The world of riads in Marrakech, where traditional charm meets modern comfort. These unique accommodations, once traditional houses, have been transformed into serene havens amidst the bustling city. in this article, we will introduce you to the top three riads that embody the essence of Marrakech. From beautiful gardens to stunning architecture, each riad has been thoughtfully curated to offer a truly exceptional experience. Join us as we explore the understated elegance and tranquility that awaits you in these remarkable riads, where the rich heritage of Marrakech converges with contemporary luxury.
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Riad de Tarabel: A Timeless Oasis of Luxury and Tranquility
In the heart of the enchanting Medina district, where antique shops and the Dar El Bacha Palace adorn the surroundings, rests a truly remarkable gem: Riad de Tarabel. This colonial-style mansion exudes a harmonious blend of elegance and charm, boasting tree-lined courtyards, sun-drenched terraces, inviting lounges, and cozy nooks. Its décor seamlessly combines subtle hints of Moorish architecture with the opulence of the Second French Empire.
Riad de Tarabel is a haven for connoisseurs and pleasure-seekers, enveloped in an air of discretion and refined luxury. Like a magnificent cape, it reveals its splendor to those privileged enough to experience it firsthand, as its allure, grace, and softness can only be truly appreciated by those who have the pleasure of indulging in its offerings. It is a gift from one discerning soul to another—an invitation to embark on a journey through time.
Each room within this riad is a Proustian passport to a bygone era, transporting guests into a realm of exquisite dreams and delightful idleness. Vintage photographs, captivating prints, cherished family heirlooms, exotic birds of paradise, and antiques from around the world create an ambiance of nostalgic charm, evoking the golden age of the ochre city.
Peace, tranquility, serenity, and beauty define this extraordinary establishment, where the sole privilege is to offer guests an unforgettable escape from the modern world. In the courtyard of this traditional house, bathed in natural light, the scents of eucalyptus, orange blossom, and the seven-plant ghassoul lure you into the most precious rendezvous—the one with your own soul.
The ritual of the hammam introduces you to the art of the traditional Moroccan bath, soothing both body and mind. Drawing upon age-old techniques, expertly executed massages transport you to a realm of absolute relaxation and novel sensations. The facial treatments, enriched with natural oils and essences sourced from the bountiful Moroccan land, further enhance this unforgettable journey at Les Bains de Tarabel—a truly magical sanctuary where time stands still, inviting you to indulge in the sweetest reverie.
Riad de Tarabel is an exceptional retreat that leaves an indelible impression, offering guests a sensory escape that is as timeless as it is enchanting.
El Fenn: Marrakech’s Luxurious Hideaway
El Fenn, where luxury and authenticity intertwine, offers a unique experience that combines the comforts of a boutique hotel with the warm embrace of a home away from home. With its 41 individually styled rooms and suites, three inviting swimming pools, a sprawling 1,300 square meter roof terrace, rejuvenating spa, two vibrant cocktail bars, two enticing restaurants, and even a family of resident tortoises, El Fenn serves as the perfect hub for discovering the captivating beauty of Marrakech.
What sets El Fenn apart is its origin as a serendipitous venture, born from the unexpected path of its visionary founders who never intended to open a hotel. This essence of a home away from home permeates every aspect of the experience. Whether you choose to lounge on a sun-kissed day bed or witness the breathtaking sunset over the Atlas Mountains, El Fenn welcomes you every day, offering refreshing juices, cocktails, and delectable food—a buzzing ambiance that enlivens the nights.
To access the magnificent rooftop, venture through the boutique entrance on Rue Fatima Zahra and make your way upstairs to indulge in delicious drinks and culinary delights. The Colonnade Cafe, a splendid space reserved exclusively for in-house guests, serves EL FENN signature breakfast and lunch against the backdrop of a courtyard adorned with cascading vines and a stunning marble-lined swimming pool. Recently unveiled in October 2022, the cafe truly comes alive during Moroccan-themed evenings from Wednesday to Sunday, tantalizing taste buds with authentic cuisine, including aromatic tagines, succulent grilled fish and meats, accompanied by vibrant salads, all showcasing the finest local and seasonal produce. Prior booking is essential, ensuring that each dish is freshly prepared to order.
