Fawakay Villas - A Journey from London to Marrakech

An interview with Dawn and the owners of this gorgeous retreat location.

Marrakech, Morocco - In the vibrant city of Marrakech, Fawakay Villas stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of Dawn Boys-Stones and her family. In an exclusive interview, Dawn shares the remarkable journey of uprooting from South West London to build a unique retreat in Morocco.

The Beginning of a Dream: Dawn's adventure began in 2005 when she, along with her husband Francis and their three young children, decided to leave the hustle of London behind. The family embarked on a daring project – building Fawakay Villas from scratch on a piece of land they bought in Marrakech. Despite financial challenges and the daunting task of completing the project on borrowed funds, Dawn's labor of love gradually took shape into the beautiful venue it is today.

From City Life to Venue Owners: The shift from a busy city life to venue owners was spurred by Francis’s desire to escape the grind of city work where he had spent his entire career. Dawn, an artist and stay-at-home mom, found the transition seamless. Together, they brought to life a venue that exudes warmth and comfort, making every guest feel like they're at a home away from home.

The Unique Appeal of Fawakay Villas: What sets Fawakay Villas apart is its blend of private villa comfort with hotel-like amenities and services. The couple's hands-on approach in both building and running the place ensures a personalized experience for every guest.

Vision and Goals: Dawn dreams of inspiring her guests, instilling in them the belief that anything is possible. She wants Fawakay Villas to be a place where guests feel encouraged to take risks and pursue unique paths.

Overcoming Challenges: The journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. Gaining recognition and attracting guests for group retreats and family gatherings was initially challenging. However, persistent efforts have started to bear fruit, with the venue gaining increasing popularity.

Advice for Aspiring Venue Owners: Dawn emphasizes the importance of attention to detail, especially in client communications. Clear, detailed, and transparent interactions build trust and prevent misunderstandings.

Pilates Retreats at Fawakay: In addition to hosting guests, Fawakay Villas also organizes its own Pilates retreats four times a year. These 6 to 7-night retreats have become a hit, attracting many repeat visitors who come to enjoy the unique combination of relaxation and physical well-being.

A Testament to Quality: The high standard of service at Fawakay Villas is evident. Described as a "first-class service" venue, it's a place that doesn’t just promise an escape but delivers an enriching experience.