Morocco's Selman Marrakech has an unusual yet magnificent equine distinction.
Arabian Knights
The Atlas Mountains grace northern Africa the way a crown sits atop a head. Their westernmost reaches can be found in Morocco and, if you follow them all the way west, you will reach the Atlantic Ocean. Follow them eastwards into the country's interior and you can ski on snow-capped peaks.
On a fine day, you can see them from Marrakech with the naked eye. If you leave the city behind you and head in their direction, still close to the ancient 'Ochre City' but away from the frenetic bustle of modern life, you will find the Selman Marrakech.
Those who visit a palatial luxury hotel with accordingly high expectations will find them met. The beautiful gardens and Chenot Spa encourage relaxation, while the choice of four restaurants provides connoisseurs with the entertaining dilemma of deciding which one to try first. The heart of Marrakech itself, with its centuries of history, world-famous souks, cultural icons such as the Medina Quarter and museums that showcase the city's golden age, is within easy reach. But what makes this place truly exceptional, even by the standards of modern luxury hotels, is that it is the home to Marrakech's School of Equestrian Arts.
Morocco has been home to fine horses since Arabian thoroughbreds were first imported back in the 7th century and the Berber and Arab-Berber breeds have long been much-loved national symbols. Drawing on this heritage, the School of Equestrian Arts trains young Moroccans in acrobatics, classical dressage and liberty, hosts a breeding programme that has already created internationally acclaimed horses and offers the hotel's guests the opportunity to be a part of the ongoing story of the horse in Morocco too.
Guests at the Selman Marrakech can see this newest generation of Morocco's equestrian tradition train under renowned instructors, tour the school's Andalucian-style stables which were designed by the celebrated French architect Jacques Garcia and even enjoy a leisurely brunch while watching the weekly parade at Le Pavilion every Sunday. As a compelling indication of just how strong the equestrian connection is, the hotel itself was even named in honour of the sire of a purebred line.
This endlessly fascinating city that has captured imaginations for centuries now has a new jewel in its crown and the latest chapter of a story that began more than a millennium ago is being written here. Even those with no equestrian knowledge will surely be impressed by the Selman Marrakech, while those that have will find themselves in an equine paradise.
To find out more, please contact the ACS Travel and Concierge team on +44 (0) 20 8335 7070 or travel@aircharterservice.com.