A world of sensory delights. Lush greenery and airy modern architecture. The Story Rabat boutique hotel and spa delights its guests with upscale, discreet luxury. Located in a central district filled with villas, its elegant rooms and suites look out over the 44m Hassan Tower, Rabat’s unmistakeable landmark, and hint at the charms of the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012. If Morocco’s flag – red with a green, five-pointed star – has been hoisted, locals and visitors know that the king is staying in his seat of government.

In the most modern and perhaps most contradictory of Morocco’s four royal cities, the Story Rabat hotel complex was named Morocco’s best luxury boutique hotel of 2021 thanks to its spectacular design concept. The Story Rabat is also running a pioneering sustainability project that includes reducing, recycling, buying local and regional products, and preserving existing resources.

For head chef Youssef Zeroual, this is all a matter of course. He spent his childhood years in Taliouine, a small Moroccan village at the foot of the Atlas Valley, where he met the ordinary people responsible for harvesting precious saffron. Since then, he has drawn inspiration from this pure, natural spice to create the culinary philosophy of Restaurant Le Safran. He emphasises the magic of excellent local ingredients and aromas, creating unique culinary experiences.