Every trip with The Next Chapter Travel includes stays at five-star properties throughout the trip — it's non-negotiable for me. But some hotels manage to be more than the sum of their stars. Selman Marrakech is one of them.
On paper, it has everything you'd expect: spacious rooms, a stunning pool that seems to go on forever, the renowned Chenot Spa, and thoughtful touches around every corner. What sets it apart are the purebred Arabians in the on-property stables — a detail that draws guests like Madonna and gives the whole estate a sense of occasion.
The dining range is remarkable. Traditional Moroccan with creative flourishes (and evening belly dance performances) on one end, refined French cuisine on the other. And then there's the Sunday brunch, which I can only describe as incomparable. Sushi, a seafood bar with fresh lobster, grilled meats, and more salads and desserts than you could possibly sample — but the real showstopper is the horse show. The horse master and his riders are extraordinary. Think standing atop two galloping horses at once, or a backflip on horseback. Jaw-dropping is not an exaggeration.
Our group also loved the traditional hammam followed by a massage at the Chenot Spa. Several travelers booked multiple treatments — the spa is known for its detoxification work, and once you experience it, you understand why.
My personal favorite, though? The gentleman who played sitar at breakfast each morning. His music was so peaceful, so quietly beautiful — the most perfect way to start the day. I've genuinely missed him since I got home.
