Whether you’re after relaxation or adventure, this resort does it in spectacular style.
Travellers, start your engines. We’re riding a quad bike, bashing through the sand, and have El Jadida’s beaches to the left and the North Atlantic Ocean to the right. If you thought resorts were for snoozing by the sea, think again. Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort Morocco is a blockbuster resort with action-packed activities, dramatic dining and A-list guests.
Kerzner International, which created hospitality hits from Atlantis Resorts to One&Only Resorts, is behind the project. In 2009, the resort opened in showbiz style. The launch party was attended by celebrities including Gerard Butler, Naomi Campbell and Simon and Yasmin Le Bon. On our visit, we spotted a local singer who was visiting with their family.
Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort Morocco is located an 80-minute drive from Casablanca and a 90-minute drive from Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport. We are greeted at the airport by a hotel representative and enjoy a smooth shuttle service.
As we drive up to the resort, it feels like we are entering a royal residence. The fairy tale setting includes castle-like crenellations, flowing fountains, high ceilings, tall pillars and marble floors. Plus, the mashrabiya windows make us feel like a princess, as we gaze over the lush landscapes.
Rooms and suites
Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort Morocco is a sprawling sight which covers 250 hectares. The resort includes 492 rooms and suites and 13 restaurants and bars. We check into the Garden View Room, which spans 44 square metres and includes Arabic paintings, lanterns, a king-size bed, a shower and a bathtub. While the décor feels dated, the view from the floor-to-ceiling windows is timeless.
As the resort is so spread out, it can take time to travel. We order breakfast in the room, but it arrives without cutlery. It takes the staff thirty minutes to go from the restaurant to the room – by which point, we are left with soggy cereal. Tip: dine in the restaurants rather than in the room.
Restaurants and bars
Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort Morocco boasts beautiful restaurants. The bars and lounges include Alias Nightclub, Anis Café and Studio 42. The alfresco restaurants include Al Firma Moroccan Cuisine, Buddha-Bar Beach Restaurant, Beach Barbecue and Oasis Pool. Plus, the restaurants include George, Le Cave Rustic Bistro, Market Place, Mazi Garden, Olives Buffet and Sal De Mer Seafood.
Olives puts on a brilliant breakfast with live stations, lavish spreads and indoor as well as outdoor seating. Mazi Garden is a must – the concept originally opened in Notting Hill, London, and is making its Moroccan debut. The menu includes one of the best Greek Salads we’ve ever tasted. If you want to get the party started, visit the buzzing Sal De Mer. The live band takes requests and sings in Arabic as well as English.
Facilities
Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort Morocco’s spa is a serene spot and is the highlight of our holiday. Located in its own building, it offers traditional Moroccan treatments – a 100 square metre hammam, anyone? The facilities range from a salon to yoga studio, and the services range from facials to massages. Plus, there is a plush pool lined with palm trees.
The resort is also home to an 18-hole golf course, which has been designed by the sporting legend, Gary Player. We jump on a golf cart and admire the Insta-worthy view, from the immaculate lawns to the distant waves.
The animal experiences include camel riding, horse riding and a farm. The thrill-seeking experiences include jet skiing, paddleboarding and surfing. Oh, and, of course, quad biking. Go on, feel the rush.
GO: Visit www.mazaganbeachresort.com for more information.
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