Sounds Of The Souks

Category: Accommodation in the medina

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

  • Riyadh Al Moussika

    A beautiful riad, above Pepe Nero Italian Restaurant.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I was fortunate enough to stay at Riyadh Al Moussika in the medina.

    The interior was absolutely spectacular as it was once home to the Pasha of Marrakech.

    The two courtyards were beautifully preserved and a haven of peace and tranquillity in the morning.

    The sound of birdsong and the gentle trickle of water from the fountains was a lovely way to begin each day.

    The riad is also a popular Italian restaurant called Pepe Nero, which I feature in a separate article.

    Once the restaurant is open for business, music is playing, but during the afternoon, between 4 and 6, it is peaceful and relaxing.

    The evenings can become livelier, so earplugs are a must if you wish to retire to bed early as the tempo of the music is slightly louder.

    I didn’t really find this an issue, and the restaurant closes at 11.30pm, becoming quiet very quickly afterwards.

    The rooms are huge and feel very noble.

    The blue suite is incredibly grand, fit for royalty.

    I stayed in the single room, and it was perfectly adequate for me with all the amenities I required.

    Rooms in riads are generally quite dark to keep them cool, but this is part of the authenticity of them.

    Riyadh Al Moussika is a very traditional riad, with intricate tilework adorning the water features and stunning plants, trees, and bougainvillaea climbing the walls.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is separated into private areas for guests, with sun loungers to absorb some  hot African sun.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It was a pleasurable experience, sipping a Disaronno and listening to the burbling fountain whilst gazing into the clear pool surrounded by exotic foliage.

    The location of Riyadh Al Moussika is also very good.

    It is in a quiet area with a small carpark close by.

    There are several restaurants and cafes situated a ‘stones throw’ away, including Mandala Society.

    The staff were very professional but still maintained a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

    They were helpful and polite at all times.

    Complimentary water and mint tea were available for guests each day, which was a nice touch.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The breakfast was a good start to each day and consisted of typical Moroccan sweet treats with the option of omelette also.

    Msemen pancakes, croissants,  cheese, fruit, and yoghurt, freshly squeezed orange juice, and coffee all served in the tranquil courtyard.

    I really enjoyed my stay in Riyadh Al Moussika and would highly recommend it.

    The music is definitely something to bear in mind if you are someone who likes to retire early, but as a solo traveller, it took away the feelings of isolation that can sometimes occur.

    Taking a pair of earplugs definitely helped.

    The excellent service and exquisite environment made up for the slight inconvenience of the bustling restaurant vibe.

    Riyadh Al Moussika can be located at;

    62 Derb Boutouil,

    Marrakech 40000

    Morocco.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com

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  • Riad Hikaya.

    A beautifully restored riad in the Kasbah district of Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It was purchased by an Englishman who spent 15 years restoring it because everything inside the riad is handmade.

    It is captivating and very pleasing to the eye.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Hikaya is not a budget riad.

    However, considering its aesthetics and the professionalism of the staff, it’s worth paying a little extra for.

    The breakfasts were very good and I ate there one evening and the meal was delicious.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There is a beautiful rooftop with several places to sit in the shade or soak up some of the hot, morroccan sun.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Kasbah is a great place to stay with more of an authentic feel about it.

    There are plenty of good restaurants, including The Clock, which is across the road from Riad Hikaya.

    There are shops and attractions such as El Badi Palace and the Saadian tombs to explore.

    I enjoyed staying amongst the locals in Kasbah, and it was a nice 15 – to 20-minute walk to the main square Jamaa El Fna.

    Riad Hikaya was a good choice, I loved the large copper bathtub in my room and the total piece and quiet the riad provided me with.

    If you’re looking for a lively scene, this place may not be for you. But if you want to disconnect from the busy touristic areas for a while, it’s a perfect retreat.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    For more information about here or other places to stay in Marrakech, drop me a message.

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riad Zouhour.

    A perfectly charming riad in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Zouhour is visually stunning with blue and white zellige tiles and exotic plants and trees adorning the courtyard and rooftop.

    Intricately carved wooden doors and ornate traditional window frames make this riad a sight to behold.

    Interior courtyard of riad Zouhour/images Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is an oasis of wonderful flowers, citrus trees, and tropical plants, with plenty of places to sit and admire the beautiful surroundings.

    There is also a small pool for cooling off in.

    The gardens are immaculate, and the pool is kept incredibly clean.

    You can tell this riad is a labour of love.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooms are very spacious and beautifully decorated in a traditional yet modern style, with large private bathrooms containing nice fragrant products for use in the shower.

    They are light and airy, unlike some of the darker rooms in other riads I have stayed in.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The food in riad Zouhour is also very good.

    I loved the vegetable tagine and seasonal salad that I had  on arrival at the riad.

