Sounds Of The Souks

Category: Riads In Marrakech

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

  • Pepe Nero Italian Restaurant.

    A popular Italian restaurant in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Pepe Nero is an exceptionally good restaurant tucked away on a quiet street in the medina.

    It is an Italian restaurant, but they also serve delicious Moroccan cuisine.

    The setting is absolutely stunning, with a pretty courtyard surrounded by beautiful foliage and gentle trickling fountains.

    I ate here a few times during my visit to Marrakech, and I enjoyed the food immensely on both occasions.

    The menu is creative, and they also have delicious pasta dishes suitable for vegetarians like myself.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I had pasta with truffle, and it was a delight on the senses, beautifully presented and cooked to perfection.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The desert menu is also good, with a fine selection of light deserts to compliment the main course.

    Alcohol is served, including a selection of wines, cocktails, and spirits.

    The ambience is relaxing with music playing in the background.

    It can get slightly livelier in the evening, but it never becomes overly stimulating and still maintains a sense of calm.

    Despite the music tempo, I never had to raise my voice to be heard. The atmosphere is still calm and conducive to a pleasant, romantic evening.

    Pepe Nero is open for lunch and dinner, and there are two courtyards as well as a nice enclosed dining area.

    Guests can sit around the pool where bougainvillaea drapes down the wall or in the second courtyard area with a couple of attractive fountains, burbling in the background.

    If the weather is cooler, the internal dining area is elegant and refined.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The staff at Pepe Nero are professional and friendly.

    They are knowledgeable and help you to make the right choices when choosing from the menu.

    The experience of eating here was worth every dirham..

    Good food, a beautiful, unpretentious environment, and excellent service combined to ensure the perfect dining experience.

    I would certainly recommend Pepe Nero if you enjoy Italian food and want a change from Tagine or couscous.

    There is a small car park close to the restaurant also.

    Pepe Nero is also a riad called Riyadh Al Moussika, I have written an article about staying here.

    Opening hours for the restaurant are;

    1.00pm until 4.00pm daily.

    6.00pm until 11.30 daily.

    The address is;

    17 Derb Cherkaoul

    Marrakech 40000 Morocco.

    Booking is advisable as this is a popular restaurant and can get busy, especially during the evening.

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

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It was purchased by an Englishman who spent 15 years restoring it.

    Riad Hikaya is a gorgeous riad located in the Kasbah district of Marrakech.

    It’s very beautiful inside, and the amount of work that has gone into restoring it is evident as soon as you walk through the door.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Hikaya is not considered a budget accommodation.

    However, considering its aesthetics and the professionalism of the staff, it’s worth paying a little bit extra to stay here.

    The breakfasts were really good and I ate my evening meal here one evening and the food was delicious.

    I had a three course meal, and it was freshly cooked.

    I sat at the edge of the pool to eat, admiring the stunning decor and the beautiful Moroccan lampshade that hung in the centre.

    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.

    It is a lovely space to relax with colourful couches and cushions and lush green plants growing along the walls.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

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

    There are fewer tourists, and the locals are friendly and welcoming.

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

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

    I enjoyed staying amongst the locals in the Kasbah, and it was an easy 20-minute walk to the main square, Jamaa El Fna.

    Riad Hikaya was a good choice of accommodation.

    I especially loved the large copper bathtub in my room and the total peace and quiet inside the riad

    If you’re looking for a lively scene, this place may not be for you.

    However, if you want to disconnect from the busy touristic areas for a while, it’s a perfect retreat.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    I stayed at Riad Hikaya in the winter, I expect it may be busier during the spring and summer months.

    The riad was warm and cosy, and I appreciated the way the room was heated to a nice  comfortable temperature.

    Some riads can be quite cold inside at this time of year.

    Riad Hikaya is a beautiful riad.

    The craftsmanship that’s gone into creating each piece of furniture and door is exceptional.

    The views of the snowcapped Atlas mountains in the morning are spectacular.

    I really enjoyed my winter break at this riad and would definitely return again.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • La Pergola Rooftop Bar.

    One of the places popular for cocktails in the medina

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    La Pergola rooftop bar is quite a little jungle.

    Situated in the medina, close to Jamaa El Fna, La Pergola is a popular restaurant serving food and alcohol including a great range of cocktails.

    The beautiful palm trees that grow up from the courtyard of Cafe Arabe make the ambience very tranquil and relaxing.

    It has a jungly, exotic ambience as you sit nestled amongst the palms.

    Part of Riad Monceau, La Pergola is open to the public and a very busy place, so booking for an evening meal or cocktails is recommended.

    It can be heaving with tourists due to its proximity to the main square.

