Riad Dombaraka

An oasis in the medina.

Riad Dombaraka feels like an oasis inside the walls of the medina. It has a peaceful courtyard with beautiful tall trees and lush foliage. There is a small pool for guests to cool down in, which has an exercise bike in the centre. Birds sing in the treetops, and the setting is calm and serene.

Riad Dombaraka is tastefully decorated and includes elegant paintings and furniture. There are African artefacts and oriental influences throughout the rooms. There is a library with books for guests to read. This is a relaxing area furnished with leather seats, lamps, and Moroccan furniture.

The rooftop terrace is tiered, offering great views across the city. There are plenty of spaces to sit and relax and sunbeds for soaking up some sun. The area is quiet, and the only sound is the call to prayer.

Riad Dombaraka is owned by a French woman called Dominique. She gives guests the warmest welcome when they arrive. She suggests places where they can eat and visit and will order tuktuks to take them there.

The breakfast at Riad Dombaraka was excellent. There are msemen pancakes, eggs, fresh fruit, yoghurt and cakes. The coffee was real coffee and gave me the boost I needed to motivate me in the morning.

Riad Dombaraka is a hidden gem. It is located down a few winding alleyways where locals sell vegetables and fish, giving me a picture of authentic morroccan life. I felt safe in the area despite it appearing run down. There is evidence of the catastrophic earthquake that took place in Marrakech in 2023 and ongoing work to restore the area. Behind the door of the riad was a different world. One that is calm and peaceful.

Riad Dombaraka has good value for money. It is stylish and elegant, yet manages to maintain its traditional character and charm. Personal touches, such as offering guests gratuitous water and making them a pot of mint tea, make all the  difference in this riad. I would definitely recommend staying here.

I appreciated the tranquillity of the courtyard and the way guests are made a priority. The attention to detail and the impeccable cleanliness were also impressive. Staff looked happy to be part of a friendly and professional team and always had big smiles.

Relaxing by the side of the pool, listening to the gentle background music playing, you would never know the busy souks are a stones throw away.

Riad Dombaraka is not far from Ben youssef Madrasa, Marrakech Museum, and the Spice square. The address is 47.Derb El Qadi medina. Medina Azbezt 40030.