    My flight was delayed, yet everything was still hot and beautifully presented despite the time of night I eventually arrived at the riad.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The staff are attentive and kind, going out of their way to make you feel welcome.

    Nothing is any trouble, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and professional.

    The riad exudes luxury, yet it’s affordable and in a strategic location close to the centre of all the action.

    It’s not difficult to see why Riad Zouhour is popular.

    It does get booked up quickly, so booking well in advance is recommended.

    As with most riads in the medina, they can also organise tours and excursions for you.

    The address is;

    33 Derb Snane,

    Medina 40000

    Marrakech Morocco.

    Check-in time is,

    00:00 until 23.30 hours.

    Check-out time is,

    5.00 until 00:00

    This is a riad I would highly recommend.

    It has been beautifully renovated whilst keeping all of its original charm.

    I enjoyed my stay here, and I wouldn’t hesitate to go back.

    I loved the views from the rooftop, the pretty flowers and plants, and I was treated really well by the kind staff.

    It truly is a gem in the busy medina, a haven of peace and tranquillity.

    Cleanliness is a priority here .

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are some places in Marrakech you just don’t want to leave.

    Riad Zouhour was one of those places.

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riad Bohemian Jungle.

    The Bohemian Jungle is a beautifully choreographed riad, close to the spice square in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Straight out of a tale from Arabian Nights, Riad Bohemian Jungle exudes charm and authenticity.

    The interior decor is simply captivating, with several magical nooks and crannies to sit and take in its splendour.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The little pool in the centre of the courtyard is ideal for cooling off in.

    The green tiles and exotic plants are stunning focal points of the riad.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is truly decadent. 

    There are pretty pink flowers, which drape into the courtyard below, plants and moroccan lanterns.

    A balinese bed for relaxing on and catching some sun rays, and a cerise, romantic boudoir area, where the staff play traditional tuareg music.

    There are areas to sit in the shade and relax with a book.

    This is perfect for when the hot morroccan sun reaches its highest temperature in the day.

    The riad lives up to its name. It certainly is a jungle.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The riad is run by young men from the Sahara region, and they enjoy sharing their fascinating culture with guests.

    The breakfasts are varied and wholesome, consisting of a mix of traditional pancakes, honey, and jam.

    Fresh bread, fruit, yoghurt, and eggs.

    Fresh orange juice and coffee.

    Image Freebird Tracey.

    When you arrive at the riad, you are treated to the complimentary mint tea and biscuits, whilst you are given useful advice and a map to help you navigate the souks.

    Sunrise from the rooftop of the Bohemian Jungle/image Freebird Tracey.

    This becomes helpful for finding your way back to the riad.

    The fragrance inside the riad is intoxicating as orange blossom, and cinnamon oil gently floats on the air.

    During the evening, lamps glow, and traditional Berber music plays subtly in the background.

    I never wanted to leave.

    I was so happy sitting inside the riad, taking in its beauty and experiencing the wonder of such a magnificent place.

    Riad Bohemian Jungle gets booked up quickly.

    If you are looking for TVs or a modern, luxurious style of accommodation you won’t find it here.

    This is an eclectic, boho environment that lives up to its name.

    Riad Bohemian Jungle is all about experiencing true, authentic riad culture, lost in time with the distant echos of camel traders and a strong spirit of the past.

    It is close to the Madrasa Ben Youssef, Marrakech museum, and several nice shops and restaurants.

    The address is;

    Derb al Maada

    Hay azbezte

    39 Medina, Medina 40030

    Marrakech, Morrocco.

    Excursions to the Sahara desert and other popular places of interest can also be arranged by this riad.

    They are good value for money and well organised.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Monriad.

    A peaceful, fragrant riad in the heart of the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The first time I visited Marrakech, I stayed in Monriad.

    This is where my love affair with the medina began.

    I had no idea what to expect and was absolutely amazed at the wonderful experience I had staying in a traditional riad for the first time.

    Monriad was so pretty.

    The courtyard was tranquil, and the sound of the trickling water and birds singing was blissful.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The owner and her staff were friendly and helpful, greeting me with the ultimate respect and offering traditional mint tea with olives on arrival.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I was given helpful advice about the area surrounding the riad and popular excursions I might wish to book.

    She also suggested that I could eat dinner in the riad with the other guests and recommended places of interest close by.

    The rooftop was glorious, and watching the sunrise up there each morning really was a blessing.

    Captured by Freebird Tracey.

    My room was impeccable, with traditional and good quality furniture and a beautiful bathroom with a traditional basin.

    The riad smelt amazing. Cleanliness was a top priority for the staff.

    There was a large, traditional, carved wooden door into the riad. I wasn’t given my own set of keys, but it was never a problem.

    I did eat dinner once inside the riad, and the food was quite good. It was popular with other guests who seemed to really enjoy dining inside the riad.

