Hotels with world-class art collections that let you skip the gallery.
Behind an unassuming doorway in the heart of the bustling Marrakesh medina, El Fenn is an art-filled boutique hotel centred round a lush sun-bathed courtyard. Gracing the jewel- coloured walls is an impressive collection of works by the likes of Bridget Riley, Fred Pollock and Hassan Hajjaj, all part of former gallerist and co-owner Vanessa Branson’s extensive private art collection. The 28-room property underwent a full refurbishment last year and the results are spectacular; a unique blend of Moorish architecture and modern design, the richly decorated rooms feature kilim covered beds, vivid tadelakt bathrooms and hand carved ceilings. In the courtyard, two Carrara marble-lined pools are surrounded by day-beds and a fire-pit, while the rooftop boasts a third pool, Berber-tented lounging area and some of the best views in town, including of the Atlas mountains.
MARRAKESH, MOROCCO El Fenn
Words by Laura Brown for Harper’s Bazaar Arabia – Interiors