Luxury Hotels and Riads in Morocco
These are the hotels and riads in Morocco that we work with. To see the list of accommodation by the resort, along with descriptions of the resorts, go to Accommodation In Morocco.
“The first thing one should own is a home; and it is the last thing one should sell; for a home is ones tomb this side of heaven” (Moroccan proverb)
What is Riad?
A riad (ryad/riyad) is an urban house situated in the medina (old city). Moroccan architecture is more inward looking and given to isolation and intimacy rather than showing off. It is, above all, an enclosure, a place of contemplation and escape for its cloistered inhabitants, an engaging interior away from the outside world. A mysterious enchantment awaits the guest who is invited to cross the threshold. The typical home is organised around a central square courtyard, often decorated with zelige, painted wood (zouak), sculptured plaster or marble and generally with a fountain and orange or lemon trees giving a profusion of scents and the rippling of running water. The central courtyard is usually surrounded by an arched colonnade giving access to the living rooms and kitchen. The sleeping areas are constructed on the upper floors, thus creating a covered arcade around the patio with balustrades running around each storey. The roof top terrace may have an awning to protect against the sun where guests will have breakfast or dinner.
Riads have thick walls thus protecting the inhabitants from the sun or the cold and most of the outside noise. Being urban dwellings, they are often situated along a narrow alleyway (derb) with no access by car. For those seeking an authentic Moroccan style of accommodation, the riad offers its guests a haven of tranquillity, an architectural treasure, an insight into tradition, culture and craftsmanship and an opportunity to melt into an anonymous location.
… maison_dhotes…
What is a Maison d’hôtes?
Quite simply, this means a guest house. Usually these are private houses that have been converted into small and very charming hotels. As you will see, they vary from riad-style to converted villas, and most recently the Caravanserai and Tigmi which are renovated adjoining traditional rural village homes made of reinforced mud.
The majority of maisons d’hôtes rent individual rooms but for larger parties or families who may perhaps like to celebrate a special occasion, you can take over an entire property for your Marrakech holiday.