El Fenn embraces a relaxed ambiance, which extends to the culinary offerings. While emphasizing local, seasonal, plant-based fare, we also cater to meat and fish enthusiasts. Each dish is a vibrant celebration of freshly harvested fruits and vegetables sourced from local farms and markets, enhanced with fragrant herbs, exotic spices, and aromatic aromatics. The result is a culinary journey bursting with freshness, flavors, and wholesome goodness.
Among the medina’s limited number of hotels with swimming pools, El Fenn proudly boasts not just one, but three magnificent pools. Bask in the sunshine by the rooftop pool, enjoying the awe-inspiring view of the Koutoubia mosque and the rooftops of Marrakech. Alternatively, take a refreshing dip in the plunge pool, or venture downstairs in the lap pool and spa pool, both lined with exquisite Carrara marble.
El Fenn captures the essence of indulgence, authenticity, and tranquility, providing an enchanting haven where every moment is a celebration of the senses.
La Sultana Marrakech: A Majestic Moroccan Haven
Nestled in the Kasbah, at the core of Marrakech, lies La Sultana Marrakech—an authentic Moroccan adventure in its own right. The masterfully crafted patios, lush gardens, and rooftop vistas overlooking the city make it a prime location near historic landmarks such as the Saadian Tombs, the Royal Palace, and the Bahia Palace—all within the UNESCO-listed Medina. With 28 uniquely designed rooms and suites adorned with exquisite artworks and art collections, luxuriant gardens at the heart of the Kasbah, a heated pool, a sprawling 2,000 square meter roof terrace showcasing architectural treasures, a rejuvenating spa with treatment rooms, two remarkable restaurants, a cocktail and mezze bar, a well-equipped gym, and a terrace dedicated to cooking classes, La Sultana Marrakech promises an unforgettable stay.
The vibrant pulse of Marrakech resonates within La Sultana, with the Moulay El Yazid Mosque just a short 10-minute stroll away from the renowned Djemaa El-Fnaa Square—the beating heart of the city. Hidden from prying eyes, the hotel unveils panoramic views that stretch from nearby souks to the distant majesty of the Atlas Mountains.
The hotel’s Conciergerie serves as the gateway to sensory immersion, offering urban safaris and guided heritage tours that wind through the ochre city. Shaped by centuries of history under the Almohad, Saadian, and Alaouite dynasties, La Sultana embarked on a mission in 2001 to revive the legends of bygone eras. Its exceptional location near the Royal Palace in the Kasbah neighborhood, an esteemed UNESCO World Heritage site, adds to its allure as an extraordinary destination.
In collaboration with Historic Monuments, skilled artisans meticulously revived the architectural heritage of the Medina, breathing new life into the past. Former granary vaults, once used to supply the royal family, were transformed into enchanting patios. Terraces on the upper floors offer breathtaking views of the magnificent Saadian Princes’ Mausoleum. Throughout the exemplary restoration process, decorative arts take center stage, with wrought metal, sculpted wood, zellige tiling, and noble materials creating an ambiance that transcends time, embodying the eternal beauty of Morocco.
La Sultana’s culinary exploration goes beyond taste, emphasizing the harmony between healthfulness and generosity. The restaurant menus reflect the seasons, and in their laboratory-kitchens, nature’s spirit is harnessed to create sumptuous dishes. Fresh produce carefully selected from the vegetable gardens in Oualidia and Marrakesh, along with responsibly sourced fish from the Oualidia lagoon, capture the vibrant flavors of market-fresh ingredients. The Executive Chef and the kitchen brigade infuse their cuisine with instinct, meticulous attention to detail, and harmonious presentation—a perfect blend of French-style dining culture and Moroccan hospitality.
Indulge in a pause of self-indulgence and immerse yourself in a dreamlike Orient at the pink marble haven of the Spa at La Sultana Marrakech. Combining elements of a Roman spa and an enchanting Oriental oasis, expert hands guide you towards profound relaxation and self-discovery. The Moroccan way of life, deeply rooted in eternal beauty and a culture of wellness, comes to life through time-honored traditions of hammams, massages, botanicals, and essential oils, offering a unique fusion of preventive healthcare and natural benefits.
The institute offers facial treatments from the renowned Darphin range, adding radiance to everyday beauty rituals. The upper terraces provide spaces for Pilates, gym workouts, and yoga sessions, fostering balance, conscious breathing, and natural concentration. This wellness dimension extends to well-balanced menus that allow guests to reconnect.
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