The best way to immerse yourself in the culture of Marrakech.
No-one should come to Marrakech and miss out on the wonderful experience of staying in a riad.
If you truly want a taste of authentic Moroccan life, spending time in a riad with traditional zellige tiles and the sound of trickling water from the fountain in the central courtyard will give you just that.
Riads are the homes once lived in by the well-to-do of Marrakech.
They are built around a central courtyard with the windows facing inwards and have citrus trees and lush foliage in the middle, reaching up through the open rooftop.
Many have a small pool for cooling off in, and most of them still have their original fountains.
The rooftop can be reached by climbing the steep tiled steps, where you will be greeted by colourful seating areas to escape from the heat and admire the incredible views of the medina.
The rooms are traditionally decorated in Moroccan lamps and Berber artefacts, which include colourful traditional rugs,cushions, and exquisitely handcrafted furniture.
I prefer mid-range riads because they still maintain their original appearance, and it’s like being immersed in a tale from 1001 nights.
Some of the original tiles from hundreds of years ago are still visible, and they exude character.
The higher priced riads are also very beautiful but are modernised to cater to tourists.
They include bidets and television sets in the rooms.
All riads are charming, and it all depends on whether you favour luxury over authenticity.
My choice of riad is a family owned property, one that still has it’s old world charm and feels as though I’m staying with a Moroccan family.
A 1001 Arabian Nights experience.
Most riads cook delicious home cooked food for their guests and offer cooking lessons.
There is also a hammam available in most riads.
This is a wonderful experience, and something everyone who comes to Marrakech should indulge in at least once.
Rooms in a riad are usually slightly dark inside.
This keeps them cool in the summer when temperatures can exceed 50°
Waking up to the sound of birds singing in the trees and the gentle flowing of water burbling from the fountain is such a wonderful start to the day.
The early morning sunshine reflecting off the beautifully tiled floors, puts you in a happy mood for the day.
Most riads provide their guests with a hearty breakfast, which is sweeter than we are used to in the west.
Some riads cook omelettes, and there is always fresh orange juice and homemade yoghurts and jams served with traditional bread.
The msemen pancakes served with honey and amlou are my absolute favourite.
I love sunbathing on the rooftop, listening to the call to prayer from the Koutoubia mosque.
If you’re staying near Jamaa El Fna,you can hear the gnawa musicians and the drumming in the distance.
This is a true immersion in the culture of Marrakech.
In the evening, I like to watch the sunset from the rooftop.
At dusk, Jamaa El Fnaa comes alive with thousands of visitors.
You can hear the vendors calling out to beckon tourists into their food stalls.
The aroma of the food cooking catches your breath.
Back in the courtyard, you feel as though you are in an oasis.
This calm and peaceful environment is a far cry from what is happening outside the big, heavy wooden door of the riad.
The sound of gentle music plays quietly in the background, creating a sense of tranquillity.
Staff at the riad can suggest places where you can eat and also arrange popular excursions for their guests.
They are eager to please their guests and go above and beyond the call of duty.
Staying in a traditional riad has a more intimate feeling than a hotel does.
I like to spend a few days having what I call, a riad experience..
Enjoying the culture of Marrakech like a true local.
Whichever type of riad you choose to stay in, you won’t be disappointed.
Whether it’s a former palace or a family owned business, it’s one of the most delightful experiences you can have whilst visiting Marrakech.
Sounds Of The Souks 