The bustling imperial city of Marrakech sets the backdrop for a sensory experience for guests lucky enough to rest their weary heads in one of the five exclusive suites at the AnaYela Hotel. Hotel patrons can slip off sand-covered sandals, shake out crushed linen pants in utter style and relax in luxurious comfort. The 300-year-old palace was once home to a girl named Yela (the hotel’s namesake) and her story and spirit provide inspiration for the hotel’s authentic character. The former resident’s personal and romantic diary was discovered in a secret hideaway within the palace, and her story is embossed onto the hotel’s walls in artistic silver calligraphy, whispering secrets and desires to guests as they walk through the historic hallways.Each individual tile, brick and ornament in the boutique hotel pays homage to previous generations of Moroccan artisans. The palace’s restoration was completed entirely by hand, without the modern perks of any electric tools. Guests can escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakech in the heated pool adorning the traditional open-air courtyard, whilst savouring the wafting scents of traditional barbecued meats slowly cooking on an open fire. Visitors to AnaYela can catch glimpses of the stars from underneath an authentic Saharan nomadic tent, and take in the sweeping views from the one of the city’s highest vantage points, the Flying Carpet Terrace Tower.
