Sofitel, M'Diq, Morocco

Tangier may be the mythic Moroccan haunt of artists, writers and the old-school glam jet set of the 20th century, but just down the coast the new Sofitel Tamuda Bay hotel hopes to make M’diq the newest luxury destination for the discerning traveller. 

For starters, Lebanon-based Galal Mahmoud of GM Architects has blended the glitz of the French Riviera and the cool tranquillity of the Moroccan Mediterranean to create a modular jewel box on the sea, while inside, his dive into M’diq’s aesthetics results in a colourful haven with swathes of northern Morocco’s striking signature combination of cobalt blue and white. 

Set against a backdrop of the majestic Rif Mountains and perfectly framing the panoramic vistas of the inky Mediterranean Sea, the the 104 guest rooms and villas are either vibrantly decorated with bold art and furnishings, or subtly decked out in elegant blonde wood. The lobby and lounge spaces meanwhile, are resolutely 1970s mod in marble and vivid colours.