Sounds Of The Souks

Tag: Marrakech

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

  • Monriad.

    A peaceful, fragrant riad in the heart of the medina

    The colourful rooftop of Monriad.

    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.

    Inside Monriad

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

    A welcoming glass of mint tea.

    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.

    Sunrise from Monriad rooftop.

    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.

    Making friends with the locals.

    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.

    Monriad can be found at the address below,

    N. 4 Derb Lahbasse, Riad

    Zitoun Lakdim, Marrakech 40000 Morocco.

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  • Kabana Rooftop Bar.

    Kabana Rooftop Bar is a lively, popular place serving a wide range of cocktails and other alcoholic beverages.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    They also have a good selection of dishes on the menu to suit all palates.

    You enter the bar via steps, and from the road, it looks rather unassuming.

    Entrance to Kabana rooftop bar.

    Once inside, it’s tastefully decorated with lanterns hanging everywhere and music playing on a large television screen.

    It’s a very busy venue, and booking is essential to be guaranteed a seat.

    The bar is huge, and you can either sit inside or outside, where most people prefer to hang out.

    Selection of alcoholic beverages at the bar.

    I took my son for his birthday meal and he chose the steak. He said it was cooked to perfection.

    Other people had mixed reviews, saying waiting times were long and that it was pricey for food and drinks.

    The food is Mediterranean inspired, and they also have a sushi menu.

    It was always full, and on the occasions we simply visited for cocktails, we couldn’t always be guaranteed a seat on the rooftop for a cocktail.

    However, after waiting for approximately 30 minutes inside the bar area, we eventually got a place.

    There is table service.

    The unisex bathroom is a treat,  beautifully decorated, modern, and traditional.

    Kabana rooftop bar seems to be one of the more popular places for drinks in the medina and lacked authenticity for me.

    The surroundings were nice with plenty of greenery, and the lanterns looked very pretty after dark.

    There is a view of Koutoubia Mosque from the rooftop, but it’s slightly shielded because drinking alcohol with the Mosque in full view is prohibited in Islamic culture.

    View of Koutoubia Mosque.

    Kabana rooftop bar has a very cosmopolitan vibe, attracting all age groups.

    It is situated at the gate of the medina and open daily from,

    11.00am-2.00am

    They play DJ sets, and it’s a  vibrant setting with a more relaxed dress code.

    It is not an intimate place for a romantic meal, in my opinion, and I found it difficult to have a conversation amidst the crowds of people and loud music.

    However, there are plenty of traditional, authentic places in the medina to dine out if you prefer a quieter environment.

    Kabana is a cocktail bar similar to the places in the new town, with the same energy but within walking distance for those people staying in the medina.

    It’s definitely worth a visit.

    The address is,

    Kissariat Ben Khalid R’mila,

    1 Rue Fatima Zahra,

    40000 Marrakech Morocco.

    A refreshing cocktail inside the Kabana rooftop bar.
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  • Palais Dar Donab.

    A beautiful, calm environment serving authentic Morroccon food.

    Courtyard of Palais Dar Donab/image Freebird Tracey.

    Palais Dar Donab is a special treat.

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

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

    I visited several times, sometimes for a glass of wine during the afternoon and a welcome break from sightseeing.

    Image Freebird Tracey.

    The menu is extensive with food to suit most palates.

    They serve a decent selection of excellent wines and beers.

    I was very satisfied with the quality of food and enjoyed each meal I had in this fine restaurant.

    The vegetable tagine was one of the tastiest I tried in Marrakesh, and the delicious smoothies were all beautifully presented.

    Vegetable tagine with bread and olives.

    Palais Dar Donab is a high-end riad, where guests and visitors alike are welcome to come in and enjoy a quiet break from the busy medina.

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

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

    They are open for lunch aswell as dinner.

    The restaurant is set around a large pool and citrus trees, making it the perfect place for a nice rest.

    Relaxing on the comfortable couches and admiring the intricate craftsmanship inside is a nice way to pass an hour or so.

    I highly recommend trying Palais Dar Donab, not just for the quality of the food and friendly service, but for the peaceful atmosphere.

    You come away feeling recharged and de-stressed.

    You are ready to head back out into Jamaa El Fna and the souks again..

    Enjoying a moment of quiet contemplation.

    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 cards.

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  • Le Marrakchi Restaurant.

