The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam

The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam stands as a majestic addition to Morocco's luxury hospitality scene, earning a Michelin Key selection for its opulent design and extensive offerings. Nestled within a sprawling 440-hectare estate of lush gardens and an oak forest, adjacent to the prestigious Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, the hotel is often described by guests as a "dreamlike Moroccan palace" and a "sanctuary of Moroccan elegance."

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general sentiment for The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently praising its grandeur, serene ambiance, and luxurious facilities. On Booking.com, the hotel boasts high ratings: 9.1 for location, 9.3 for cleanliness, 9.2 for facilities, 9.2 for comfort, and 8.9 for staff. Reviewers often highlight the balance between traditional Moroccan charm and contemporary comfort, creating a refined and inviting atmosphere. However, some guests have reported negative experiences, citing issues with service and room cleanliness.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of the property:

• Design & Ambiance: The hotel's design is a masterful blend of Arab-Andalusian and Baroque influences, showcasing intricate Moroccan craftsmanship with details like muqarnas, plasterwork frescoes, and geometric patterns. The lavish interiors feature gilded frescoes, marble, and stunning chandeliers, creating a palatial feel that is both grand and refined.
• Spacious Grounds & Privacy: The extensive grounds, including courtyards, fountains, and palm-lined walkways, offer a sense of privacy and tranquility, ideal for relaxation and strolls.
• Immersive Spa: The spa is a significant highlight, featuring rosewater steam rooms, hammam rituals, saunas, ten treatment suites (including two for couples), an indoor pool, and a 24/7 fitness center. Its entrance, leading past a reflective pond with olive trees, sets a serene tone.
• Golf Course Access: The hotel provides direct access to the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, a world-class course with 45 holes set amidst a 440-acre oak forest, making it a favorite for golf enthusiasts.
• Diverse Dining: The variety and quality of dining experiences are frequently praised, from traditional Moroccan to international fusion.

3. Room Quality

The 100 guest rooms and 17 suites are meticulously designed to evoke the opulence of a royal palace. Each room features hand-carved cedarwood details, intricate zellij tiles, and soft Berber rugs, blending traditional Moroccan artistry with plush modern furnishings.

Key features include:

• Private terraces with views of the lush gardens, tranquil lakes, or the monumental pool.
• Spacious marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, rainfall showers, and luxurious Asprey amenities.
• Separate living areas in many rooms and suites.
• Comfortable pillow-top beds with premium bedding and Frette linens.
• Modern amenities such as air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, two large flat-screen televisions, and fully stocked refreshment bars.

Some guests reported issues with cleanliness, mentioning "filthy rooms" with ants and dust, suggesting inconsistency in housekeeping.

4. Dining Experience

The Ritz-Carlton Rabat offers a memorable culinary journey with a celebration of diverse local and international flavors across its five restaurants and bars.

• The Mediterranean Brasserie: A popular choice for all-day dining, offering exceptional culinary experiences from morning to night. It serves à la carte breakfasts (with highly recommended Moroccan specialties like Amlou with yellow almonds), gourmet lunches, and refined dinners, all with stunning views of the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam.
• Palapa: A tropical poolside restaurant serving Pan-American flavors, including ceviche, tacos, and light snacks, along with refreshing cocktails.
• The Lobby Lounge: Ideal for a unique afternoon tea experience, featuring an exquisite selection of Moroccan and English teas, delicious bites, Moroccan sweets, and bespoke drinks in an elegant setting.
• Blind Tiger: A 1920s-inspired speakeasy bar offering classic and signature Prohibition-era cocktails, fine wines, premium spirits, and delectable culinary creations in an intimate, low-lit atmosphere.
• Rihla: Mentioned as an elegant dinner experience with creative pairings and standout service, featuring Asian, Moroccan, and European influences.

While the dining options are generally highly praised, some feedback suggests that breakfast could be improved.

5. Service & Staff

Guest feedback on hospitality is largely positive, highlighting the "warm welcome, the hospitality, and the whole vibe of the hotel." Many guests have commended the staff as "amazing," demonstrating "remarkable professionalism, warmth, and attentiveness." Concierge services, front desk staff, servers, and the housekeeping team have been specifically recognized for their courteousness and dedication to ensuring an outstanding experience.

However, a notable number of complaints point to "terrible service," slow responses from reception, and staff who "do not care at all." Some guests experienced long waits for room keys and assistance, and issues with room cards not working, requiring trips to the reception for resolution.

6. Location & Accessibility

The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam is strategically located within a serene 440-hectare forest, offering an idyllic escape from the city's hustle while remaining close to historic landmarks.

• Neighborhood: It is situated in the Souissi district, alongside the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam.
• Attractions: The hotel is a few minutes' drive from Rabat's historic center, about 15 minutes from vibrant downtown, and close to attractions like Hassan Tower and Bouregreg Marina.
• Transport: Rabat-Salé Airport is approximately 20 minutes away. Guests advise keeping the exact address handy as taxis may sometimes struggle with directions.

7. Value & Pricing

As a Michelin Key Selected property and a Ritz-Carlton establishment, the hotel is positioned in the luxury segment. Rates generally start around $353-$447 USD per night or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. On Booking.com, it received an 8.4 rating for "Value for money." While it represents a significant investment, many guests feel it offers excellent value for a splurge-worthy getaway, given the luxurious amenities, stunning design, and comprehensive services provided.

8. Common Complaints

Despite the overall positive feedback, some recurring issues have been reported by guests:

• Service Inconsistencies: "Terrible service," slow responses from reception and room service, and unhelpful staff are mentioned in several reviews.
• Room Cleanliness: Complaints about "filthy rooms" with ants, insects, and dust, as well as rooms not being properly prepared upon check-in, have been noted.
• Waiting Times: Guests have experienced long waits for room keys, assistance, and even when getting a new room due to issues.
• Missing Amenities: Some basic amenities, such as a trashcan in the restroom, were reported missing from rooms.
• Breakfast Quality: A few guests felt that the breakfast, while varied, could be of higher quality for a Ritz-Carlton property.

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