I spend the last night in Morocco at the Sofitel La Tour Blanche.

The hotel is located right next to the terminus at Casa Port, on the fringe of the kasbah, where it gives way to the modern high rises of new Casablanca.

As is often the case, the Sofitel is part of a compound the also includes an Ibis Hotel and a Novotel which are both located just around the corner.

My Room

I’m staying in an Executive Room on the twentieth floor. I think the hotel is actually quite old, but it’s well maintained and the room looks as though it was redecorated and modernised not too long ago.

There is a small lounger and coffee table by the wall and a desk facing the windows.

There’s also a fridge (empty), a safe, and tea and coffee making facilities with a selection of Nespresso capsules.

The bathroom is generous and features a separate bath and shower. The toilet is separate and located on the other side of the hall at the entrance to the room.

I have a large Queen bed that faces the window.

By far the best feature of the room is the stupendous view, overlooking the harbour on my right, the old kasbah in the foreground, and the imposing mosque of King Hassan II in the background, which sits precariously atop a promontory overlooking the Atlantic.

Service

A few minutes after the concierge brings my suitcase up, there’s a tap at the door. When I open, there are two friendly waitresses at my door. One of them is carrying a bowl of fruit and still water, while the other is holding a tray of sweets as a welcome gift for me. About an hour later, there’s another tap at the door. This time it’s a young man bringing me a box of pastries with a letter from the team, hoping I’ve enjoyed my stay.

There’s also a turn down service, but I don’t make use of that.

Dining

Currently, the public areas of the hotel are being refurbished. As a result, the main restaurants are closed and instead, meals are served on the ground floor in what would otherwise be the bar.

I only have breakfast at the hotel, and I’m impressed by the very large selection of options available. It’s a shame though that there don’t seem to be any Moroccan breakfast options.

The Staff

One thing that always impresses me at the Sofitels is how well the staff are trained, and the Tour Blanche is no exception. Reception and concierge are friendly and efficient, and the waiting staff at the restaurant are nothing short of amazing.

There are two floor walkers constantly checking on guests. I finish my café au lait, and within seconds a new one appears, the waiter telling me I looked like I was hoping for another.

Conclusion

If you’re heading to Casablanca, I think the Sofitel is a great place to stay. It’s in close walking distance to the grand mosque, the old kasbah with its bazaar and the centre of the new town with the fancy shops.