Morocco Hotel Reopens After $175M Revamp

Filling a much-needed niche in Marrakech's upscale dining scene, Garcia snagged two Michelin-rated chefs for the hotel's two new restaurants. Le Francais, led by Jean-Pierre Vigato of Paris's Apicius, offers a gourmet bite of France. L'Italien will be run by chef Alfonso Iaccarino, who has presided over the two-star kitchen at Don Alfonso 1890 Restaurant near Sorrento, Italy.

Guest room decor was lacking at the former La Mamounia, with dated furniture better suited for an Agatha Christie play. Garcia performed a designer exorcism of all 171 guest rooms and 57 suites, refurbishing the hand-carved ceilings and Moroccan paneling while handpicking the antiques that would remain at the property. Leftover hotel furnishings such as silverware and art, were sold in an auction that attracted a Titanic-like following.

Entry-level rooms on the ground and first floors are outfitted with traditional Moroccan tiles, hand-sewn carpets from the High Atlas Mountains and richly textured chairs. Seven signature suites offer gallery-level art and unparalleled views witnessed by historical icons and royalty before you. Those traveling with Madonna-type entourage can book one of the three private houses around the main garden, which come with private pools, three bedrooms and security.

Rooms start at $270 a night and climb to $15,000 for top-level suites.

-- Reported by Michael Martin of JetSetReport.com in Los Angeles.

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