Marrakesh – From Serbian top model to TV host, humanitarian to the spouse of a football star, Adriana Karembeu has worn many hats.
Now, she reigns over an idyllic haven; Palais Ronsard.
Yet, Karembeu’s tale with Morocco didn’t begin with the palace; it blossomed with a love affair that mirrored the vibrant colors of the North African country.
Morocco has captivated her with its rich culture and warm hospitality.
“I fell in love with this country, its culture, its people, its history,” said Karembeu in an exclusive interview with Gala outlet.
She got to know the country on her own during her modeling career, and later, alongside her ex-husband Aram Ohanian, who had been living there for 40 years.
Ohanian was fond of hosting, according to Karembeu. As they planned their future home in Marrakech, he often mentioned adding rooms to accommodate different friends.
“One evening, I told him that at this rate, he might as well build a hotel,” Karembeu stated.
And thus Palais Ronsard was inaugurated on March 1, 2019 – the fruit of a collaboration tinged with love between Karembeu and Ohanian.
The inspiration behind Marrakech’s Palais Ronsard
The name choice was quite particular, referencing the famous Pierre de Ronsard rose, Adriana Karembeu’s favorite flower.
Palais Ronsard is located twenty minutes from the center of Marrakech and was conceived by the duo not as a hotel, but as a “vacation home.” Within its walls, she says she wanted people to feel at home.
Karembeu feels at home there, and so does, she says, her daughter Nina. “My daughter loves Palais Ronsard. She thinks it’s her home because she was born here and has always lived here.” The mom mentioned that the staff here are like family to her Nina. The receptionist, for instance, is her friend.
Built on untouched land where a few olive trees once grew under the Marrakech sun, this destination is a haven of tranquility in the heart of the city’s historic palm grove.
“There, it’s paradise; I feel like a princess,” expressed the mastermind behind this project.
To her, “art lies in the details,” which is why their friend and interior architect Gil Dez, alongside decorator France Ansaldi, skillfully managed the design and decoration of this Haute Couture establishment, harmonizing Moroccan tradition with an “art deco” flair.
“We explained what we wanted, and he turned our dreams into reality,” Karembeu added.
With its 28 suites, including 6 private pavilions ranging from 175 to 190 square meters, each with a pool and garden, Palais Ronsard remains a highly confidential cocoon, far from urban hustle and bustle.
“There are no two rooms alike,” stated the celebrity. Spread across three hectares of land, the lush greenery reigns supreme, spanning over 20,000 square meters.
With centuries-old olive trees, rocky cascades, fountains, and towering palm trees, Palais Ronsard celebrates the beauty of nature in all its splendor.
A showcase of Moroccan cuisine
There are three different dining options, but the most renowned is the Restaurant Le Jardin d’Hiver. There, Karembeu shared that they entrusted Chef Alexandre Thomas with designing the simple yet enticing menu.
The Michelin-star chef offers an oriental-inspired menu with a contemporary twist, bistrot-style during the day and gourmet in the evening. Chef Thomas’ culinary inspiration was the Atlas Mountains and the general abundance found on Morocco’s land.
His fusion cuisine highlights the south of France – his homeland – and Morocco – his adopted land.
Karembeu highlighted that the restaurant won the “2020 Versailles Prize” for the most beautiful restaurant in the world.”It’s amazing, we really didn’t expect it at all. It recognized our efforts. It warmed our hearts,” she added.
Palais Ronsard stands as a testament to Karembeu’s love for Morocco and her dedication to creating a tranquil oasis where luxury meets comfort.
The destination not only offers a luxurious retreat but also embodies a harmonious blend of cultures, making it a destination cherished by visitors seeking both relaxation and inspiration.
