The waves of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the jagged shoreline of Rabat Corniche are the soothing soundtrack that accompanies the setting of the sun on the Moroccan capital, for another day. Locals stroll languidly along the promenade, while others take a rest upon a green patch overlooking the water. I have the perfect view from my kaleidoscopic balcony at the Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr.
I could sit here all day upon the bottled green, mosaic-floored balcony, replete with a wonderfully multi-coloured table and chair set, just watching the Rabati go about their daily business, with the ocean’s rhythms as the musical accompaniment. However, with night falling, my grumbling stomach demands that I leave this scene for tomorrow and I retreat into my suite to get ready for the evening ahead.
Originally built in the 18th century as a summer residence for Sultan Moulay Slimane, Kasr Al Bahr – the Palace by the Sea – has played a vital role in Rabat’s rich history, not only as a place of relaxation for Moroccan royals, but also a famed military hospital. And while the soldiers and doctors have left, the palatial glamour and luxury remains very much in situ, with the Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts’ opulent touches found throughout the sprawling complex. Home to 11 buildings and 200 guestrooms and suites, I hang my hat for my stay at the Four Seasons Executive Suite.
Spread out of 70 square-metres, interiors showcase Moroccan-inspired designs, combined with state-of-the art technology. Situated on the fourth floor, the suite is divided into sizeable living room, a cosy bedroom and a huge bathroom. Once my private, in-suite check-in is complete, I explore my new home for the next couple of nights, happily munching on the welcome amenities that are presented in traditional tagine bowls. The living room features a L-shaped sofa from where I relax in the evening in front of the ginormous HD television. There’s also a drinks cabinet (more like a wardrobe), packed full of treats, soft and alcoholic beverages should one feel inclined for a nightcap and nibble.
In the bedroom, crisp, white linens adorn a large bed and probably some of the softest pillows to which my head has ever been introduced. The Moroccan bedside lamps that come in red, silver and gold metallic coverings add a pop of colour to the neutral palette room alongside a bouquet of pink-petalled flowers. There is also another large television and an iPad that allows you to contact guest services, 24-hours-a-day with any request. The marble-clad bathroom is impressive. Think double-vanity sinks, a deep bathtub and a huge rainfall shower, all complemented by luxurious Diptyque amenities.
All ready to go, I make my way down for dinner. For gourmands, Senior Executive Chef Sebastiano Spriveri has curated a plethora of enticing plates and flavours to tease tastebuds. Signature Brasserie Marie is all about French bistro favourites. There is a strong emphasis on seafood here, but it would be remiss not to sample the exquisite onion soup – the best I’ve ever had – and the melt-in-the-mouth Le Boeuf Limousin. Make sure you pair your meal with a bottle of locally produced wine and while inside offers a gorgeous setting, it is impossible to resist the outside terrace and the jet-black skies, punctuated by bright stars. To conclude the evening, I enjoy a superbly crafted cocktail and some melodic beats at the stylish Bar Atlantique.
In the morning, I manage to resist the temptation to stay in the all-encompassing comfort of my bed and head for breakfast at the vibrant Flamme. Serving an à la carte menu, the restaurant is the place to be when lunchtime rolls around, where it is advisable to indulge in the Moroccan main courses of an assortment of tagines. For a spot of afternoon tea and Moroccan sweet bites, head to Noora and place yourself in the most stunning of settings. With verdant plants, white-washed floors and colonnades and a trickling water fountain, all bathed in natural light, it is the place for those wanting the perfect pic.
With cravings taken care of, the property is teeming with activities to enjoy. I take a stroll among the picturesque gardens and its historical buildings. There’s even an opportunity to get a glimpse at what will be the property’s crème de la crème offering, the riad, an exclusive home with a courtyard and the soon to be opened spa that will showcase a beauty salon, an enormous indoor pool and 10 treatment rooms, where you can indulge in blissful sessions including the legendary Moroccan hammam. There are two pools - resort-style and ocean-view infinity – however, Rabat’s winter temperatures are not best suited to lounging around in a swimsuit so I get creative with a Fait Main workshop, where I design my own babouche slippers.
When it’s time to explore the city, Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr is perfectly located for those in search of adventure. We explore the splendid Kasbah of the Udayas, the bustling Old Market, the white-washed walls of the Old Medina and the tranquil surrounds of the Chellah Necropolis, all of which are within a short drive from the property. Closer to home, it is highly recommended to go for an exhilarating walk on the corniche to experience the refreshing sea breeze.
I spend the rest of my time flitting between the idyllic interiors of the lobby and my balcony, drinking in those dreamy ocean views. Oh, how I will miss this Moroccan majesty.
