Idou Malabata Beach & Spa — Hotel in arrondissement de Charf-Mghogha الشرف مغوغة

I recently stayed at the Idou Malabata Hotel in Tangier, and it was an absolutely incredible experience from beginning to end! The hotel’s modern elegance paired with its stunning oceanfront location completely blew me away. The moment I stepped into my room, I was greeted by those breathtaking floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the deep blue waves crashing against the shore—pure magic! The room itself was so cozy yet stylish, very comfy bed and everything one might need during travel. But the real highlight for me was the housekeeping lady “Najoua “she was the true star of my stay! One day, after I’d been out for my conference, I came back to my room to find rose petals and my power bank plugged in and charging, with a little card on the bed to let me know she’d taken care of it,as I complained to her about a little incident. I found out she was the one behind those adorable details, and her thoughtfulness just melted my heart. Can you believe that? It was such a kind gesture, and it showed me how much she paid attention to every little thing. And the rose petals? She kept adding them around the room—on the bed, in the sinks—even more each day, making it feel like a personal gift just for me. Her sweet intentions turned my stay into something extra special, and I couldn’t help but smile every time I saw her handiwork. During my trip, I unfortunately got a small injury on my foot. Thankfully, Maria, one of the amazing staff members, stepped in with such care. She personally gave me first aid, pulling out all the necessary supplies from a first aid kit and bandaging me up with the gentlest touch. Her kindness was unreal and made me feel so supported. The food was out of this world,everything that I could possibly crave was available or adjusted to my likings and the restaurant staff were so kind and attentive, making every meal a joy. I’ll admit, I had a few scatterbrained moments—I kept forgetting my bag, whether in the lobby or at the restaurant—but the staff always called me and returned it safely. That level of care made me feel so secure and cared for. And the extras? The gym was fantastic, with top-notch equipment, while the spa and massage were pure bliss—especially that relaxing massage that left me on cloud nine. Overall, my stay at Idou Malabata was unforgettable, thanks to the luxurious vibe, stunning views, the perfect location(10mins from the center)and Najoua’s sweet gestures (and Maria’s caring first aid) made it all so personal. The amazing food, the restaurant staff’s warmth, and the peace of mind from their attentiveness had me feeling right at home. I can’t wait...

The good: staff is very attentive and friendly. Check-in was informative and the staff welcoming. It took a bit to get the room key even though we checked in after check-in time. But the friendly reception made up for it. The rooms are as advertised. Clean, new, comfortable. Upgrading to a room with a patio is worth it - especially if you have kids. The rooms are spacious and well-kept. The cleaning ladies are phenomenal. They cleaned our room twice per day including fresh towels. The hotel grounds are new and well kept. The lounge beds overlooking the ocean are amazing, as is the view from the hotel. The view can’t be beat in Tangier. The breakfast buffet is well-stocked and includes a variety of dishes. The spa is the only thing at the hotel reasonably priced and worth the experience. Definitely book a service.

The bad: the hotel definitely has some things that need improvement before reaching 5-stars by western standards. First, our room was a family suite with a patio walking out to the pool. There was a smell of sewage coming occasionally from the bathroom. I noticed it at check-in but was told it was from the ocean. After staying a week, I’m sure it’s coming from the pipes in the bathroom. Second, and most, the food at the hotel (besides breakfast) needs vast improvement. They have the same menu for lunch and dinner and at all restaurants (including room service). So you’re basically stuck eating the same food for lunch and dinner every day. There aren’t many restaurants nearby so the menu gets old very quickly. Also, the menu is underwhelming and grossly overpriced. There is no children’s menu and nothing on the menu is suitable for children. There are also no convenient stores nearby so you’re stuck paying $5 per bottle of water at the hotel and if you don’t have a car, make sure you have all necessities with you. Pro tip: download glovo and thank me later - especially if you have kids. Also, a short walking distance away is a restaurant with many options half the price as at the hotel (though still overpriced). Last, there is a lack of entertainment. There really isn’t anything to keep the kids busy during the day other than swim, which we all know entertains them for an hour or two max. The music, though relaxing, is a bit boring for the kids at the family pool. Also, opening the beach access gate would be nice to give people the option to swim in the ocean.

Overall, would recommend for a 2-3 day...

Very mixed but at the end a one star because a 5 stars establishment must deliver on its 5 stars promise.

Frankly, not one we would recommend to anyone and it’s not worth tbe price and time. This is a mistake.

Let me break this down;

1- the price you pay for a suite is not worth the facilities. A suite in this hotel is not a suite. It’s a larger room with a terrace that is practically empty.

2- the hotel facilities in high season eg restaurants are below standard because of limited choice. Not to mention the construction side next door and construction works being done in August…

3- the basic services are lagging, eg try to order room service. The line has been busy since we arrived.

4- very inexperienced staff. All over the place. Some are very kind and helpful, some are simply rude.

5- overpriced food and beverage. We’ve tried all spots including room service. Trying to apply Dubai and Saint Tropez price points in a hotel in Morocco that is still not worthy of a 5 star rating, is beyond delusional. to be tangible, paying 390MAD for 4 cola zero cans is insane, small plate of carpaccio at 240 MAD, traditional morrocan soup at 160MAD. We haven’t seen this madness even in places like La Mamounia with 100 years plus of experience and awards in every category possible.

6- spa is a no go for anyone who’s used to proper spa services. All-round staff is a great idea to be efficient but when you put special treatments on the menu of 1200mad+ and your massages start at 700mad, you better have the best staff and most professional staff executing. The spa manager is absolutely lovely but the basics are completely missing and there is too much for her to sort without help. Some of the basics are a simple form to get information about any physical issues, allergies and preferences, doesn’t exist. It’s even worse as the massage therapists never ask about any preferences and simply just get to work. An hour massage has never been an hour, lucky if you get 45 min for the hour you pay for. And no point in choosing any massages because no matter what you’ve booked, you’ll get the same treatment.

It’s been probably one of our worst ever holidays. I would not...