The Great Getaway Medina

The Great Getaway Medina

Experience the romance and mystique of the ancient city of Marrakech with The Great Getaway Medina. Owners Christian and Ina Krug first teamed up with acclaimed German architect Moritz Theden for The Great Getaway Marrakech Hotel & Spa to open on the city outskirts at the end of this year. Their second venture has transformed a traditional Moroccan riad into an intimate six-room hotel for world travelers. Here, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the medina's community, thanks to Ina Krug's close relationships with the locals. Located in the heart of Marrakech's historic Sidi Ben Slimane quarter, the palace has been painstakingly refurbished to preserve its traditional architectural style. It is filled with an elegant mix of exquisite furnishings handmade by local craftsmen from the souk that surrounds the property.
Immediately upon entering the property via the grand circular courtyard with its intricate carvings, flowing sheer white curtains, subdued lighting and star-shaped fountain, guests are enveloped by a sense of warmth and mysticism which is unmistakably Moroccan. The interiors are a celebration of traditional design, from the walls plastered in the silky Tadelakt style to the custom-made furnishings sourced from local artisans and cabinetmakers. The public spaces of the hotel are dotted with intimate alcoves and stone fireplaces, and illuminated by flickering candles and lanterns.

Each of the four deluxe rooms and two suites is named after fragrant scents that linger in the air: lavender, mint, saffron, pomegranate, cinnamon and ginger. The design palette pays tribute to the colors of the city, such as desert sand and Majorelle Blue, the same color chosen by Yves Saint Laurent for his Marrakech house. Room with a View For all the splendor of the property's interiors, perhaps the most captivating space of all is to be found on the rooftop. The Great Getaway Medina boasts a terrace where white sun loungers provide the perfect perch from which to drink in the panoramic views over the Koutoubia Mosque and surrounding Atlas Mountains. In the evening guests are invited to indulge in homemade Moroccan delicacies to the backdrop of the magnificent sunsets for which Marrakech is famed.

Welcome to the Neighborhood
Since moving to Marrakech, Ina Krug has cultivated strong friendships with many of the local tradesmen and souk owners and is thus perfectly positioned to offer truly authentic experiences. She works exclusively with handpicked local guides in order to provide her guests with an unparalleled glimpse into the real Marrakech, far removed from the standard tourist fare. From bargain hunting in hidden spots of the souk to motorbike tours in the Atlas Mountains, The Great Getaway Medina offers a level of personal service which leaves no wish unfulfilled.

Location and rates
The Great Getaway Medina has a prime location that enables guests to lose themselves in the historic, winding alleyways of the souks. The Marrakech Museum, Jeema El Fna Square and the Koutoubia Mosque are all within walking distance.
Rates range from EUR 150 o 210.
www.designhotels.com/the_great_getaway_medina
www.madebyoriginals.com/stories/medinas-souks