The Sound Of The Souks

Tag: accommodation in Marrakech

Exploring The Red City Of Marrakech.

  • Riad Persephone.

    A riad overlooking Jemaa El Fna.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Persephone is a large riad located close to Jamaa El Fna. It has a cobalt blue courtyard with lush green plants and a large swimming pool. The colour of the walls is similar to the colour of Le Jardin Marjorelle. It looks beautiful against the foliage and zellige tiles.

    There is a large rooftop with plenty of seating areas and a warm jacuzzi for guests to use. It looks pretty in the evening with all the lamps lit. The square is visible from the rooftop, and you can hear the sounds of everything happening there until late at night.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    My room was on the rooftop. It was decorated in a saffron colour with decorative mirrors and a small private courtyard. The stained glass windows are a feature in riad Persephone. The boho decor is flattering.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    For some, the close proximity to the main square may be perfect. However, if you’re a light sleeper, you may find the early morning call to pray loud. The noise from the square may be problematic late at night. The sound of the food stalls being dismantled can be heard until the early hours of the morning. I would recommend taking ear plugs, especially if you have a room on the rooftop terrace.

    Riad Persephone has a rustic charm and has maintained its character. It also has a sister riad further away in the medina called Riad Roxanne.

    Riad Persephone is popular due to its strategic location and the view of Jamaa El Fnaa. It is close to plenty of restaurants, including Le Salama, L’Mdina, and Le Marrakchi. The staff at the riad can  organise activities, such as quad biking and a visit to Agafay desert. There is also a hammam with a massage service.

    Images by Freebird Tracey

    If you’re looking for a riad with attractive surroundings close to all the action, Riad Persephone is perfect. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet, relaxing atmosphere on the rooftop, this riad may not be the best choice. The constant hustle and bustle overrides the peaceful serenity.

    Overall, Riad Persephone is aesthetically pleasing and comfortable. The pool is nice, and the warm jacuzzi is popular with guests. I enjoyed the breakfast it was a typical Moroccan breakfast and very substantial. The location is good and easy to find.

    It is a large riad with a lot of steps up to the rooftop terrace, so it may not be ideal  for people with mobility issues.

    The address for Riad Persephone is 17 Derb Zaari. Marrakech 40000 Morocco.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • LA Maison Des Oliviers.

    A laid-back resort in Agdal.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I needed a place outside the medina to simply unwind.I had heard about La Maison Des Oliviers and decided to spend a few days at the House of Olives.

    The grounds of the resort are beautiful and well maintained. I was surrounded by olive trees, citrus trees, and large palms. It felt very exotic. The structure of the building was like a mediaeval castle with its cob walls and lush gardens.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There is a heated swimming pool that is immaculately clean and a poolside bar serving food and alcohol.

    La Maison Des Oliviers is set over 3 hectares and has 10 standard rooms, 10 deluxe rooms, 17 senior suites, and 3 ambassador suites. There is a shop selling souvenirs on the premises and a spa. There are also table tennis courts

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    I stayed in one of the standard rooms. It was large and comfortable, with all the amenities I needed for my stay. It was lovely relaxing by the pool in the delightful gardens. I spent several days doing nothing except sunbathing.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There is a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner. Breakfast is a buffet, and there is a large variety of choices. There is an outdoor seating area at the main restaurant perfect for pre dinner drinks or a night cap.

    The area is quite remote, but  a shuttle can take guests into the centre of Marrakech. It’s a shared taxi that you need to book at least an hour in advance.

    The surroundings outside the accommodation are run down, and the area is undeveloped, I wouldn’t walk around during the evening by myself. However, I did feel safe visiting a small local supermarket during the daytime.

    La Maison Des Oliviers is an ideal place for relaxation. I would recommend staying here after a few days in the busy medina. It is a welcome break from the hectic pace and a peaceful retreat where you can catch a few sun rays.

    Although I enjoyed my time here. I did miss the lively medina. The staff were friendly and helpful, but they are simply doing a job. I missed the personal touches I get staying in a riad. However,it’s a contrast to the busy touristic side of Marrakech, and I was grateful for the peace and quiet. Occasionally, it’s nice  not to do anything, and this was the reason I chose La Maison Des Oliviers.

    La Maison Des Oliviers is located near the Agdal area of Marrakech. The address is KM 6, Route de l’Ourika, Tassoultante 40000  Marrakech Morocco.

    It is also possible to get a ‘Day Pass’ to come and use the facilities. Check the website if you’re interested. La Maison Des Oliviers is also a popular wedding venue. The attractive gardens are photogenic.