    A popular restaurant with views over the Jamaa El Fna

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    A fine dining experience in tastefully decorated surroundings situated on,

    52 Rue des Banques, Av.

    Jamaa El Fna

    40000 Morocco

    A refreshing cocktail inside Marrakchi Restaurant.

    Le Marrakchi restaurant is beautifully intimate with dim lighting and candles lit on the tables, giving it a warm, cosy glow.

    It’s a popular place to dine in the square, attracting a variety of people, including locals and tourists alike.

    It’s a family-friendly establishment and has vegan options available.

    The whole ambience is very special, and the vibe inside the restaurant is very relaxing despite it being a relatively busy place.

    From the outside, the walls have a wonderful, red glow, which is very atmospheric and inviting.

    Vegetable cous cous in Marrakchi restaurant.

    The food is good, I especially enjoyed the tagines which were served with a spicy, Harissa sauce at the side.

    Service was also good, and the waiters were attentive and friendly.

    The decor was traditionally Morroccan, and it felt cosy and romantic inside.

    They serve alcohol including a wide range of beautifully presented cocktails.

    Marrakchi serves a range of wines and cocktails.

    Prices are average for a licenced restaurant close to Jamaa El Fna.

    I went back several times because the vibe was very pleasant, and I enjoyed listening to the sounds of the busy square outside the windows.

    I didn’t feel rushed despite the fact that the restaurant was busy and people were coming and going throughout the evening.

    There was a good selection of dishes on the menu, and I enjoyed the vegetarian options, including vegetable cous cous, typically eaten on Fridays in Marrakesh.

    The bathroom facilities were excellent and smelt very fragrant.

    There are a few steps to climb into the restaurant area, so it’s probably not suitable for people with mobility issues.

    Opening hours are 12.00-12.00am daily.

    They also offer a takeaway service if you don’t wish to visit in person.

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  • Atay And Moroccan Pastries.

    Marrakech is full of delightful little places to sit, and people watch whilst sipping traditional mint tea known as atay.

    A pretty little spot inside the medina.

    The colourful, boho decor and tempting pastries are the perfect way to take a much needed breather from the chaos of the souks.

    Shopping in the medina is a fascinating experience, but it can be overwhelming.

    I found out that taking a break and pacing myself was the best way to thoroughly enjoy my time looking around and navigating the maze of the souks.

    I especially loved the sweets and pastries on offer. They were absolutely delicious and complimented the refreshing mint tea perfectly.

    There were so many to choose from, and I decided to treat myself to a selection of smaller pastries to see which were my favourites.

    A tasty snack inside the medina.

    If you are shopping for gifts or spending time in the colourful, vibrant souks, I would highly recommend that you take some time out to rest and pace yourself.

    Sitting outside a cute little tea shop and sampling something light and tasty is a great way to engage in the culture of Morrocco and its people.

    Enjoying a breather from shopping.

    There are plenty of places offering mint tea and pastries dotted in and around the main square.

    The sweets are an absolute treat, but you will be spoilt for choice.

    The choice of delicious treats on offer in the souks.

    Part of the pleasure of exploring the medina is finding hidden gems where you can sit and gather yourself before venturing further.

    Marrakech is known for its delicious pastries, and they’re a nice snack that won’t spoil your appetite for later in the day.

    Watching the world go by in the medina.

    A few suggestions are,

    . Medina Kawa Marrakech.

    . La Patisserie de la Terracce Spices

    . Boughaz Coffee in the Kasbah.

    Also, check out my blog post about traditional Morroccan mint tea.

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  • Riad Blue Berber

    A 17th Century Riad In A Great Location.

    Courtyard with original tiles.

    Riad Blue Berber is a traditional riad close to some great places such as Bahia Palace, Dardar rooftop bar, Le Pegola, and a variety of restaurants and shops.

    It is situated on my favourite side of the medina because it’s still lively yet a little less manic.

    I find it easier to locate riads here than negotiating the souks late at night.

    The riad is authentic and pretty with typically morroccan furnished suites.

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

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

    Mona, the lady who cooks breakfast, doesn’t speak English, but every morning, she prepared a hearty breakfast for me.

    The riad can organise tours, runs cooking classes, and will store your luggage after checking out.

    The rooftop was large with different tiers to sit on and was being updated during my stay.

    The rooftop of Riad Blue Berber.

    However, it would benefit from a lick of paint to make it perfect.

    I always felt safe walking to and from Riad Blue Berber. This is also a bonus, especially for female solo travellers.

