ESCAPING INTO A PEACEFUL PARADISE, ALSO KNOWN AS AMANJENA
words by ELIANA CASA
Surreal may come across as an understatement when describing Amanjena, in Morocco. When arriving at the hotel, you might have the feeling of stepping into a peaceful paradise - fitting, given that the name ‘Amanjena’ translates to just that. Located on the outskirts of Marrakech, the hotel offers a tranquil escape, just a short distance from the vibrant energy of the city’s UNESCO-protected core.
The pisé-walled resort is part of the Aman family, one of the world’s most luxurious hotel chains. It comes as no surprise that our Editor-in-Chief Timotej Letonja confirmed Amanjena is no exception, but rather a reassuring example of the brand's excellence. Founded in 1988, Aman was created with the vision of offering a collection of intimate retreats, each infused with the warm, understated hospitality of a private home. And as you step beyond the resort’s walls, that same welcoming atmosphere envelops you immediately.
A WARM WELCOME
Enchanted by the fragrance of olive trees and palms, the vibrant hues of the ‘Red City’ are mirrored in the 40 guest Pavilions and Maisons, radiating the elegance and tranquility of a sultan’s residence. Luckily enough, Timotej found himself exploring the villas, contrasted by the cold tones of the fountain’s green marbles and the rich colours of the private gardens, overlooking the magnificent Atlas Mountains.
Timotej was greeted with dates, tea, and traditional music performances, setting the perfect tone for his stay. He remarked, “Amanjena is all about the essence of experience—you’ll feel as though you never want to leave, as time slows down and every detail is crafted for complete relaxation and a deeper connection with the surroundings.” Beneath the vast desert sky, a jade bassin reflects the serenity, while chiffon curtains gently sway over the pink columns. Amanjena is a place that engages all your senses.
EXPLORE MARRAKECH BEYOND THE TOURIST TRAIL
At Amanjena, boredom is simply not an option. With an array of activities to choose from, guests can explore the vibrant Medina, visit the iconic Djemaa el-Fna Square, or wander through the historic palaces, lush gardens, and artisan shops of Marrakech. Timotej stepped out of the serene comfort of his Maison to embark on a day trip, immersing himself in the captivating sights of Medina. Afterward, a personalized tennis lesson with an expert instructor was arranged just for him, channeling some ‘Challengers’ energy. Whether you're craving an adventurous exploration or a peaceful retreat, every moment at Amanjena is meticulously crafted to offer unparalleled comfort and sophistication.
A WORLD OF UNIQUE EXPERIENCES AND LUXURIOUS TREATMENTS
Morocco’s reputation for exquisite cuisine is well-earned, and Timotej immersed himself in the experience at Amanjena's Japanese Grill. Specializing in Washoku, a UNESCO-recognized culinary tradition celebrated for its cultural significance, artistry, and sustainable use of natural resources, the restaurant offers an authentic taste of Japan. At the heart of the dining experience is a charcoal-powered robata grill, where skilled chefs bring to life the rich flavors and techniques of Japanese cooking. But the culinary delights don’t end there. Amanjena’s restaurant offers two distinct menus: one celebrates the flavors of Italy, while the other offers a deep dive into traditional Moroccan cuisine, crafted with age-old techniques.
Amanjena’s commitment to providing a private, intimate stay is unmatched, offering guests the ultimate in privacy and luxury. Its serene spa, inspired by the ancient healing traditions of North Africa, offers a tranquil sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. A key aspect of the region's preventive medicine are the cleansing rituals,SAGE such as steam cleansing and exfoliating massages in the traditional hammam. Timotej enjoyed these soothing treatments designed to restore balance, revitalize the body, and enhance immunity. Signature offerings like the Qasr Hammam, a luxurious full-body hammam experience, and the Body Mask, using Moroccan herbs and spices to hydrate the skin, are among the highlights. Another standout is the Aman Advanced Facial, a 60-minute treatment that combines exfoliation and manual lifting techniques to improve skin texture and stimulate facial muscles.
As Timotej’s journey at Amanjena comes to an end, it’s clear that this sanctuary in the heart of Morocco offers more than just luxury—it provides a transformative experience that touches every sense, restores the body, and nurtures the soul.
photography AMANJENA