Marrakesh
Hotel of the Week: Riad Zina
Fancy a city break in Marrakech? That’s probably a silly question – who wouldn’t want to visit this hotbed of culture and history at the gateway to North Africa? If you’re considering spending a lot of your time in the historic city, Zina is a riad in Marrakech’s heart – ideal for exploring the city.
Hotel: Riad Zina
Address: 38 Derb Assabane, Riad Laarouss, 40008 Marrakech Medina
Rating: ***
Riad Zina is a 350-year-old family house converted into a riad in 1998. Just north of Marrakesh’s ancient medina, this is the perfect base from which to experience the many attractions of the city and beyond.
When the riad was renovated by owner Beate Prinz, the guest house’s original architecture was preserved and the resultant feel is very much of a traditional Moroccan house with the added benefit of modern comforts.
Many worlds are fused together for a leisurely and relaxing atmosphere, contemporary furnishings and original features blending seamlessly. In the Alkamar Suite cedar wood ceilings and intricate plasterwork remain from the original house, while elsewhere throughout the riad Beate displays the work of modern Moroccan artists.
The whitewashed walls and ochre tadlekt are contrasted with retro furnishings from 1970s France and lovingly collected from local flea markets.
Outside, there is a traditional Islamic garden and courtyard with some gigantic cacti that have to be seen to be believed – they’re as high as the roof of the riad. There is also a fountain full of fresh roses around which there is seating for you to relax. There’s also a resident tortoise who’s always eager to meet guests.
The main square of Marrakech is just 20 minutes walk away and here there are plenty of places to experience traditional Moroccan cuisine. Within the riad itself, authentic Moroccan meals are available and if you wish you can get involved in the preparation of these meals.
Friendly and knowledgeable, the staff are always willing to recommend and help organise excursions for guests. Horse riding, swimming, golf and spa trips are just a few examples, and if you happen to be celebrating a special occasion during your trip to Morocco, they will be more than happy to organise celebrations for honeymoons, birthdays and the like.
Morocco Gateway offers special rates for guests at Riad Zina. For more information, contact us via our booking enquiry page.
We also have many special offers on Marrakesh hotels and riads.
Hotel of the week: Riad El Cadi
Fancy a Moroccan holiday in a riad steeped in culture? If visiting museums and antiquing are among your favourite pastimes, a hotel full of artefacts will suit your perfectly. El Cadi, a riad in Marrakesh, is that hotel.
Hotel: Riad El Cadi
Address: 87 Derb Moulay Abdelkader, Dabachi, Medina, Marrakech
Rating: ***
The central building of Riad El Cadi was originally a 14th Century house owned by a nobleman. Far later, a former German ambassador combined that dwelling with seven surrounding buildings to create a larger than average riad.
The result is a spacious and winding guesthouse and a meander through the courtyards, staircases and corridors of the seven houses providing the perfect view of ancient Moroccan architecture.
Clay pots, watercolour paintings and prints – artefacts you’d expect to find in a museum – line the walls of the 12 guest rooms, but there’s more. Not only are early Berber textiles, Islamic and Byzantine art worked into the rooms, there are also many pieces of modern art produced by friends of the ambassador.
Outside in the courtyard there are alcoves perfect for reading and relaxing and there are plenty of shady areas to take a break from the sun. There’s also a roof terrace where you can sunbathe, with sun shades available, overlooking the medina.
Just minutes from the main Jemaa el Fna square, Riad El Cadi offers all the benefits of a city centre riad while remaining quiet and peaceful.
Because of the design of the building, many of the guest suites interconnect, making it ideal for groups and families travelling together. Many of the suites have a private balcony or access to the courtyard.
For those requiring a more intimate room, the petite suite is a cosy choice, while the Blue House is a good choice for groups who want to stay together, with two bedrooms, kitchenette and own courtyard.
Riad El Cadi serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The former meals are usually light in style, while dinner is a three course affair. The cuisine is traditional Moroccan fayre with a few international touches. El Cadi’s chef can cater for a range of diets – including fussy eaters!
From the riad’s central location you can visit many of Marrakech’s attractions on foot, and the hotel can also arrange local activities such as tennis, golf and camel riding.
For special deals on Riad El Cadi, contact Morocco Gateway.
We can also offer a range of special offers on many Morocco riads and hotels.
Things to do in Morocco – interview with a tour guide
Pete Reed worked as a tour guide and driver in Morocco. Here he shares his recommendations for things to see and do on a trip to the North African country.
