challenging as well as eco-friendly. Designed by Gary Player, the South African golfer and eco-enthusiast, it is built on the natural contours of the land and features Platinum Paspalum grass that thrives on salt water. Player ensured that existing dunes and vegetation of were maintained in their natural state during the construction of the course. The golf course is not the only green initiative at Mazagan: more than 2,308 trees and 1,324 palm trees have been planted, and developers continue to add greenery to the grounds.
For some serious pampering, try an afternoon at the resort’s spa to rejuvenate mind, body and soul. The Mazagan Signature Treatment combines ESPA therapy techniques with Moroccan nourishing oils and mineral-enriched mud for the ultimate experience. And really, what could be better than indulging in a spa treatment while gazing at the sandy beach and crystal clear water?
A variety of packages start at the equivalent of ¤182 per night for a king size room, including breakfast for two adults and two children, free airport transfers, free access to three Kids’ Clubs, and free access to the casino and night-club. Full board packages are also available, and suites range from ¤1,832 to ¤3,683 per night. Check the website for current special offers. www.mazaganbeachresort.com www.espaonline.com
