Built around shaded courtyards and perfect for travellers seeking a peaceful alternative to the riotous medina or the bustling Jamaâ El Fna Square, here are nine of the best, most luxurious riads in Marrakech.
Riad Farhan
The Riad Farhan courtyard centres around an aquamarine plunge pool, overlooked by brightly upholstered seating areas, galleried walkways and cool, brightly-lit bedrooms. Guests will find plenty of space to relax and regroup, while still gaining an insight into life in one of Morocco's most enthralling cities.
Riad Le Bel Oranger
Just a 10-minute walk from Jamaâ El Fna Square, Riad Le Bel Oranger is a striking contrast to the busy outside world. Stepping through the heavy wooden doors, guests are immediately enthralled by the peaceful atmosphere of the riad’s cosy courtyard and the private Hammam.
Hotel & Spa Riad El Walaa
The brilliant white walls and intricately mosaiced accents at Riad El Walaa combine with woven hanging chairs to create a cosy, social atmosphere. Guests eat breakfast in the early morning sunshine or dinner by the candlelit central pool while listening to the Adhan (call to prayer) from a nearby Mosque.
Riad Spa Sindibad
While the Riad Sindibad has a beautifully serene and leafy courtyard, it’s the rooftop terrace that steals the show. With views of the lush Majorelle Garden and visually stunning Bab Yacout, breakfast on the roof of Riad Sindibad is an exercise in multitasking as guests balance admiring the scenery with remembering to eat the delicious Moroccan food.
Riad Soundouss
Filled with authentic Moroccan furniture, mosaics and painted ceilings, the Riad Soundouss is as much a visual feast as the nearby medina. In keeping with the traditional decor, the menu is full of Moroccan dishes, served in a dining area strewn with flower petals and filled with birdsong.
Riad Carina
In contrast to the cool, calm Arabic-style riads, Berber-style riads tend to use natural materials such as burnt brick, terracotta, clay and wood to create a more traditional atmosphere. Riad Carina is a great example of this architectural style, with its warm tones and flowering pergolas paying homage to the social aspects of Berber culture.
Riad Katia
The attention to detail at Riad Katia is evident in the hundreds of vividian tiles in the riad pool, the delicate wrought iron work of the balconies, and even the presentation of the breakfasts. Despite this visual tribute to the highly intricate nature of Islamic architecture, guests are often found recovering from their adventures in the leafy courtyard.
Riad & Spa Dar 73
Nowhere is the contrast between the hectic Marrakech medina and the serene riads more in evidence than at Riad Dar. Despite actually overlooking the medina, guests will find all the peace and relaxation they could ever need at this sunny riad. The all-white courtyard highlights the sumptuous greenery of the Rid Dar gardens and provides a soothing setting for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a candlelit swim in the pool.
Riad Olema et Spa
Stretching out on a sunlounger with a view of the Atlas Mountains and a glass of something cold to hand might sound like the ultimate form of relaxation, but the Riad Olema et Spa might just have topped it. While the mountain view and sunny patio are available to guests, this riad also has an indoor pool, wellness treatments, a sauna, steam room and a hot tub.