The Sound Of The Souks

Tag: Riads In Marrakech

Exploring The Red City Of Marrakech.

  • Riads In Marrakech Medina.

    What to know before choosing a riad.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are so many riads in Marrakech that it can be difficult to choose one. The following posts are dedicated to helping you decide.

    By showcasing my own experiences, I hope to give visitors an idea of what staying in a riad is like. Obviously, these are my personal opinions, so do check other people’s reviews too.

    There are a number of hostels in the medina that are renovated riads. These are perfect for  budget conscious travellers. There are also luxury riads that were former palaces. Somewhere in between are the mid price range that have been beautifully restored. It’s these riads that I favour. The small personal touches and  laid-back friendly atmosphere make these riads feel welcoming and intimate.

    For the best experience, consider staying in more than one riad. I like to spend 3-4 days in a small family owned riad. I  find this a good option when I’m out a lot sightseeing and using the riad as a base or somewhere to sleep. I spend the last few days relaxing in a more luxurious riad. It makes sense to pay more if you are going to use the facilities. A restored former palace is a peaceful environment in which to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. After exploring the busy medina, it’s the perfect way to finish a visit to Marrakech.

    When choosing somewhere to stay, check the location. Decide how close you would like to be to the main square. Consider how much walking you are prepared to do in the heat. Check the facilities on offer. Does the riad provide a hammam, breakfast, and dinner? Do they supply a taxi to pick you up at the airport?Is there parking available? Also, check payment methods. Some riads only accept payment in cash. Decide whether you want to stay in a quieter area such as the Kasbah. There is also the Mellah, which is the old Jewish quarter of the medina. Lastly, read the latest reviews before choosing a riad.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Staying in a traditional riad is the best way to experience the history and culture of Marrakech. Each riad has its own story from the past. Inside the unassuming walls, you can imagine families who spent hours in the tranquillity of the courtyard and evenings chatting together on the rooftop terrace as the sun went down. For people who have read the tales of Arabian Nights, staying in a traditional riad feels as though you have been encapsulated into one of the stories. It’s a magical experience.

    If you’re a light sleeper, taking a set of earplugs is essential. The call to prayer echos across the medina early every morning, and soundproofing in these ancient constructions is not the best. However, it’s a small price to pay for an authentic experience in a traditional Morroccan house.

    Here is the list of riads I feature in my next posts. It is continuously updated.

    • Monriad
    • Riad Persephone
    • La Maison Des Oliviers
    • Riad Hikaya
    • Riad Dombaraka
    • Riad Zouhour
    • Riyadh Al Moussika
    • The Bohemian Jungle
    • Riad Blue Berber
    • Riad Laila
    • Riad Jardin Lea                      
    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    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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