To get the right riad in Marrakech, you need to consider: location, convenience, size, terrace and design.
When looking for accommodation in Morocco, the riad is one of the most common options on par with luxury apartments or villas. Riads are traditional Moroccan houses or palaces characterized by an interior garden or courtyard.
When reading comments from those who already have their own riads in Marrakech, you will often notice words like oasis and retreat to describe the experience within these wonders. The question now is how to get the right riad in Marrakech?
To help you answer this question, VILLAS MASTER gives you in this article all the elements to take into account to have the riad of your dream.
What is a riad?
A riad is a traditional Moroccan guest house with an unusual architectural feature. The term “riad” refers to the structure and shape of the accommodation. A real riad will have an interior garden because the word “riad” has a similar meaning to “garden”.
a- Structure of a riad
The rooms of a riad are arranged around a central courtyard-garden, which often includes a fountain or a pool. The correct name of the accommodation should officially be “dar” if there is no garden. But the terms “riad” and “dar” are often used synonymously, especially by those looking for accommodation in Marrakech.
Riads do not have exterior windows, as they were originally designed to house families and courtiers. They also offered their occupants privacy and protection from the desert heat.
b- Authentic
These riads are often historic mansions or palaces that have been converted into housing. Many of them still have distinctive historical features. Then, staying or living in the right riad in Marrakech will give you a taste of Moroccan hospitality.
c- Discreet
They are sometimes found in discreet alleys of the old city. But once inside, visitors are often amazed to find hidden gems of architecture, craftsmanship and a sanctuary of leisure. Thus, those inside can retreat from the bustling souks of the medina.
Tips for choosing the right riad
Marrakech has nearly 1500 riads. Given the overwhelming number of options available to you, it is important to determine the factors to consider in order to find the right riad in Marrakech for you.
1- Location
Most riads in Marrakech are located in the old part of the city. They are sometimes located inside the walls of the old medina, due to the historical character of these accommodations. Therefore, when looking for your riad, location should be your first priority.
Indeed, you should take into account the proximity of the riad to certain places such as hospitals, shopping center, administration or anything else you wish to see.
In addition, you should focus on the possibility of getting there quickly by cab. Many streets in the medina of Marrakech are inaccessible to cars. In this case, you need to prepare in advance. The good news is that this is a great opportunity to enjoy walking while admiring the scenery of the city of Marrakech.
2- Amenities
When you are done with the location of your riad, the second factor you need to consider is the equipment and service included. For tourists, this aspect revolves around extras such as sheets, towels and separate toilets. Most riads operate in the same way as bed and breakfasts and offer breakfast as part of the room rate.
However, if you want to stay longer in a riad in Marrakech or live there, there are other factors you need to consider besides the staff services. If you want to know more, VILLAS MASTER is ready to accompany you in this adventure. Our goal is to offer our clients the house of their dreams in Marrakech, whether it is a villa or a riad.
Other indicators to consider
Whether you decide to spend a week or stay for a long time, your riad must have
- A swimming pool for swimming
- A roof terraces
- A hammam for a spa session and for your comfort
- An air conditioner
3- Size
It is important to consider the size of the riads when comparing them on the sites. The houses are generally small, but some riads are smaller than others. A riad with six rooms and one with more than a dozen rooms vary considerably from each other.
If you want to fully enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the so-called “oasis”, you’ll need to find a smaller riad. But if you are planning to move with your whole family and all your luggage, a larger riad is perfect for you.
At VILLAS MASTER, we have the right size for you.
4- Design
Whether it is for the photo or for the simple fact of loving what is authentic and beautiful, the design of a riad remains the fundamental aspect to take into account. Indeed, riads offer unique designs thanks to its style that straddles the line between a thousand-year-old tradition and the modernity of today.
Of course, the choice of design is undoubtedly very subjective and personal, but once you have narrowed down your choice to a few riads, it can help you make your decision. For example, you can choose your riad based on the tiled walls, the bright colors, the design of the door, the flowers in the garden or the types of chairs outside.
These designs offer you unique experiences in Moroccan riads.
5- Terrace
There are different types of riads, but when it comes to feeling at home, you should choose riads with comfortable seats on the roof terrace. The best is to have a long bench with comfortable cushions. But some riads like wrought iron chairs, which, although attractive, are not necessarily the most comfortable for relaxing.
You will probably spend a lot of time on the terrace reading a book, drinking mint tea, eating cakes or just taking in the air and enjoying the atmosphere while listening to the minarets.