    The traditional 17th century tiles on the floor of the courtyard give it a sense of character and charm.

    Riad Blue Berber has four rooms.

    Three of the rooms have air conditioning, and two have fans and heaters.

    It is approximately 200 metres from Jamaa El Fna,

    The address is;

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

    Courtyard in Riad Blue Berber.

    For more information about places to stay, contact me via the email address below;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riad Jardin Lea.

    A comfortable riad with friendly staff.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Lea, as it is also known, is a traditional mid priced riad only 10 minutes walk away from the main square.

    There are 5 suites, and they are authentically decorated and comfortable.

    The courtyard is peaceful with the sound of birds chirping.

    It’s a nice place to sit and cool down after a busy morning exploring the city in the heat.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is a great place for a spot of sunbathing, and there is also a jacuzzi.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The staff at Riad Lea were especially attentive. They couldn’t do enough for their guests.

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

    It’s the little touches like this that make a traditional riad such a charming place to stay. There are more modern riads, 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 lovely atmosphere in the riad, and everyone seemed to be having a great experience.

    Reaching the riad was like heading down a hobbit hole, and the doorway was not made for tall people, but once you got used to it, you soon remembered to duck.

    The breakfast at Riad Lea was a typical Morroccan breakfast, but as good as I’ve had in the more expensive riads.

    I loved their homemade yoghurt and msemen pancakes.

    The walk to the main square was enjoyable, passing by lots of interesting little shops and restaurants on 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, I had everything I needed, and the staff were a credit to the riad.

    Riad Lea can be found at,

    41 Derb Sidi Bou

    Amar Marrakech 40000.

    Courtyard at Riad Lea.

    For more information about places to stay, contact me via the email address below;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riad Laila.

    A mid range 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 courtyard is full of exquisite plants, including mandarin trees and hibiscus.

    There is a large swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

    The rooms are tastefully furnished and modern.

    This is a more recently renovated riad.

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

    The rooftop.

    Riad Laila is the perfect riad for those people who are looking for spa like feel to their Morroccan experience.

    The staff exude professionalism and wear uniforms. They keep a keen eye on guests, and the place is run immaculately.

    Everything is spotlessly clean, and it’s the kind of place where you can spend ages just relaxing by the side of the pool.

    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.

    I found Raid Laila fine for a couple of days but did miss the charm of a more authentic and traditional family run riad.

    The food was not the best either.

    I’m a vegetarian, and I was disappointed with my meal.

    I basically had a few vegetables served as a side dish.

    This could have been because of the language barrier.

    The 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 may be perfect for you.

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

    Inside the high walls of the riad, it is tranquil and relaxing.

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

    Laila the riads namesake.

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

    It’s a decent walk in the heat also.

    Riad Laila is at,

    104 Diour Jdad

    Zaouia Abbassia

    Marrakech 40000.

    For more information about places to stay in Marrakech, contact me via the email address below;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Le Salama Restaurant.

    Delicious food that is reasonably priced.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There is a lively rooftop dining area that gets very busy and seems to be popular amongst tourists.

    I would recommend booking in advance for a table on the rooftop as it is very popular.

    The decor is a mixture of traditional Morroccan and modern with a touch of nature.

    There are two bars serving a range of alcohol and non alcoholic drinks in both areas.

    I chose a plate of Morroccan pastries, which were delicious with a cold glass of Casablanca beer.

    I had eaten earlier, so I wasn’t particularly hungry, but the other diners were enjoying a variety of excellent dishes from the menu.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    At 9.00pm, the entertainment begins.

    Traditional belly dancers danced around the tables, encouraging the diners to participate.

    It was fun to watch, and everyone in the restaurant appeared to be having a good time.

    Video by Freebird Tracey.

    I have to admit that the service was slightly slow. However, it was Ramadan, so exceptions have to be made during this month.

    I was by myself as a solo female traveller, and I didn’t feel conspicuous at all.

    The waiters were polite and helpful, and it wasn’t a problem that I only ordered a dessert and one drink.

    Le Salama is close to Jamaa El Fna, so it’s the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and recharge your batteries. 

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Le Salama can be found on,

    40 rue des banques, and it’s open until 2.00 am

    It serves a good range of cocktails and is open for lunch and dinner.

    They also have a kids menu.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

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

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Riad Dombaraka

    A peaceful oasis.

    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.

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

    View from the rooftop.

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

    The library.

    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.

    The courtyard.

    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

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

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

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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