Dar Aviwen

Frommer's Review

Jacques Abtan built this family villa out in the oasislike palmeraie in 1983, but once the kids moved out, he opened up his "House of Palm Trees" to the public and now presides with son Stéphane over one of the best accommodations in Marrakech. The villa is set amongst 2 hectares (5 acres) of beautiful gardens, where guests will likely come across tortoises, guinea fowl, and Jacques (tending to his beloved plants) on their morning stroll -- you may even be treated to an impromptu botany lesson. The grand Moorish villa is spacious and generously decorated with Jacques's other passion -- early-20th-century Moroccan antiques and protectorate-era paraphernalia. The rooms (all suites) are lavishly decorated and have large bathrooms, even larger bedrooms, and a separate lounge area with a home-entertainment system. Some also come with a fireplace. The larger Pavilion Romane, out in the garden, is ideal for small families.

Guests can spend time in the marble hammam and book massages and beauty treatments, or else lounge by the heated pool, which is surrounded by a lush green lawn. Dar Ayniwen's best-kept secret is its cuisine, which you can enjoy anywhere on the property, including your room, keeping with the Abtans' philosophy of attentive service in an unobtrusive style. Dar Ayniwen is a 10- to 15-minute drive from Jemaa el Fna, and a free shuttle service is available at any time of day or night (just be sure to give them advance warning).

Facilities:
Restaurant; pool; hammam; concierge; room service; babysitting; library

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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