“The souks in Marrakech have to be seen to be believed,” says Pete. “They’re full of food, colourful spices and artisans selling leather goods and metal lanterns. These metal lanterns are very popular, you’ll see them all over Morocco.
“One of the best places to go in Marrakech itself is the Djemaa el Fna square, an open-air festival with drummers, storytellers, musicians and so on.”
Marrakech has a myriad attractions, including the amazing architecture of the Ben Youssef Medersa, the unmissable Koutoubia Minaret, the Jewish quarters and the Saadian Tombs. Especially in the summer, finding good refreshments are also essential.
“One of my favourite places is the grass Place et Mourabitoune,” Pete adds. “Here you can hire horse carriages and get your hands on the best ice cream in Morocco.”
Many visitors to Morocco will want to see not only the city but also the surrounding countryside.
“If you’re taking a driving holiday, the Tizi-n-Tichka pass from Marakech to Ait Benhaddou is a real drivers’ road,” comments Pete. “Be careful if you’re traveliing in the winter, though, it can get snowed up.”
Ait Benhaddou is a ksar or fortified city on the old caravan route between Marrakech and the Sahara Desert. A World Heritage Site, Ait Benhaddou will be familiar to film buffs – many movies have been shot there, including Lawrence of Arabia, Jesus of Nazareth, Time Bandits, The Mummy and Gladiator.
“For a more challenging drive, there’s the Tizi-n-Test pass, which is far smaller and windier,” Pete continues. “There’s an old mosque here that everyone – not just Muslims – is allowed inside, because it’s no longer in use. Though it’s abandoned, it’s fascinating for people who are into history and architecture.”
Care should be taken on this road as it is very narrow and windy in places, and local truck drivers travel at speed because they know the route very well. It’s best to proceed with caution as a tourist.
The journey is worth making, however. You’ll pass Mount Toubkal, the highest point in North Africa.
“Another place you should take a trip to from Marrakech is the Cascades D’Ouloud, the stunning tripple waterfall just a few hours from the city,” says Pete. “The falls are amazing and you can swim if you like.”
Travel down the coast and you will come to a city with a very different atmosphere.
“You have to go to Essaouira,” Pete enthuses. “It’s like a chilled-out version of Marrakech, about 100 miles down the coast.”
Essaouira means “image” and is certainly a picturesque location.
“It’s a walled city on the coast, with a crescent shaped beach where you can ride camels,” says Pete. “From there you can take a place on either a small or large boat to the islands off Essaouira; there’s a bird sanctuary there where you can see the Eleanor’s Falcon [an endangered species}.”
As for where to stay on your journey, Pete is clear:
“I recommend staying in Moroccan riads,” he says. “Essentially family homes, they are small and comfortable.”
For information on Moroccan riads in Marrakech, Essouira and beyond, visit Morocco Gateway.
Picture credits, from top – CCA: Mararkech, by reservasdecoches, Tizi-n-Tichka by zongo69, Sea at Essaouira by chigle
Visiting Marrakech in May
Coming in to land at Marrakech Menara airport in May, the view from the plane’s window is one that will take your breath away – especially if this is the first time you’ve visited Morocco in Spring.
First to catch your eye is the unique, complex and beautiful colour palette made up by Marrakech’s earth, fields and buildings – sun-faded oranges, ochres, dusty browns and nuanced pink and ivory hues.
But overlaid on this palette – both in irregular, mottled brush-strokes and geometric designs of agricultural fields – can be seen verdant springtime greens. At angles from the tilting aircraft these become luminous under the fixed gaze of the North African sun.
Once you’re on the ground you will be greeted by a kaleidoscope of springtime flowers that seem to have rushed themselves into life as if aware of the daily-increasing power of the sun, which will soon exhaust Morocco over the baking summer months ahead.
Whites and pinks of the lauriers, iridescent reds, purples, oranges of the bougainvilleas, royal yellows of the hibiscus, to the ice blues and violet pinks of the clematis – colours heightened by the backdrop of a mid-blue azur sky that is unblemished except for a few drifting, whispy cloud flourishes.
Take a moment to stand back and breathe in the cool springtime air of Morocco – lightly and intermittently perfumed by the smell of the flowers, a change from the heavier spice and fruit aromas that suffuse Marrakech air at the end of summer and autumn when the sun has relentlessly strained, sweated and squeezed the oils and fragrances out into the air.
For information on hotels and riads in Marrakech and beyond, visit Morocco Gateway.
Hotel of the Week: Riad El Villa Arsa
Tranquillity can be hard to come by – especially in the heart of Marrakech. But it’s all a question of knowing where to look. This week, we turn our attention to a hotel in Marrakech’s centre that’s peaceful enough to be located high in the mountains.
