Every step you take in the enchanting country of Morocco unveils a million stories of the land’s ancient tapestry. A country of dazzling diversity, Morocco has epic mountains, rolling deserts and ancient cities, all which come together to welcome travelers with warm hospitality and a glass of mint tea. Morocco’s story starts with expansive deserts and rugged mountains that stretch in tranquil solitude, reserving the commotion for the urban dwellings. One day you could be scaling Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak; the next, you could be strolling the souks of Marrakesh, riding the Atlantic rollers in Essaouira, walking through the twisting blue alleyways of Chefchaouen, or savoring street food in the medieval medina of Fez.
In this land, Arabian, African, and European influences converge, creating a beautiful chaos. These wonderous colours show up in every corner; in the architecture, the clothing, the warm and comforting food, the ambiance of little corner cafés, the sophistication of riads, and the refreshing oases of palm groves.
Today, let’s put on our babouches (traditional leather slippers) and stroll through a special part of Morocco; the storied land of El Jadida and explore a true jewel in its crown: Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort.
To reach El Jadida, you must arrive in Morocco’s largest city and its chief port: Casablanca. Beautiful palm trees lining its paths, with the Atlantic ocean over the horizon, and buildings in every corner : Casablanca is the economic lung of Morocco. It hosts headquarters and main industrial facilities for leading Moroccan and international corporations. The Port of Casablanca is one of the largest artificial ports in the world, and the largest port of North Africa. Aside from business, Casablanca is home to the Hassan II Mosque, designed by French architect Michel Pinseau. The largest mosque in North Africa, and the third largest in the world. The Arab League Park is the city’s largest public park. On the edge of the garden is Casablanca’s Sacré-Coeur Cathedral, a splendid example of Moorish architecture. The Old Medina (predating the French protectorate) is a wonderful place to spend the day, soak in the charm of the place, watching a slice of life unfolding and also shop for souvenirs, leatherwork, spices and much more.
El Jadida:
The ancient Portuguese port in the XVI century is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage. Once called ‘’Mazagao’’ in Berber, it is now known as El Jadida (The New One). El Jadida is located along the Atlantic Coast, between Casablanca and the popular coastal town of Essaouira, and is somewhat of an off-the-beaten-track destination for international tourists, but truly a hidden gem.
Visitors are impressed by the mystique of the ancient fortified towns and their walls that have stood above their inhabitants for hundreds of years and that have witnessed different cultures and powers come and go through the years. The town hosts many festivals and colorful souks or markets. The center of the Citadelle is home to a large underground arms room that was converted into a water cistern in 1941 to provide water in the event of a siege. The legendary film director Orson Wells used the site to film the scenes in his iconic film Othello in 1952.
The city’s appearance is a beautiful and unique architectural mixture of Moorish-Portuguese-French influence. With a beautiful and long coast line that attracts over 10 million visitors from around the world each year, El Jadida is a great choice for people who love swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying ocean vistas at a relaxed pace. The narrow streets, serene ambiance, and freshly caught seafood at local cafes are what attracts a traveler the most.
A Colossal Project Comes to Life: Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort
Located next to the traditional port town of El Jadida, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site is ‘Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort’. Guests can roam within the citadel walls and discover a traditional and authentic Moroccan city. A hotel within the city – or you can say a city within a hotel, this five-star beach resort offers a perfect flavour to your Moroccan holiday. The pristine coastline, sweet-scented gardens, and state-of-the-art golf course overlooking the Atlantic make Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort a magical destination. But wait there’s more!
Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort covers a boundless 250-acre land boarding a 7 km stretch of silky white sandy beach, and offers a selection of 492 rooms and suites to guests.
With its ochre walls and green tiled roofs, the resort is designed to resemble an authentic “medina”, mirroring traditional Moroccan architecture. Inspired by the Arab and Moorish interior design principles, the rooms are comfortable and cozy, while modern furnishings provide a sophisticated touch. Guests can experience the Moroccan art-de-vivre through design elements crafted by local artisans. The dark-wooden furniture and spacious, elegant washrooms present throughout the resort are also essential elements of the Moroccan architectural tradition. All rooms are equipped with satellite television, Internet & Wi-Fi connection, a safe, a mini-bar, and air-conditioning.
Honouring the ethos of family travel, 80% of the rooms are connecting, making it family friendly. At the center of the Grand Riad, an immense swimming pool surrounded by palm trees, is where you’ll see guests at the happiest and most relaxed. Friendly staff is at your service everywhere you go.
Homage to Moroccan Gastronomy and Cuisines:
Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort offers a wide range of dining options, from international favorites to the most delectable Moroccan cuisine. Whether guests choose to eat at one of the fine dining restaurants, or in a more casual setting, you are spoilt for choice. Guests can enjoy fresh, local produce prepared in a thousand and one ways across restaurants, and pair them beautifully with a wide range of carefully selected grape.
