The palatial La Mamounia is one of those jaw-dropping hotels you think can’t be real — until you get there.

The forged metal doorway opens to a mosaiced paradise, decorating the Andalusian architecture with enamelled tiles in geometric patterns. Marrakech may be famed for its earth tones, but La Mamounia is an expanse of colour, from the rich red tones of the lobby to the horticulture. The 20-acre gardens are punctuated by bright Bougainvillea, orange trees and cacti, giving the nearby Jardin Majorelle a run for its money.

Its location is a huge draw. If you can pull yourself away, it’s a mere 10-minute walk to the Koutoubia Mosque. A short distance but the serenity of the space feels worlds away.

There are four restaurants, aptly named for the cuisine that they serve. Le Morroccain is illuminated by lanterns and candles, giving a soft, warm glow to the proceedings. The three-course menu of signature local dishes and herbs from the hotel’s gardens is enjoyed in cosy private booths. L’Asiatique and L’Italien draw in crowds, while breakfast is dished out buffet-style or a la carte at Le Pavillon de La Piscine. Here you’ll find some of the best pastries outside of France enjoyed against the backdrop of the Murano glass outdoor pool.

Inside the spa, you’ll find another aesthetically pleasing pool, its painted wood ceiling only rivalled by the lattice and tilework below. If you have time — and you should make time — the Hamman ritual is transformational. It may not be the most relaxing treatment, but the ancient practice leaves you restored from head to toe.

La Mamounia brings in serious star power. The hotel has welcomed Bill Clinton, Kate Winslet, Tom Cruise, Priyanka Chopra, Gwyneth Paltrow, Robert Pattinson and Jennifer Aniston, so you’ll be in good company. It has also seen a surge in popularity since Netflix’s Inventing Anna. Yes, this is the very same hotel where notorious con artist Anna Delvey racked up quite the bill in the viral TV series. Signed pictures of the A-list clientele (including Julia Garner who played Delvey) are dotted around the lobby, each praising the establishment for its impeccable service and intricate decor. You will even spot King Charles (then Prince) and Nelson Mandela in the mix.

Winston Churchill, however, is the hotel’s most prized guest, with a petite but opulent bar dedicated to the legendary former PM who spent his last days painting in the garden. After a long weekend at La Mamounia, we can’t say we blame him.