Dream in Fez

The new Hotel Sahrai serves as a chic refuge from the Moroccan city of Fez’s old Medina, the city’s bustling center. Perched in the hills overlooking the Medina, Hotel Sahrai opened in June by the owners of the local Riad Fes. Fez is considered the country’s intellectual and spiritual capital and was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981, but you couldn’t find a luxury 5-star hotel anywhere near the heart of Fez- think La Mamounia in Marrakesh- until now. The visual richness of the Sahrai comes from the quality of the raw materials used to build the hotel and a respect for the principals of classic Arabic domestic architecture.

The interiors of the 50-room property were conceived by Paris-based designer Christophe Pillet, one of the hottest designers in France. The hotel’s modern rooms and suites are appointed with exquisite glass-walled bathrooms and lush fabrics in soft shades and textures. Arabesque patterns are carved into the walls, and enfilades of arched pavilions lead through atmospheric public spaces. There are stunning views of the historic cityscape and the Atlas mountains from the teak deck around the outdoor pool, rooftop bar and lounge bar, where there’s often a DJ at night. Additional amenities include a luxurious Givenchy spa- offering Moroccan and European treatments- both indoor and outdoor pools, a hammam and gym, and two restaurants. Although I’ve been to Fez, I will dream in Fez again someday. Hopefully at Hotel Sahrai.  www.hotelsahrai.com