Kids Are Kings (and Queens):
In Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, the Kidz Club and Club Rush are not hard to find, just follow the sound of children’s laughter, as ‘Kids are Kings” is a policy strictly followed at the resort! From the Kids Club, (9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for children aged 3 to under 12), to the Club Rush, (10am to 7pm for teenagers), the programs focus on seaside activities, introductions to new sports and various eco-friendly workshops.
Children can enjoy a plethora of activities as well as their own swimming pool, with a slide and waterfall. Teens get their own hangout spot at Club Rush where they can have their fill of outdoor activities, water sports, electronic games and giant screens for watching films. 21-inch MAC computers and the latest video games are also available.
With such a vast range of activities (both indoor and outdoor), and the resort truly has something for everyone, from racing around the Karting circuit to horseback riding on the beach, to petting animals at Al Firma or relaxing in front of a movie. There’s practically nothing left to be desired. During the summer, the resort offers an exciting multi-sports program for children aged 5 to 17. The program includes mini golf, horseback riding, soccer, tennis, paintball and dance classes.
And who can resist a visit to the organic farm just by the resort? Children enjoy seeing not just the plantation but also spend some time with the animals there and step into a gentler, slower place of life.
Indulge in the Moroccan Art of Relaxation:
Nestled on a gentle slope behind the soft dunes of the resort is the Mazagan Spa; which feels like walking into an oasis of calm. Featuring 19 cabins, including two double rooms and a luxury two-person suite with mesmerizing ocean views, the Spa offers a myriad of treatments both modern and traditional including the authentic Moroccan Hammam – a beautiful marble floor setting with three rooms. Every treatment is unique, and begins with a private consultation to help guests choose the ideal one. They can pick from a wide range of full body massages designed for stress and tension relief, or intensive facials for a glowing complexion. The advanced techniques are combined with nourishing locally produced Moroccan oils, as well as mineral-rich clay to create signature experiences found only at Mazagan Spa. Mazagan Spa collaborates with “Biologique Recherche” and “Nectarome” to provide the ultimate beauty and skincare experience. Connected to the Spa is a fully equipped, state-of-the-art Fitness center featuring “TechnoGym” machines. Available to all guests, the fitness center also boasts a separate Pilates room as well as Kinesis equipment and a free weight area.
A Golfer’s Dream:
If you’re an avid golfer, do not miss The Par 72, 18-hole Links Golf Course – set alongside a 3 km stretch, showcasing some of the best vistas from the resort. Designed by world-famous golfer Gary Player, the course follows the gentle curves and slopes of the dunes and was created with the aim of respecting the environment and preserving the land’s natural features.
In the spirit of environment conservation, the dunes and valleys throughout the course have been crafted entirely with sand found on site. “Paspalum Platinum” the grass variety chosen for the course was selected due to its environmentally friendly growth cycle, requiring less water, fertilizer and pesticides. Additionally, in line with the resort’s fundamental principle of respect for its environment, 80% of the irrigation needs of the golf course are covered using recycled effluent water from the resort.
Mr. Player designed the course to be extremely technical, offering experienced golfers a chance for “heroic shots”, in his own words. However, all levels of ability have been catered for at the Mazagan Golf Course. The 300m long driving range is perfect for experienced golfers who wish to practice their long drives and academy services are available for beginners looking to discover, or improve their game.
The resort offers all the features of a major conference and event center. A sprawling 2000m² area adjustable to comfortably accommodate anywhere between 100 and 1300 people in a theater seating plan, and 1100 people in a banquet seating plan, among other options. Parts or the totality of the Resort can be reserved for exceptional private functions.
The resort’s conference center is a spearhead for development in the Doukkala region. A varied program includes excursions and experiences and is available to participants, as an opportunity to discover a little-known natural and cultural heritage. Guests can meet with local artisans, enjoy folkloric dancers and shows, and discover the ancestral fantasia on the beach or endless summer nights under Caidal tents.
Mazagan is truly a jewel in Morocco’s crown, waiting to host you in the quintessential Moroccan way of hospitality which will melt your heart. Whether you’re seeking a personal trip to unwind and rejuvenate, or a treat for the entire family, or even a business trip or convention, this resort has an abundance of services to offer, and is definitely a destination to add to your travel bucket-list.
A complex cultural crossroads of the Arab and Muslim world, the African and sub-Saharan world and the western, ‘globalized’ world, Morocco is a land of storytelling, spices, hospitality, and wonder! This exotic destination maintains an aura of mystery, which can never quench your thirst. Go explore this mystical land and create your own memories.
By: Delna Mistry Anand.