    The breakfast was very good.

    Monriad is tucked away down a quiet little street.

    It’s a pleasant, safe area with several cats and kittens who have also made the surrounding streets their home.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Monriad is close to Jamaa El Fna and points of interest, such as Bahia Palace, yet it is peaceful and secluded.

    It is considered a mid price riad but has still maintained a family and welcoming feel about it.

    It remains my mission to stay in as many different riads as possible in Marrakesh, but I would definitely consider returning to Monriad.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Monriad can be found at the address below,

    N. 4 Derb Lahbasse, Riad

    Zitoun Lakdim, Marrakech 40000 Morocco.

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  • Riad Blue Berber

    A 17th-century riad in a great location.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Blue Berber is an authentic traditional riad in a strategic location.

    It is close to the Bahia Palace, Dardar, La Pegola, Tinsmiths Square, and plenty of shops.

    It is situated on a popular side of the medina that is lively and central to many popular sightseeing spots.

    Riad Blue Berber has a very pretty courtyard, and the rooms are authentic.

    There is a more intimate feel about this riad because it’s slightly smaller.

    The owner, Habi, is a very knowledgeable man who enjoys a chat with his guests. He is very hospitable, and the riad has a very homely feel about it.

    Mona, the cook doesn’t speak English, but every morning, she prepares a big, hearty breakfast for the guests.

    She still manages to interact well despite the language barrier.

    The riad can organise tours and cooking classes are available to teach you how to create a traditional tagine.

    The rooftop is large with different tiers and was being modernised during my stay.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The views across the medina are excellent, and waking up to the sound of birds chirping in the courtyard below was a lovely way to begin the day.

    I always felt safe walking to and from Riad Blue Berber even at night time.

    The area feels very safe with plenty going on.

    This is a bonus, especially for solo female travellers.

    The traditional 17th century tiles on the floor of the courtyard give Riad Blue Berber character and charm.

    There are four rooms, three of the rooms have air conditioning, and the other two have fans and heaters.

    It is approximately only 200 metres away from Jamaa El Fna, yet once inside, it is peaceful and calm.

    The address is;

    5 Derb Jdid, Riad Zitoun Lakdim, kadim، 40040, Morocco.

    Staff at the riad will happily look after your luggage after checkout time.

    It’s small personal details like this that make staying in a place extra special.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riad Jardin Lea.

    A comfortable riad with friendly staff.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Lea is a traditional mid priced riad only 10 minutes walk away from the main square.

    There are 5 suites, and they are authentically Moroccan and comfortable with all the amenities available for a pleasant stay in the medina.

    The courtyard is peaceful with the sound of birds singing as you sit having breakfast in the morning.

    It’s a quiet, relaxing setting away from the busy touristy area, yet only a short walk away from all the action.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is a great place for a spot of sunbathing, and there is also a jacuzzi, which is clean and well looked after.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The staff at Riad Lea are friendly and attentive.

    They even offered me some of their food whilst they were breaking their fast during Ramadan.

    It’s these little gestures that make a traditional riad such a charming place to stay.

    There are more modern luxury riads than riad Lea, but it’s the personal touches that stand out for me.

    The staff at Riad Lea made sure that their guests felt comfortable and happy.

    There was a nice, calm atmosphere in the riad, and everyone seemed to be happy.

    Reaching the riad was like heading down a hobbit hole through the narrow winding alleyway.

    The doorway was not made for tall people, but once you got used to it, you soon remembered to duck.

    This is typical of most riads in the medina and part of their charm.

    The breakfast at Riad Lea was a typical Morroccan breakfast, a mixture of sweet and savoury food.

    I loved their homemade yoghurt and msemen pancakes.

    The walk to the main square is enjoyable, passing by lots of interesting little shops and restaurants along the way.

    I enjoyed my stay at Riad Lea. It’s not a fancy 5 star accommodation, but it’s good value for money.

    It was clean and comfortable, and the staff were a credit to the riad.

    Riad Lea can be found at,

    41 Derb Sidi Bou

    Amar Marrakech 40000.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riad Laila.

    A luxury riad on the outskirts of the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Laila is a stunning riad with the most beautiful courtyard.

    It is larger than most riads, and the pretty garden is full of exotic plants, mandarin trees, and hibiscus.

    There is a large swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

    The rooms are tastefully furnished, modern, and luxurious.

    Riad Laila was recently  renovated and refurbished.

    The rooftop is very pretty and a great spot for sunbathing or relaxing with a refreshing mint tea looking at the views over the medina.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Laila is the perfect riad for people who are looking for a luxurious spa like  experience in Marrakech.

    The staff exude professionalism and wear uniforms.

    They keep a keen eye on the guests, and the place is run with an air of precision.

    Everything is spotlessly clean. It’s a place where you can spend ages just relaxing by the pool in peace and tranquillity reading a book.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Laila is a high-end accommodation at the most northern side of the medina.

