I keep hearing about the trend on rural eco-escapes in Morocco that have popped up in the past few years, so I had to do a little research and share a really special place with you. Located only 6km from Marrakech, Beldi Country Club feels like a million miles away from the dusty chaos of the medina. And while some holidays just aren't as peaceful and unwinding as we might hope for, this sanctuary reminds me of what good old-fashioned holidays should be made of - perfecting the true art of blissing out.
Everything about Beldi is exquisite (tour the property here). Among a botanical wonderland of fragrant rose gardens, the harmonious sound of olive leaves and tall grass fluttering in the breeze, sweet citrus trees, fresh vegetable patches, an oasis of desert cacti and towering palms, hides a discreet ethno-chic 27-room hotel with two great restaurants, three gorgeous pools, tennis courts, a delicious spa for rigorous hammam gommages, and a handful of lovely artisan boutiques, one owned by French interior stylist extraordinaire Corinne Bensimon. I bought some awesome fringe towels for my new apartment from her shop, and a cheery printed nightshirt too cute to pass up.
If I hadn't somehow broken my camera at the farewell dinner at Peacock Pavilions, I would've been able to snap some detailed photos of Beldi. Sadly, these three pictures can hardly do a place this breathtaking any justice, but if you can imagine, if you can squint your eyes just a little and picture it, you might be able to see it, to envision yourself there. Perhaps, I could guide you through it.
The pool (hands down, it's simply the greatest pool I've swum in) is tucked away in an olive grove. It feels remote, organic, but elegant. Then there are the secret gardens to explore; serpentine walkways lend themselves through lush landscape (guaranteed to make any landscape artist drool) and intimate pockets for nice aperitifs and cosy conversation. One pathway leads you to a small cluster of curated showrooms if you're in the mood to buy a little something. But it's the poolside lunches at Beldi's Le Badya that also draw a crowd. By 2 o'clock, dog-ear the juicy novel you can't put down and join the congregation, shuffling their way to the restaurant. If you fancy, order a glass of refreshing vin gris, and watch the waiters dole out the daily specials of grilled sardines or spiced quail with herbs from the garden. It's just so darn delightful, you'll be hard pressed to unclench your newly tanned paws from the lawn chair at closing.
Gold stars across the board, Beldi. You're a keeper.
Beldi Country Club
Km 6, Route du Barrage, "Cherifia" Marrakech Morocco
Tel: 212.(0)524.383.950
(images: linked to its source)