Travel: La Sultana

One of the prize draws to Marrakech is the chance to savour the delights of a traditional Moroccan riad, where the oasis of an inner courtyard is the central feature of their housing design.

A sparkling example of this style is illustrated by La Sultana Marrakech, which has combined several traditional Medina homes into one glorious boutique hotel. Situated down a quiet residential alley, from the moment I walked through the grand front door, I felt I'd been transported into a world of exquisite fantasy, indulgence and timeless charm.

La Sultana is dramatically furnished with 5 tonnes of marble, 12,000sq m of carved cedarwood, hanging gardens and 18 full-grown palms.

The four interlocking courtyards are individually themed: Moroccan art deco in one, African safaris in another. But it's the pool courtyard, bracketed by elegant brickwork and private suite balconies, that really hit the sweet spot.

Even standard rooms feature extravagant details: red walls, swan-shaped fireplaces and marbled bathrooms. Massages and gourmet dinners are available on the rooftop, which is the perfect spot to sip on a sundowner.

But La Sultana's signature feature is the extravagant array of artworks across every area of the hotel. The walls, ceilings, floors, stairs and windows are all masterpieces. In addition to the sculptures, antiques and period furniture, La Sultana boasts an exceptional private collection of paintings from Moroccan artists.

Marrakech is a dreamy destination in its own right, but La Sultana brings the fantasy to life.