The Beldi is one of the places that I adore most in all the world (well, of the world that I’ve so far seen). It’s part hotel and part public pool, spa and restaurant. For my thoughts on the hotel, go here.
The property is designed in the style of a traditional Berber village, set amidst fields of roses and olive groves. There are two big pools (as well as a small children’s pool), a spa and a poolside restaurant in the welcome shade of the trees. In addition, there is a souk where you can buy beautiful, quality items, as well as see some items being made.
The Beldi is French-owned and this is reflected in the lunch menu, which offers a mix of Moroccan, French and more international dishes. For many, who may have lived on tagine for the entirety of their trip, this can be a welcome change. The menu, whilst always different, generally follows a similar pattern:
The food, if not brilliant, is always pretty good and I don’t think that I’ve ever had a dud meal. This was my last meal there: lentil and quinoa salad, grilled sole and Paris-Brest (a choux pastry and praline cream dessert).
Located about a 10 minute drive from the city and less than that from the airport, I recommend it as the ideal way to spend your last day: check out of your riad/hotel, spend the day by the pool, wander the fabulous grounds (or treat yourself in the spa), and enjoy a lovely lunch under the olive trees. After a few days in the city this is THE ideal way to relax. Then take a quick shower and head straight to the airport.
To spend a day here (pool access and towels) is 200dh (£17) and a 3-course lunch is 290dh (£25) with drinks extra (but reasonably priced).
I know that some may consider it a bit shabby around the edges, I say that it’s exquisitely rustic. Some may consider the service to be a little slapdash (I’ve been there maybe 20 times, sometimes it’s spot on, sometimes you feel as though you’re never going to get that drink!), I consider it ‘relaxed’. Some may prefer the over-the-top luxury of the big resorts, I absolutely prefer the casual elegance of the Beldi. Horses for courses, I guess, but I’d live there if I could. I think it’s perfect.
Beldi Country Club
Km 6, Route de Barrage.
“Cherifia” Marrakech
Morocco
+ 212 5 24 38 39 50 / + 212 6 79 89 26 07
Marion in Morocco 