What I treat my girlfriends to when they come to Marrakech

A ritual I look forward to every single time

When my girlfriends come to visit me in Marrakech, they often want to "experience something real". Not a standardised hotel, not an anonymous spa — something rooted in Moroccan culture. And that's when I always think of the same thing: a hammam afternoon, just us, in a private space where time stands still.

Since I discovered Hammam & Massage à Guéliz, it has become my go-to ritual for welcoming the people I love. No need to look any further.

Why I choose a private hammam for groups of girlfriends

The hammam is an institution in Morocco. It is a place of care, of letting go, of conversation too — because among friends, we talk differently when we are wrapped in steam and black soap. What I love about the private format is that the space is entirely yours. No outside eyes, no awkwardness. You arrive, you unwind, you laugh, you let yourself be pampered.

It is particularly perfect for a hen do, a birthday or simply an afternoon among friends that deserves to be a little bit special.

How the experience unfolds, step by step

Here is what is included in the package, and trust me, it is comprehensive:

• The private hammam — just your group, in your own gentle steam bubble.
• The Kessa mitt and traditional black soap scrub — this is where the real magic happens. Afterwards, your skin is literally brand new.
• The rhassoul body wrap — this treatment nourishes, purifies and leaves skin incredibly soft. Many of my girlfriends had never heard of it, and every single one of them was won over.
• An approximately 1-hour relaxing massage with natural oils — one hour to release everything you are carrying. Travel tension, everyday tension, all of it.
• Complimentary mint tea in the relaxation area — because after all of that, you settle in, savour it, and linger a little longer.

My tips to make the most of it

A few things I have learned from experience:

• Arrive 15 minutes early. This is not just a suggestion — it genuinely helps you settle in calmly and start without any stress.
• The minimum age is 17 — worth keeping in mind if you are coming as a multi-generational group.
• Bring cash for the balance. The booking deposit (€15) is paid online when you book, but the balance is settled in cash on site. No surprises if you know this in advance.
• The exact address is shared after booking. Plan your journey accordingly — transport is not included in the package.
• Cancellation is free up to 5 days before. If your plans change, you have plenty of leeway — after that deadline, the deposit is retained.

My honest thoughts after several afternoons like this one

What moves me about this kind of experience is that it is not luxury for luxury's sake. It is access to an authentic Moroccan tradition, in a setting that respects your comfort and your privacy. I have seen girlfriends arrive tired, slightly worn out from travelling, and leave glowing — truly glowing — with that quietly floating smile you get when your body and mind have finally been able to breathe.

If you are looking to round out your day with other experiences, you could also consider a Visite Privée des Souks de Marrakech before or after — or, for groups of girlfriends who want a 100% relaxation day, take a look at La Secret Beach 100% Femmes.

But for a hammam afternoon with girlfriends in Guéliz? I no longer change the formula. This is the one.