The hype
Reviewers are universally obsessed with the architecture, the horses, and the 'spotless' maintenance, calling it a true palace experience.
Selman Marrakech
$470-800+/ night
Book this if You want a maximalist 'Arabian Nights' fantasy where thoroughbred horses live better than most humans and the pool is the length of a football field.
Why People Love It
- The Jacques Garcia design is unapologetically opulent (think purple velvet, zellige tiles, and chandeliers in the stables)
- The 80-meter infinity pool is one of the most Instagrammed spots in Marrakech
- The resident Arabian thoroughbreds perform during Sunday brunch and roam the paddocks
Quick Take: It is a self-contained palace bubble 15 minutes outside the city, so you will be taking taxis or the shuttle for every single Medina excursion.
Reviewed by @sabrinachakici: I felt like absolute royalty here. The pool is endless and so peaceful, but my favorite part was definitely visiting the stables to see the Arabian horses. The architecture is stunning—every corner is a photo op. It’s a splurge, but totally worth it for the vibe.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Service can be 'relaxed' (slow) at the pool and restaurants, and the distance from the Medina frustrates those who want to explore spontaneously.
- You are an equestrian lover or design aficionado
- You want a 'resort' feel where you can stay on property for days without getting bored
- You are looking for a serious detox (the Chenot Spa is world-famous and intense)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Immaculate. Twice-daily service with turndown. Reviews consistently praise the 'spotless' condition.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Marble and zellige tiles are kept in perfect condition. No mold or grout issues found in searches.
- Maintenance: Excellent. The property is relatively new (2012) and maintained to a 'palace' standard.
- Linens & towels: High thread count, crisp, and fresh. No reports of stains or wear.
- Odors & scents: Strong signature amber/oud scent throughout the property. Fresh, but potent.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Music from the SABO restaurant or bar in the evenings
- Faint road noise in entry-level rooms facing the Route d'Amizmiz
Before you book
Good to know
- There is a free shuttle to the Medina twice a day (morning and late afternoon) — use it to save on taxis.
- Tourist tax is ~25-30 MAD ($3) per person/night, usually payable at checkout.
- The 'Chenot' spa creates a serious detox environment; expect 'no pain no gain' treatments like powerful hydro-jet hose-downs.
What to pack
- Dressy casual outfits for dinner — shorts are frowned upon in the evening restaurants
- Earplugs if you are sensitive to the 'festive' dining music or the call to prayer (though distant)
- Swimsuit for the spa even in winter (the indoor pool is the warmest spot)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Deluxe Premier Room (Pool View) — guarantees the iconic view of the 80m pool and gardens
- Villa — for total privacy and your own heated pool (where Tom Cruise reportedly stayed)
Rooms to avoid
- Superior Rooms — often face the 'countryside' (road side) rather than the lush interior gardens
- Ground floor rooms near the main restaurant if you are a light sleeper (dinner music)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on an upper floor facing the main pool (Deluxe Premier category) to fully enjoy the Jacques Garcia gardens. Please ensure it is away from the SABO restaurant ventilation/music if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the main pool heated?
No, the iconic 80m outdoor pool is generally unheated and can be very cold in winter. The spa has a heated indoor pool and smaller heated outdoor relaxation pools.
How far is it from the Medina?
It is about 10-15 minutes by car (taxi or shuttle) to Jemaa el-Fnaa. It is not walkable.
Is breakfast included?
Usually not in the base rate. The buffet costs around 420 MAD (~$42) per person if purchased separately.
Can I see the horses if I don't ride?
Yes! They parade during the Sunday brunch, and you can visit the Jacques Garcia-designed stables (with chandeliers!) anytime.
Is it kid-friendly?
Surprisingly yes. There is a Kids Club (ages 4-12) with activities, though the overall vibe is very adult and sophisticated.
Is there alcohol?
Yes, there are multiple bars and restaurants serving alcohol, including a poolside bar and the Selman Bar.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book a table at Assyl for dinner even if you aren't staying — the walk to the restaurant along the lit-up 80m pool is magical.
- ✨
Ask the concierge for the 'shuttle schedule' immediately upon arrival; it's not always advertised but saves you $15-20 per trip.
- ✨
If the main pool is too cold, buy a day pass or treatment at the Chenot Spa to access the warm indoor pool.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'hose-down' treatment at the spa is intense — literally a high-pressure water jet aimed at you.
💡The hotel scent (amber/oud) is pumped in heavily; you will smell like it when you leave.
💡You can't just 'walk' to a nearby cafe; the road outside is a highway.
💡The stables have chandeliers that are nicer than the light fixtures in most people's homes.
💡Sunday Brunch is a major local social event — expect it to be busy with non-hotel guests.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Selman Marrakech is located and what's nearby.