    I spent an hour enjoying some peace and tranquillity during the afternoon, which is a much quieter time to visit than during the evening.

    I found it very relaxing sitting amongst the exotic trees and plants, listening to gentle background music.

    I enjoyed the fresh smoothies, which were beautifully presented with attention to detail.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Like most places serving alcohol in the medina, it is quite pricey.

    That is because Marrakech is a Muslim country, and alcohol is not widely consumed.

    The stunning surroundings of La Pergola make it worthwhile a visit, and although I didn’t try the food, the menu looked very good.

    I may be tempted to go again and indulge myself.

    Le Bistro Arabe is situated below  La Pergola in the courtyard.

    During the evening, they have live jazz musicians and serve food and alcohol.

    To get to La Pergola, you have to cross the courtyard of Le Bistro Arabe and mount the stairs until you come to the rooftop.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    During the evening, you can hear the live jazz band in Le Bistro Arabe.

    The atmosphere is very lively, and finding somewhere to sit is not easy.

    Booking beforehand guarantees you a seat.

    Seating is on different levels, giving views across the medina or looking down on the people below.

    Comfortable couches attract people to come and relax over a drink or two with friends and family.

    La Pergola is open daily from noon until 11.00pm.

    The address is;

    7/8 Riad Zitoun Lakdim.

    Marrakech 40000

    Morrocco.

    Situated in Riad Monceau, directly above Le Bistro Arabe.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are plenty of great shops in this area, and a stop off in La Pergola makes a welcome break from sightseeing.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    For more information, contact me via the email address below;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riad Zouhour.

    A perfectly charming riad in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Zouhour is  stunning with blue and white zellige tiles and exotic plants and trees.

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

    Images by 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, and it’s kept incredibly clean.

    You can tell this riad is a labour of love.

    The attention to detail is a credit to the owner, and the immaculate rooftop garden is a mini paradise.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The interior rooms are very spacious and beautifully decorated in a traditional, luxurious style.

    Large private bathrooms containing fragrant products for use in the shower add a nice touch.

    Rooms are light and airy, with plenty of sunlight streaming through the windows.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The food 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, nothing was too much trouble.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

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

    The 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 gets 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 where guests are made to feel really valued.

    Riad Zouhour is one of those places you just don’t want to leave.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    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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  • Palais Dar Donab.

    A beautiful, peaceful environment serving authentic Morroccon food.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Palais Dar Donab is a special treat for visitors to Marrakech.

    The scent of orange blossom fills the air, and the sound of birds chirping in the courtyard gives a sense of complete peace and tranquillity whilst dining here.

    This was one of my favourite places to visit and I absolutely love it here.

    I keep going back time and time again.

    Sometimes, it is for a glass of wine during the afternoon and a welcome break from sightseeing.

    It’s a place where you can unwind and enjoy the sunny courtyard with its large pool in the centre.

    Image Freebird Tracey.

    The menu is extensive with food to suit all palates.

    They also serve a decent selection of excellent wines and beers.

    I was really impressed with the quality of food and enjoyed each meal I have eaten in this fine restaurant.

    The vegetable tagine was one of the tastiest I have tried in Marrakesh, and the delicious smoothies were beautifully presented and full of fresh, vibrant fruit.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Palais Dar Donab is also a high-end accommodation, where guests and visitors  mingle together for a quiet break from the busy medina.

    As you relax in the calm, tranquil surroundings, you never feel rushed.

    The pace is slow and calm.

    The staff are attentive, and at the same time, they allow you to enjoy the lovely, peaceful setting without feeling any pressure to leave.

    The gentle sound of the leaves on the trees and the trickling water make dining here a very pleasant experience.

    Tangerines fall from the trees, and you can hear the birds singing happily.

    Palais Dar Donab is open for lunch as well as dinner.

    The tables are set around a large pool with citrus trees lining the courtyard.

    Beautiful flowers add an array of colour.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Music is played subtly in the background, allowing conversation to flow and a nice laid-back atmosphere.

    Relaxing for an hour or so admiring the intricate craftsmanship that surrounds you is a perfect way to recharge your batteries.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I highly recommend trying Palais Dar Donab, not just for the quality of the food or the friendly service, but for the peace and serenity it offers.

    You come away feeling recharged and de-stressed after the overwhelming medina with crowds of tourists.

    It’s a pleasant oasis in comparison to the over stimulating Jamaa El Fna.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Opening hours are,

    Monday-Sunday

    10.00am-10.30pm

    Address is,

    53 Dar el Basha-Bab,

    Doukkala Marrakech, Morocco.

    The restaurant is vegetarian and vegan friendly and accepts credit card payments.

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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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