Hotel Sahrai provides a peaceful respite away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Opened in 2014, it stands on the former site of Marshal Lyautey’s summer palace. The building was designed by famous French artist, Christophe Pillet, who has recreated the hand-carved arches that once adorned the facade of the original building. The scent of sandalwood is immediate in the lobby, which is decked out with marble floors and high ceilings alongside contemporary artwork, colorful patterned rugs, traditional Moroccan hanging lamps, and modern curved furniture. The infinity pool with padded double day beds has a relaxed atmosphere during the day, though families with children tend to congregate around the children's pool. For a romantic counterpoint, the rooftop bar is a go-to for sundowners, offering stunning views of the city's golden twinkling lights. The chilled music creates a sophisticated atmosphere, and the place tends to liven up after dark. The clientele at the hotel is mostly couples and families, though some business travelers also stay here.

The ancient city of Fes is situated in the northeast of Morocco, and is famous for its walled medina, Fes el-Bali. The medina is filled with hundreds of colorful souks and original 12th-century architecture, and it's completely free of cars. The hotel is located away from this sometimes chaotic central part of town, though it can be reached in around 10 minutes by car. A free daily shuttle service runs into town, making it convenient for guests to explore the city. Although the hotel is luxurious, it's worth noting that the immediate area is a bit run-down. There's little activity or amenities in the vicinity, which makes it quiet, especially at night. Guests wanting to explore outside the city should take a day trip to pretty Chefchaouen and the historic Volubilis ruins. Fes-Saiss Airport is around a 30-minute drive from the hotel, while Fes Railway Station is a 10- to 15-minute drive away 

All 50 rooms and suites are contemporary, spacious, and cozy. The style is a mix of contemporary and traditional, with warm gray tone carpets and intricately carved feature walls. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in plenty of natural light, and some suites have additional private terraces. Standard rooms have no real views, while others overlook the medina or gardens. All rooms are stylishly furnished with sleek wooden work desks, sofa beds, Moroccan-style bedside lamps, and King or Twin pillowtop beds with soft Egyptian cotton sheets. Modern amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, phones, laptop safes, fully-stocked minibars, Nespresso coffeemakers, and tea-making facilities, while free robes, slippers, and welcome pastries add a thoughtful touch. Tiled bathrooms are spacious and modern, and all include separate toilets, deep-soaking shower/tub combos, marble countertop sinks, and free Acqua di Parma toiletries. Guest should note that glass walls mean bathrooms lack a sense of privacy, but sheer curtains can be drawn for modesty. 

The Hotel Sahrai offers numerous luxury facilities. It has a designer Givenchy spa with a traditional hammam, offering exotic massages, facials, and body treatments, plus a sauna and hot tub. The building wraps around a large infinity pool with panoramic views of the city, as well as a smaller children's pool, though the hotel lacks other amenities for kids. There are two on-site restaurants -- a chic French brasserie and a Moroccan restaurant with indoor seating. A free breakfast buffet is served here daily, providing a variety of hot and cold options, though some guests find the selection underwhelming. The rooftop bar and terrace is a lovely spot to watch the sunset, serving fresh cocktails and snacks. There's a modern fitness center with cardio machines, but no free weights, as well as a spacious meeting room with modern technologies. The hotel offers a free daily shuttle service to the medina and free parking. Other services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, laundry, and airport transfers for a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.