    Image by Freebird.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riyadh Al Moussika

    Home to Pepe Nero Italian Restaurant.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I was fortunate to stay at Riyadh Al Moussika once home to the Pasha of Marrakech. The two impressive courtyards were a haven of peace and tranquillity each morning. The sound of birdsong and the gentle trickle of water from the fountains was a lovely way to begin each day.

    In one courtyard, there is a large pool with elegant seating around both sides. In the second, there are traditional zellige tiled fountains and water features. The interior decor resembles a calm oasis and includes an extravagant dining room with tasteful Moroccan and European furnishings.

    The riad is a popular Italian restaurant called Pepe Nero. When the restaurant opens at lunchtime, music is playing, but during the afternoon, between 4 and 6, it becomes peaceful again.

    The evenings can be livelier, so earplugs are a must if you retire to bed early. The tempo of the music is louder and can be heard in the guests’ rooms. I didn’t find this an issue because once the restaurant closes at 11.30, it soon becomes quiet again.

    Riyadh Al Moussika has been beautifully renovated. The rooms are spacious, and the blue suite is grand enough for royalty. I stayed in the single room. It was adequate and included all the amenities I required for a comfortable stay. Although rooms in riads are quite dark to keep them cool, this is part of their authenticity.

    Riyadh Al Moussika is aesthetically pleasing. There are exotic plants, including palms and pretty bougainvillaea, draping over the walls.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop terrace is separated into private areas for guests. There are sun loungers and foliage in large clay pots. It’s a large space with views of the Atlas Mountains in the distance.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The afternoons in Riyadh Al Moussika were very relaxing. I appreciated listening to the sound of the fountain trickling into the clear pool surrounded by lush green foliage. Gentle background music added to the feeling of stillness, and it was such a calm setting.

    The location of Riyadh Al Moussika is excellent. It is in a quiet area with a small carpark close by. There are several restaurants and cafes  a short walk away, including Mandala Society. There is a hammam with a great rooftop restaurant called Les Bains Kenaria nearby.

    The staff at the riad were very professional.They were helpful and polite at all times. Despite this being a busy restaurant, they were always available for their guests. Complimentary water and mint tea were offered to guests each day, which added a nice personal touch.

    The breakfast was a hearty start to each morning. It was a typically sweet Moroccan breakfast with the option of having an omelette. Msemen pancakes, cheese, fruit, yoghurt, fresh orange juice, and coffee were served in the restaurant courtyard.

    I really enjoyed my stay in Riyadh Al Moussika and would highly recommend it. The music is something to bear in mind if you would like to retire to bed early. However, for a solo traveller, it reduces that feeling of isolation you sometimes struggle with. Taking a pair of earplugs helped.

    The excellent service and glamorous environment made up for any minor inconvenience caused by the bustling restaurant vibe.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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 Jardin Lea.

    A riad with a family atmosphere

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Lea is a traditional mid priced riad only 10 minutes walk away from the main square. It is a small cosy riad with a friendly atmosphere.

    There are 5 suites, which are authentically Moroccan. They are comfortable and include all the amenities sufficient for a pleasant stay.

    The courtyard is peaceful with the sound of birds singing. It’s a quiet, relaxed setting away from the busy touristic area. The busy part of the medina is only a short walk away.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is pleasant and has a jacuzzi, which is clean and well maintained.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The staff at Riad Lea are friendly and attentive. They offered me some food whilst breaking their fast during Ramadan. It’s these little gestures that make staying in a traditional riad charming.

    There are more luxurious riads than riad Lea, but it’s the personal touches that stand out for me. The staff at Riad Lea go out of their way to  ensure guests are happy.

    Reaching riad Lea was like heading down a hobbit hole through the narrow winding alleyway. The doorway was not made for tall people, but you soon remember to duck.

    Dark winding passageways are typical in the medina and part of its charm. Riads are concealed behind red clay walls because in the Islamic faith, everyone is equal, and displaying ones wealth is vulgar.

    The breakfast at Riad Lea was a typical Morroccan breakfast, which is often heavy on carbohydrates. I enjoyed the homemade yoghurt and msemen pancakes.

    The walk to the main square is a pleasant 15 minutes. You pass interesting shops and restaurants along the way.

    I enjoyed my stay at Riad Lea. It’s not 5 stars, but it’s good value for money. It was clean and comfortable, and the staff were a credit to the riad.

    The address is.

    41 Derb Sidi Bou Amar Marrakech 40000.

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