Marrakesh is a city that truly has it all – vibrant energy and calming peace, bustling streets and hidden gems, historical charm and modern luxury. Get ready to be enchanted by the labyrinthine beauty of the medina, where colours explode from every corner, and every turn promises a new discovery. However, after a day of exploring this chaotic paradise, you might yearn for some quiet time to unwind. Luckily, Marrakesh offers a unique and deeply traditional way to de-stress: the hammam.
The Hammam: A Moroccan Ritual for Body and Soul
Hammams are traditional Moroccan bathhouses that have been an integral part of Moroccan culture for centuries. You’ll find them scattered throughout the city, and many locals make visiting the hammam a weekly ritual. It’s an experience that’s definitely worth incorporating into your own Marrakesh adventure. The tradition of communal bathhouses dates back to Roman times, where they were once exclusive to men. Over time, hammams opened their doors to women, becoming a vital part of life for everyone. Although the exact date of the hammam’s arrival in Morocco is uncertain, Hammam Mouassine, the oldest and arguably most authentic hammam in Marrakesh, dates back to 1572. In Islamic societies, cleanliness is paramount, and ritual washing is practiced before prayer. In the past, the lack of indoor plumbing and reliable hot water made hammams an essential part of daily life. Today, hammams remain a popular spot for both relaxation and socialising.
Hammams: A Dive into Moroccan Traditions
In public neighbourhood hammams, men and women bathe on separate days or at different times, ensuring privacy and respect for cultural traditions. Private hammams, often found in hotels or operated as businesses, offer a more intimate experience, allowing you to enjoy the hammam with just an attendant.
When you step into a hammam, you’ll be guided to a changing room to remove your clothes and slip into your underwear. The next step is to enter a hot steam room where you’ll be treated to a relaxing and invigorating ritual. A friendly attendant will pour warm water over you, lathering you with savon noir, a special soap made with olive oil. This rich soap will be left to soak in for a few minutes, softening the skin and preparing it for exfoliation. The attendant will then use a special glove to gently scrub away dead skin cells, leaving your body feeling refreshed and revitalized. After the exfoliation, you’ll be instructed to wash yourself with soap and shampoo.
Private hammams offer a simpler experience – just pack clothes to change into after your session. Some even provide disposable underwear, or you can wear your own. While you can cover up more if you wish, the attendant may need to adjust your bathing suit during the full body scrub.
For a truly authentic hammam experience, visiting a neighbourhood hammam is the way to go, although you’ll need to bring your own supplies. You’ll need a small bowl for scooping water, a kessa (scrubbing mitt), savon noir, your own shampoo and toiletries, a plastic mat for the floor, a change of clothes, and a towel for drying off. Don’t worry, though – your accommodation can often assist you in gathering the necessary items. You can either scrub yourself or pay an attendant to do it for an extra fee.
A Spectrum of Hammam Experiences
Marrakesh offers a wide range of hammam experiences, catering to every budget and preference. From incredibly affordable neighbourhood hammams, starting at around Dh20, to luxurious spas with treatments costing over Dh1000, each hammam provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture and traditions. For maximum enjoyment, choose a hammam close to your accommodation, allowing you to float back in pure bliss after your treatment.
The Epitome of Luxury: The Royal Mansour Spa
If you’re looking for the most opulent hammam experience in Marrakesh, look no further than The Royal Mansour, situated on the southwestern edge of the medina. This exquisite spa is no ordinary establishment – it’s owned by the king of Morocco himself and is modelled after the royal palace. From the moment you step into the spa’s impressive white foyer, with its soaring ceilings and birdcage-like interior, you’ll feel like royalty. The impeccable service, top-notch products, and serene surroundings will make you feel pampered and indulged. While the princely prices might be daunting for budget travellers (treatments start at Dh1400), if you’re looking for a luxurious escape, The Royal Mansour is the place to be.
Hammam Rosa Bonheur: A Blend of Charm and Tradition
For a more traditional yet equally charming experience, Hammam Rosa Bonheur is a great choice. Located in a beautiful riad, a traditional Moroccan house, this hammam offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. The hammam rooms are decorated with exquisite colourful geometric Moroccan tiles and tadelakt, a traditional waterproof plaster common in Moroccan homes. Book a hammam treatment starting at Dh250 and add on a massage or lunch for an additional fee. Don’t worry about getting lost in Marrakesh’s labyrinthine medina – you can be picked up and transported directly to the hammam for your treatment.
Heritage Spa: A Modern Oasis of Moroccan Tradition
If you’re searching for a blend of affordability and luxurious comfort, Heritage Spa in the Bab Doukkala neighbourhood is an excellent choice. Each treatment room is a testament to traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, featuring stunning tilework and tadelakt, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and sophistication. The attendants use all-natural plant-based soaps and essential oils, ensuring a truly authentic and pampering experience. Try the Hammam Beldi Detox (Dh290) for a deep cleanse and renewal using soothing argan and bitter orange oils.
Hammam Mouassine: A Journey Through Time
For an authentic and truly historic hammam experience, Hammam Mouassine, Marrakesh’s oldest hammam, is a must-visit. This gem has been welcoming bathers since the 16th century, and while it may not be the most stylish hammam in Marrakesh, its historical significance and traditional design are truly remarkable. The hammam consists of three tadelakt-plastered rooms with varying temperatures, creating a relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere. Water nozzles line the walls, constantly supplying hot and cold water to bathers’ buckets. There are no designated treatment areas, allowing you to enjoy the traditional hammam experience, either by scrubbing yourself or by paying for an attendant’s services. Hammam Mouassine is a public hammam, so be sure to bring your own bathing supplies. Entry starts at Dh10.
The Neighbourhood Hammam: Authenticity at its Finest
If you’re on a budget or simply want the most authentic hammam experience, venturing to a neighbourhood hammam is highly recommended. They exist in every quarter of the city and are open to the public. Ask your riad or hotel concierge for directions to the nearest one, as these traditional hammams often don’t have names or addresses. Most neighbourhood hammams operate on a rotating schedule for men and women, so be sure to inquire about the appropriate times before you go.
Marrakesh is a city that offers a captivating blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you choose to explore the bustling medina, delve into the rich history of the city, or indulge in a traditional hammam ritual, Marrakesh promises an unforgettable experience.
