Villas Fawakay

Private villas for 2-6, with the luxurious benefits of a hotel, set in bucolic gardens just 10km from Marrakech

Villas Fawakay is a lush complex of 4 large sand-coloured houses, built in unobtrusively modern style and surrounded by a verdant 3.5 acres of garden, which are patrolled by guinea fowl, peacocks, tortoises, cats, goats, chicken and Doris the mischievous donkey - the family pets. The setting is about 10km from Marrakech in a remote location next to a small, dusty village - and the complex is a surprise after the where-are-we-headed journey; a lovely tangle of rose gardens, vegetable patches and well-tended green space.

The welcoming English owners live on-site in one house (Dawn, Frankie plus 4 children). The other 3 villas are for guests, and private - each with a plunge pool and dining table outside - but people tend to mingle with the family and other guests around the pool with its honesty bar. And the pièce de resistance for frazzled families? Although the privacy and amount of space here make it feel like a self-catering place, it’s not: order delicious local and continental food from the menu and it’ll be served whenever and wherever you like. A well-thought-out choice for a relaxing yet exotic break, and the owners also run Riad Fawakay in Marrakech medina, should you want a split-base holiday.

Highs

• Wonderfully spacious villas, with dramatic large rooms. Rent a suite in Laklak, or an entire house
• Kids will love the pool, clay tennis court, family pets and tearing around the lovely grounds
• The peace of the countryside, yet Marrakech is easily accessible for day trips
• The choice between privacy or being more sociable
• Your terrifically welcoming hosts, Francis and Dawn

Lows

• Nigh-on impossible to find in a taxi - make sure you ask for a transfer from the airport
• No local restaurants, should you want a change of scene
• The pool and plunge pools aren't heated, but for most of the year this isn't a problem