Hotel: Riad El Arsa
Region: Marrakech
Address: 18 Derb El Arsa, Kennaria Medina
Rating: **
So you’re looking for somewhere peaceful to stay. You want to relax during your holiday and find a nice little riad in Marrakesh that’s off the beaten track, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The chances are you’re thinking you will have to stay out of town, which while tranquil means a long journey should you want to pop down to the medina to visit a restaurant, souk or shop. But it need not necessarily be so.
Riad El Villa Arsa is a traditional Moroccan riad at the heart of the city of Marrakesh that successfully maintains a relaxed and peaceful environment. It’s important to note, if you’re travelling with a family, that part of the reason for this is that the hotel does not allow children under 14 years old to stay unless the entire riad is booked exclusively.
El Arsa is just minutes away from the medina with its multitude of attractions, although it can be a little hard to find at first because of its tucked away location. Therefore, it’s recommended that you make use of the ‘meet and greet’ service, where a member of staff will meet you at the airport and guide you straight to El Arsa’s door.
The enthusiastic, fluent English staff are one of the highlights of this riad. They are all too happy to help and provide advice on the best parts of Marrakech to explore. Should your wanderlust take you further afield, the riad’s staff can also arrange excursions and treks to the Atlas mountains, complete with a guide.
There are four bedrooms, which can be block booked for one party or reserved individually. All rooms are air conditioned and there are double and twin beds available (with an extra single bed in one of the rooms). The riad is tastefully decorated and benefits from Spanish influences in the decor – terracotta pots large enough to hide a man in pepper the courtyard, while the restaurant has a rustic feel.
Breakfast is included in the price of your stay and can be served on the roof terrace, courtyard or in the restaurant. You can also arrange lunch and dinner if required and can suggest food you’d like to try or leave it up to the staff.
The roof terrace is superb for sunbathing and overlooks the medina and snow-capped Atlas mountains. There’s also a plunge pool in the courtyard – perfect for chilling out on a hot day. Should you get too hot, or should the weather be unfavourable, there are two lounges available to relax in, complete with music to listen to and a library of books to browse.
Morocco Gateway can offer you special rates for your stay at Riad El Villa Arsa. Just follow the link to make a booking or enquiry.
We also have information on a wide range of Moroccan riads and hotels, including exclusive discounts.
Hotel of the Week: Riad Dar Ilham
Wouldn’t it be lovely to get away from the stresses and strains of working life and enjoy some proper relaxation? We certainly think so and the idea of being pampered in a luxurious Moroccan riad sounds like our idea of perfection. That’s why, for this week’s hotel of the week, we’ve chosen Riad Dar Ilham, a modern riad in Marrakech.
Hotel: Riad Dar Ilham
Region: Marrakech and region
Address: Oulad Hassoun douar Jallal Route de Fés, 40 000 Marrakech
Rating: ***
Riad Dar Ilham sits on the Marrakech to Fes road, meaning that it’s in a great location for transport links. However, once you’re in the riad you may not want to leave – the key here is relaxation and the sumptuous surroundings mean you cannot fail to enjoy some chill-out time.
Use of the hammam is included in the price of a regular stay, and on request you can arrange a four-day pampering programme – perfect to de-stress, detox and relax. Nawal, the riad’s resident beautician, will take expert care of you.
On the first day, you’ll enjoy a body scrub and full 30 minute relaxation massage. The second day includes a seaweed body wrap, a well recognised way of removing toxins from your system and also good for toning the skin. Toning work continues with a toning massage – ideal for tired muscles.
To revive the mind as well as the body, essential oils are the order of the day, along with a facial”
Day three and you should be feeling pretty relaxed and refreshed. To revive the mind as well as the body, essential oils are the order of the day, along with a facial to give you a truly radiant complexion. On day four, you can enjoy a henna envelopment and final relaxing massage – by now we guarantee your cares will have faded away.
All guests also have use of the outdoor Jacuzzi, located in an intimate corner of the sumptuous garden, which is filled with roses, and an oval-shaped swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers. There is a larger swimming pool at the nearby kasbah, which guests can use most of the time, although it is advisable to check first as the kasbah can sometimes be exclusively booked up.
