A stay in a riad will likely be one of your most memorable experiences in Marrakesh. Push open the heavy wooden door, and you enter a world far removed from the hubbub outside; one where you can rest in the shade of an orange tree, dip into a lantern-lit pool, or peer across the minarets of the historic city from the roof terrace, mint tea in hand.
## La Maison Arabe: A Sanctuary of Moroccan Craftsmanship
La Maison Arabe stands as a distinguished establishment, gracing a street easily accessible by car within the vibrant Bab Doukkala neighborhood, right at the heart of the city. Upon stepping inside, guests are immediately immersed in an atmosphere that celebrates the rich tapestry of Moroccan artistry. The walls, adorned with smooth tadelakt – a traditional lime plaster technique – create a calming and visually appealing backdrop. Intricate carvings in stucco, a testament to the skill of local artisans, complement the warmth of the cedar wood ceilings, showcasing the dedication to traditional craftsmanship. Decorative moucharabieh window screens add a layer of mystique and privacy, filtering the sunlight into delicate patterns.
The hotel’s design thoughtfully incorporates flower-draped courtyards and corridors, each a miniature oasis of tranquility. These spaces are further enhanced by the presence of carefully selected antiques, each piece telling a silent story of Morocco’s rich history and cultural heritage. These elements lead to the hotel’s thirty-two rooms and suites, each an individually designed haven.
Inside each room and suite, a commitment to luxury and comfort is evident. Marble-and-granite bathrooms provide a spa-like experience. Minibars stocked with refreshments offer convenience, and satellite TVs provide entertainment. However, the true highlights are the features that elevate the experience further. Many rooms boast inviting fireplaces, perfect for cozy evenings, and private terraces where guests can soak in the sights and sounds of Marrakesh.
The service at La Maison Arabe is a masterclass in discreet attentiveness. The staff anticipate needs without being intrusive, creating an atmosphere of serene relaxation. This ambiance is particularly pronounced beside the olive tree-lined pool, a tranquil escape from the bustle of the city.
For those seeking ultimate relaxation, the subterranean hammam is a must-visit. Considered one of Marrakesh’s finest, this spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments. The relaxation area, illuminated by the soft glow of teardrop-shaped lanterns, provides a soothing space to unwind. Indulge in a classic treatment such as a gommage, a traditional body scrub that leaves the skin feeling refreshed and revitalized, followed by a refreshing rinse of orange-flower water.
La Maison Arabe extends its hospitality beyond its walls with a shuttle service to its sister property located in the countryside. Here, guests can wander through beautiful gardens, a true oasis of calm. For culinary enthusiasts, the property offers highly regarded culinary workshops led by a dada, a traditional home chef. These workshops offer a unique opportunity to delve into the secrets of Moroccan cuisine.
Dining at La Maison Arabe is a delight for the senses. In the cooler months, the traditional Moroccan restaurant provides an enchanting setting for dinner, accompanied by the soothing melodies of Arabian lute music. During the summer months, French-Moroccan dishes are served poolside, allowing guests to enjoy the balmy evenings. Start your day with a delectable breakfast of fresh pastries, seasonal fruit, and eggs cooked to your liking, served either in the comfort of your room or by the refreshing pool. La Maison Arabe is an experience in itself.
## Almaha Marrakech: Where Poetry Meets Design
Nestled away in a serene and authentic corner of the Kasbah neighborhood, a location removed from the usual tourist trails, Almaha Marrakech offers an escape into a world of artistic inspiration and luxurious comfort. Just a short five-minute walk will take you to the historical Saadian tombs, while a leisurely twenty-minute stroll will lead you to the vibrant Jemma el-Fna square, placing you within easy reach of the city’s iconic landmarks.
This five-star riad bears the unmistakable imprint of Belgian designer Charles Kaisin, whose contemporary vision breathes new life into the riad’s traditional architecture. Kaisin’s playful and unique design touches create an ambiance of refined whimsy. One such touch is a captivating cityscape mural crafted from silk pixels, showcasing his innovative approach.
Almaha Marrakech invites relaxation and rejuvenation at every turn. A lantern-lit pool offers a refreshing escape from the Marrakesh heat. An underground spa, complete with twin hammams and a hot tub, provides a sanctuary for pampering and wellness. The bougainvillea-draped roof terrace offers a stunning setting to lounge and take in the views. Almaha Marrakech embraces an informal atmosphere, inviting guests to dine wherever and whenever they please.
The riad’s twelve rooms and suites are generously proportioned, offering an abundance of space and luxurious amenities. The rooms are each scented with the delicate fragrance of orange blossom, a subtle sensory delight. Berber rugs add warmth and texture underfoot, while bespoke furnishings reflect the riad’s unique design aesthetic. Handpicked art adorns the walls, creating a sophisticated and visually stimulating environment. The marble-and-tadelakt bathrooms are equipped with rain-showers and deep soaking tubs, ensuring a truly indulgent experience. Almaha Marrakech is a luxurious retreat for anyone visiting the city.
## Dar Kawa: Minimalist Chic in the Heart of the Medina
Tucked away at the end of a quiet dead-end alley within the bustling medina, Dar Kawa offers a serene escape from the city’s vibrant energy. The building itself dates back to the early 17th century and has been carefully transformed into a charming guesthouse by Valérie Barkowski, a Belgian textile designer with an eye for detail and a passion for creating inviting spaces. Dar Kawa provides the perfect base to explore the city. From here, the Marrakesh Museum and the exquisitely ornate Ben Youssef Madrasa (Islamic school) are just a short stroll away.