    It is close to the bus station and around a 25-minute walk from the centre.

    The Jardin Majorelle is a short walk away.

    Raid Laila was lovely for a couple of days, but I did miss the charm of a traditional family run riad inside the medina.

    It all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.

    If it’s a complete, restorative setting in beautiful surroundings, Riad Laila is ideal.

    There is food served at the riad, but the vegetarian options appeared to be limited at the time I stayed there.

    My overall impression was that everything felt slightly clinical and lacked the laid-back, homely feel that Marrakech is known for.

    However, if you’re looking for a complete break away from the excitement and sensory overload of the medina, Riad Laila is a good choice of accommodation.

    It is visually appealing and has one of the nicest gardens boasting 840m2.

    They have a resident tortoise called Laila who loves you to feed her hibiscus flowers.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The surrounding streets are very quiet, so I preferred taking a taxi to the main square in the evening.

    It’s a long walk in the heat also, but taxis are readily available.

    Riad Laila is at,

    104 Diour Jdad

    Zaouia Abbassia

    Marrakech 40000.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riad Dombaraka

    A peaceful oasis on the edge of the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It has a beautiful courtyard with a small pool for guests to cool down in.

    The plants are exquisite, and listening to the birds singing amongst the foliage is blissful.

    Every inch of riad Dombaraka is tastefully decorated with beautiful paintings and furniture.

    It feels as if you are staying in a royal palace.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is spacious with great views. It’s great for sunbathing with plenty of spaces to sit soaking up the hot, morroccan sun.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There is a wonderful library with an assortment of books and fine furnishings.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The riad is kept spotlessly clean, and the staff are friendly and happy as they go about their job.

    Riad Dombaraka is owned by a French woman called Dominique, who gives her guests the warmest welcome on arrival.

    She suggests places to eat and visit, also arranging transport through the souks in order for the guests to get to them.

    I always felt safe and well looked after.

    The breakfast was lovely. It was traditional Morroccan food with plenty of variety and very filling.

    Riad Dombaraka is not particularly budget accommodation, but it is definitely good value for money.

    It is an elegant riad whilst maintaining its traditional character and charm.

    Guests are offered fresh water for free and regularly asked if they would like a pot of mint tea.

    Relaxing by the pool, listening to soft music and birds singing, you would never know the craziness of the Souks are literally a stones throw away outside the door.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Outside the riad door, there is still evidence of the earthquake in 2023.

    There are locals selling vegetables and fish, giving a true picture of morroccan life.

    Inside the riad, you experience a whole different world. One of decadence and serenity.

    I highly recommend Riad Dombaraka.

    It is absolutely stunning, and guests are treated well.

    It’s like staying in a warm, homely environment, and the food is delicious.

    The address is,

    47.Derb El Qadi medina. Medina Azbezt 40030

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    For information on places to stay or eat in Marrakech, contact me:

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riad Persephone.

    A pretty riad close to Jemaa El Fna.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    This is a large riad located very close to the main square. It has a pretty courtyard with beautiful plants and a large swimming pool.

    The colour of the walls is a lovely blue like that of Jardin Marjorelle and works really well against the lush green foliage and tiled flooring.

    The rooftop is large with plenty of seating and a warm jacuzzi for guests to use.

    Lit up in the evening, the rooftop looks incredibly pretty.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The square is visible from the rooftop, and you can hear the lively sounds of everything going on there until late at night.

    I chose a room on the rooftop. It was exceptionally pretty and decorated in a beautiful Saffron colour.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    For some people,  the close proximity to the main square may be perfect.

    For light sleepers, you may find the early morning call to pray rather loud, and the noise from the busy square may be a bit of a problem during the nighttime.

    The sound of the food stalls being dismantled can be heard until the early hours of the morning.

    I would recommend taking ear plugs.

    Riad Persephone has a rustic charm, and some areas are a little bit tired and in need of a face-lift.

    However, if you prefer a traditional style of riad, this is what you will get but at a high-end price.

    This is largely due to its location and the view of Jamaa El Fnaa from the rooftop.

    The riad offers activities for their guests, such as quad biking and Agafay desert, and has a hammam.

    Riad Persephone is situated close to some nice restaurants and shops.

    It is a vibrant and colourful riad with a few cosy little nooks to sit and relax.

    Images by Freebird Tracey

    If you’re looking for a traditional riad,there are several riads that have excellent customer service at a more affordable price.

    It all depends on whether you want to be overlooking the action in the main square or not.

    Overall, Riad Persephone is aesthetically pretty and very comfortable.

    There are a lot of steps up to the rooftop, so people with mobility issues may struggle with that.

    The address for Riad Persephone is;

    17 Derb Zaari

    Marrakech 40000

    Morocco.

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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