On the rare occasions when weather is bad, or if you just want to get out of the sun for a few hours, there is an indoor lounge with an open fireplace, large television and good selection of board games.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are a good range of outdoor activities within easy reach of Dar Ilham. The hotel can arrange horse riding trips along the palm grove or SUV, buggy and quad bike rides around the Moroccan countryside. For a truly unique view of Marrakech and surrounding mountains, why not take to a hot air balloon ride? Balloon trips take off just 15km from the riad and can be booked through the hotel staff.
From paragliding to golf, there are a large range of sporting options available to you, while if you’re travelling with a sweetheart you can enjoy a night under the Moroccan stars in a bivouac.
If you’re travelling with a sweetheart, you can enjoy a night under the Moroccan stars in a bivouac”
Food lovers will be spoiled at Dar Ilham, where the menu is extensive and exquisite. The head waiter speaks English fairly well although guests may find difficulty in communicating with other staff. Guests will have the choice of soups, meat-based tagines, couscous dishes and seafood, while vegetarians can enjoy salads and vegetable tagines, all made from ingredients from the local market. Meals are usually served in the flowered courtyard or rose garden.
Wherever you are in the riad, you’ll feel close to nature. Five friendly tortoises share the garden space with guests and snake charmers regularly visit to practise their art.
Morocco Gateway can offer special deals on your stay at Dar Ilham and other riads in Marrakech.
To book your stay at Dar Ilham, click this link.
Hotel of the Week: AnaYela
March 4th is World Book Day, and to celebrate we’ve picked a hotel with a literary theme to take the spotlight as our first Hotel of the Week. Whether you’re a book worm, a writer seeking inspiration, or a modern day Heathcliff and Cathy in need of a romantic retreat, the AnaYela Riad in Marrakesh could be the one for you.
Hotel: AnaYela Riad
Region: Marrakesh
Address: 28 Derb Zerwal, 40000 Medina Marrakech
Rating: ****
AnaYela is a Moroccan riad that dates back 300 years. The name “AnaYela” means simply “I am Yela” and comes from a letter left behind by a young girl called Yela who fell in love and ran off from the house with a local boy. The story creates a romantic backdrop and means this Marrakesh riad is ideal for those seeking an amorous atmosphere, while the riad is also perfect for creative visitors seeking inspiration, being styled as it is around the Ana Yela tale. Engraved calligraphy runs across the doors and words are painted on the ceilings.
Renovated in 2007, AnaYela’s owners employed more than 100 local artisans using local materials such as wood and tadelakt to create a traditional environment by hand. This hand-crafted feel makes AnaYela stand out from other Marrakesh hotels.
The rooms remain elegantly dark and cool during the day and are gorgeously lit with candles in alcoves and lights under the beds. Following the literary theme, the rooms are called Chapters – two of which are located on the ground floor next to the swimming pool. On the first floor there are two ‘romantic’ chapters – which have a bath for two. Guests can even buy handmade candles from the hotel for that extra romantic touch. Honeymooners or those celebrating anniversaries can expect a specially decorated suite with roses, incense, a sensual bath for two with ½ bottle of champagne, music, candles, roses or a romantic dinner.
AnaYela’s owners seek to offer a cultural and sensual experience, which has been confirmed in a number of positive reviews, including Forbes Traveller rating AnaYela as “Morocco’s Sexiest Hotel.”
On arrival at AnaYela, guests will be greeted with a glass of milk and dates to welcome them into the family of the riad. Meals can be served outside on the big table for ten guests or the small table for four, both tables are arranged by the patio next to the pool. If guests prefer a view whilst they eat, the terrace tables (or Berber tent) are available, as is the ìFlying Carpetî tower richly draped in red offering one of the highest points in the city. In cooler weather the inside salons have tables and huge sofas which guests can be served at.
AnaYela’s resident storyteller will vividly describe the Ana Yela story in Arabic.”
For evening entertainment, AnaYela’s resident storyteller will vividly describe the Ana Yela story in Arabic. Trips can be arranged to the Atlas mountains, and there are golf courses and swimming pools nearby (though AnaYela has its own small pool). Spa treatments can also be booked by guests to have in their own rooms – a thoroughly relaxing experience.
As well as romantic breaks, this Marrakesh hotel is also perfect for business travellers to Morocco. Rooms can be arranged for business meetings and group work, complete with presentation facilities, under AnaYela’s workshop package. Laptops are available for free hire, and all guests are given a mobile phone for the duration of their visit, enabling them to stay in touch with taxi drivers and other staff.
AnaYela is just 15 minutes’ drive from Marrakesh airport, and 15 minutes walk from the city.
To find out more about AnaYela and the special rates Morocco Gateway can negotiate, follow this link: http://www.morocco-gateway.com/hotels/anayela.html