Dar Kawa embraces the riad-as-home concept, creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. The guesthouse features only four rooms and suites, ensuring personalized attention and a sense of exclusivity. Accommodations range from cozy doubles featuring four-poster beds to more spacious and lavish suites, each designed to offer a unique experience. Barkowski’s signature linens adorn the beds, adding a touch of luxury and comfort. Black-and-white photos of artists who have stayed at Dar Kawa add a touch of history and personality to the rooms. The use of monochrome colors throughout the guesthouse amplifies the feeling of space and allows the architectural details to truly shine.
Dar Kawa exudes a laid-back and relaxed vibe. Guests can linger over a delicious Moroccan breakfast featuring traditional pancakes and seasonal fruits. The orange tree-shaded courtyard provides a tranquil space for relaxation and reflection. For those seeking further rejuvenation, the guesthouse offers soothing massages using 100% natural products in its tranquil spa. Dar Kawa is a minimalist sanctuary.
## Riad Farnatchi: Unparalleled Luxury and Service
Riad Farnatchi represents a luxurious conversion of five historic properties located within the heart of Marrakesh’s medina, firmly establishing itself as a leading destination on the riad scene. The riad features ten sleek and beautifully appointed suites, each illuminated by soft lantern light and showcasing an unwavering attention to detail. Handmade beds are draped in luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Beautifully carved woodwork and stucco adorn the walls, reflecting the riad’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship. Each suite offers open fires, perfect for creating a cozy ambiance, as well as Bose iPhone docks and on-demand movies for entertainment. Guests can also indulge in Molton Brown bath products. Some suites feature four-poster beds and marble bathrooms complete with sunken fossil bathtubs. Complimentary djellabah, traditional Moroccan robes, are provided for each guest to wear during their stay and take home as a unique souvenir.
However, what truly sets Riad Farnatchi apart from other luxury accommodations is its unparalleled five-star service. The staff are dedicated to exceeding expectations, ensuring that every guest’s needs are met with utmost care and attention. Nothing is too much trouble, whether it’s arranging breakfast at midday, a full hammam treatment with argan-seed scrub and rhassoul clay in the spa, or a perfectly mixed drink.
The riad’s restaurant, Le Trou au Mur, is a culinary highlight, featuring its own méchoui oven used to prepare slow-roasted lamb. The concierge is a valuable resource, providing expert advice on how to make the most of your time in Marrakesh and assisting with arranging airport pick-ups and drop-offs.
## Villa des Orangers: A Harmonious Blend of French Elegance and Moroccan Charm
Located near the imposing 12th-century minaret of the Koutoubia mosque and just a ten-minute walk from the bustling Jemma el-Fna, Villa des Orangers offers a harmonious blend of refined French elegance and captivating Moroccan charm. The villa is spread across two early 20th-century mansions, creating an expansive and luxurious environment. It features two large courtyards, one shaded by a namesake orange grove and another boasting a large pool surrounded by olive trees, creating tranquil and inviting spaces.
Intricately carved stucco, zellij mosaic tilework, and tadelakt are prominent features throughout the villa, paying homage to Moroccan craftsmanship. A muted color palette creates a contemporary and sophisticated ambiance in the rooms, which are equipped with smart TVs, Nespresso machines, and minibars. The spa offers all-natural NUXE treatments, providing a rejuvenating experience. A delicious breakfast featuring fresh fruit salad, homemade jams, and flaky pastries is served each morning. Furthermore, lunch, soft drinks, and airport transfers are all included in the room rates.
## Riad Kniza: A Warm Welcome to a Family Treasure
At Riad Kniza, tucked away just inside the Bab Doukkala gate in an easy-to-find corner of the medina, you’ll be greeted with the warmest of welcomes. This riad has been in the same family for two centuries. The current owner, Mohamed Bouskri, a prominent antique dealer and VIP tour guide, has brought unique details to this amazing accommodation. He enlisted master craftsmen to meticulously decorate the riad, filling it with a museum’s worth of treasures, resulting in a lavish and authentically Moroccan atmosphere. The eleven rooms and suites feature silky tadelakt walls, luxurious Berber rugs, intricate lanterns, and rich fabrics in shades of gold and crimson.
Everything at Riad Kniza has a personal touch. The library, where a fire crackles in the winter, provides a cozy retreat. The quiet spa offers a sanctuary for relaxation, and private dinners can be arranged with advance notice as the chef shops fresh for the ingredients.
## La Sultana: A Palatial Retreat with Panoramic Views
From the palatial roof terrace of La Sultana, guests can enjoy unparalleled views, peeking into the Saadian tombs next door and spotting the majestic Atlas peaks on clear days. What sets this cluster of five riads apart is its discreet yet attentive service, combined with a deep appreciation for detail and history. Each riad represents a different era, from the brick-built architecture of the Almohad dynasty to the extravagantly carved stucco and zellij tilework of the Saadian era.
The rooms are exquisite and, at times, eccentric, featuring decorative cedarwood, African objets d’art, and Roman temple-like marble bathrooms. Modern amenities are also thoughtfully included, such as iPhone docks, complimentary (non-alcoholic) minibars, and DVD players. The highly atmospheric spa, considered one of Marrakesh’s best, offers a “royal hammam” treatment. Fine Moroccan dining is served beside an arcaded poolside. La Sultana is a five-star experience.
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