Talk about Morocco and visions of bustling markets or ornate riads come to mind. But Morocco is the product of many countries and cultures coming together. Yes, it may be a gateway into Africa, but positioned on the edge of the continent, Morocco is also only over the water from Gibraltar and Spain, making it a great alternative to your Europe holiday.
As you go further south into the country, it becomes more and more Saharan, more and more Arabic. The north, in areas like Tamouda Bay, still feels its European neighbours' influence - just without the crowds. A holiday to Morocco has the same ease as Europe, with a short flight time and no time difference, but you get to enjoy quieter beaches and a new culture.
Just like its sister hotels, Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay is an exceptional stay, but more than that, it's the perfect example of every benefit of this hidden gem destination. It still has the 'classic but with a modern twist' of the legendary Royal Mansour collection, but each property is an experience in itself, and this is certainly a remarkable one. Here's what impressed me most during my stay.
Royal Mansour's Attention to Detail is Unmatched
Every little thing about this hotel is done with luxury in mind. Yes, that includes the service which is intuitive - there is nothing to teach the staff here. The staff always prioritises guests, whether they select the magazines in your room based on your interests or beautifully present your in-villa dining. But the detail goes way beyond the service too.
The interior design incorporates 90,000 real shells, immediately introducing the serenity of its beach location. The uniform of the staff differs between each member of the collection, and Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay's uniform steps away from suits and towards a lighter, neutral styling that reflects the leisurely luxury here.
It even goes down to the detail of the crockery at each restaurant - modern simplicity for the French restaurant but Mother of Peal plates that would make any mermaid jealous at Mediterranee on the beach.
![Bread and salsa on pearlescent plates with blue water glasses]()
La Mediterranee lunch
![Staff member dressed in neutral linen uniform with Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay luggage cart]()
Staff at Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay
There are Michelin-Star Chefs Behind All the Restaurants at Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay
There are four restaurants at Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay, plus Alboran Club, the lounge bar. Behind each of these four restaurants is a Michelin-recognised chef, which is quite incredible in any sense but particularly so in such a quiet destination. Even as I came back, I had to check this was right, as I couldn't quite believe it!
Coccinella brings Italian delights to the north of Morocco. There's an impressive dining experience here where you have a pasta presentation and you can pick your olive oil to go with it. The Alajmo brothers are at the helm, crafting a modern Italian menu with a slight local twist. Massimiliano Alajmo is particularly world-renowned for being the youngest three-Michelin-starred chef.
The French restaurant, La Table, is very chic. You have sea views and a 'classic luxury' setting, but also an incredible menu exclusive to Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay by Eric Frechon. He is a master of his craft, quite literally as he has earned the Meilleur Ouvrier de France title, as well as three Michelin stars.
The most relaxed dining option is Pool Beach, aptly named due to it being right in the middle of the two. The variety of dishes and light bites here is tempting enough, but knowing three-Michelin-star chef Quique Dacosta created them makes them even more so.
My favourite though had to be Mediterranee. We had a table on the sand with amazing sea views, plus those pearlescent plates really were impressive. Also helmed by Quique Dacosta, this is where he truly brings his Spanish specialities and the expertise of his three Michelin stars to the beachfront of Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay. The paella here was so so good, you have to give it a try!
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Pool Beach
The Hotel is a Highlight of the Destination, Rather Than an Addition
Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay is the perfect choice for a relaxed holiday. It's sure to spoil those looking to switch off with exceptional service. There may not be much to do outside of the hotel, but that only places more focus the pure indulgence within it.
The beach is beautiful and benefits from Mediterranean waters and a drinks and snacks service so you can while away days there. The spa is glorious - 4,500ft² which covers both traditional spa treatments and more wellness treatments like cryotherapy. It does seem to have more of an adult feel because of how high-end its facilities and services are, but families are welcome, with a lovely complimentary kids' club.
Even when venturing out into the surrounding area, I'd absolutely recommend doing it with a guide through the hotel. The nearest town is Tetouan, a real melting pot of Islamic, European, and Jewish culture, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking around the winding roads and the bustling markets of the Medina was an insightful experience, but I was grateful to the guide who not only taught us about the history but navigated us through the liveliness.
![Beige outdoor furniture under red sun umbrella, with sea in background]()
Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay area views
![A walkway between white buildings, connected by a pergola draped with pink flowers]()
Tetouan local town
I recommend...
There is now a very plush high-speed train that goes from Casablanca to Tangia in just a couple of hours. I spent a few nights in Casablanca first, staying at the Royal Mansour there, and I think it's the perfect way to a Morocco holiday.
You get to experience a bit more of the Moroccan culture (make sure to visit the mosque in Casablanca!) but it also gives you more options for flights. Then it's only about an hour and a half transfer from Tangia to Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay.