Riad or villa : which one to choose ?

intérieur charmant et relaxant d'un riad à marrakech

Still hesitating between a riad and a villa in Marrakech? This article is made for you.

It is no longer a scoop for anyone, Marrakech is an incredible place. This city knows how to captivate you with its rich history and the intriguing mysteries that lurk around every corner.

Indeed, there are historic palaces to explore, vibrant gardens to stroll through, and restaurants that serve traditional dishes like sizzling tagines with flair. Those who have already visited the city can confirm that it is the accommodations that stand out the most.

Some will appreciate contemporary luxury villas in a quieter neighborhood, away from the action, while others prefer stars in the luxurious riads of the medina, with their mood lighting, traditional baths and small pools.

But while both types of homes are equally satisfying, how do you choose which one is right for you? To help you choose, we invite you to read this article to the end.

THE RIAD

Riads are essentially typical Moroccan houses with a rooftop terrace, central courtyard or garden. As the majority of Marrakech riads have no exterior windows, the streets of Marrakech’s medina are lined with these solid, ochre walls.

In contrast, the open-air courtyards, which often include small pools and some greenery along the walls, bring light to the place. Living in a riad is therefore a private, personal experience, very isolated from the outside world.

Without further ado, here are some of the things that make a riad so charming.

1- Central garden: a sanctuary of security and peace

The central courtyard of any riad is its main feature. In fact, the central well, which is not hindered by the surrounding rooms and corridors, offers plenty of light and air. This central space allows the riad to stay cool even in the middle of the Marrakech summer.

The courtyard was originally designed as a garden, but some modern modifications contain plunge pools and water features such as fountains, adding to the comfort and soothing tranquility.

2- Unique design

The traditional elements of a house, such as bâyts (long rooms), corridors and stairways, are arranged around this central space and supported by tasteful colonnades. In addition, many riads have high ceilings with sturdy cedar beams. This created a wonderful contrast to the limited proportions of the corridors.

3- Comfortable rooms

First of all, riads are much more exclusive than hotels as they often have less than 10 rooms. You will experience being a guest of honor in a palace.

Second, the rooms in a riad are all uniquely designed and equipped. As you walk through each curved entrance, you are confronted with new views. This proves that each riad has its own unique appeal.

4- Wonderful interiors

Warm and subdued colors are infused into the space by zellige tiles and mosaics with elaborate Moroccan motifs. These reflect the natural light on the refined furniture made by local artisans.

Indeed, beneath the lavishly detailed and designed paintings and walls, setwans, lounges and suites with cozy fireplaces offer comfortable seating. It is especially the way the riads use their limited space that makes them so charming.

5- Lighted interiors

On the other hand, riads are like labyrinths within labyrinths. The narrow passages often take sudden turns into rooms and other areas flooded with natural light. But take a step outside onto one of the balconies overlooking the interior garden. The view before you become more and more vivid as your eyes get used to the sun.

6- Riad: a cool space

As precious rain is channeled along the lined roofs to nourish the hanging flora, hanging plants fall along the walls in the central area of the Riad and in sheaths of botanical colors.

The windows and entrances that lead to the main open-air space are fundamental to the architecture of the riad. Thus, fresh air circulates in the riad and dissipates the heat.

7- Terrace open to the sky

The terrace offers plenty of space if you want more. Indeed, most riads offer rooftop terraces that invite you to relax while admiring the vast sky.

Breakfast on the roof of your riad as the sun rises would also be a wonderful way to start the day.

Riads are opulent sanctuaries where you can find peace and comfort away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Moreover, riads offer an authentic look at Moroccan life in the past and are unmatched by any other type of home. But in Marrakech, there are not only riads that can offer luxury and comfort.

VILLA

A fully equipped villa is the best option if you like seclusion and a touch of modern elegance. Marrakech villas are absolutely unmatched in terms of exquisite design, quality amenities and first-class service.

To ensure your complete satisfaction, VILLAS MASTER Villas can help you find the villa of your dreams in Marrakech according to your preferences, needs and budget.

Here is what you need to know if you choose to live in a villa:

1- Tranquility

Most of the villas in Marrakech are located on the outskirts of the city, which ensures privacy and calm. They often have a huge swimming pool that belongs exclusively to you, as well as beautiful tropical grounds where you can take a walk.

The best option if you are looking for a more relaxed vacation or lifestyle is definitely a luxury villa in Marrakech. With the abundance of services and features that a community villa offers, you can enjoy both your private lifestyle and the benefits of community living. You can also have complete control over your property, as there are no common walls.

2- Benefit from a qualified staff

You will never feel lonely, even if you are far from the city, so don’t worry. Many Marrakech villas offer a concierge service, which means that someone is always available to arrange whatever you need, whenever you need it.

So, you can take day trips to places like Essaouira on the coast and Imlil in the Atlas Mountains, in addition to your outings in the medina.

3- Amenities, environment and nature

The amenities, luxury and high-end services found in villa communities and resorts are well known. Indeed, the advantages of owning a villa in Marrakech are numerous, starting with the 24-hour maintenance and security.

In addition, perfectly maintained gardens and outdoor activity areas contribute to the appeal of villa living while preserving the beauty of nature.

Thus, the luxury villas at VILLAS MASTER can offer you carefully designed amenities to effectively meet your everyday needs.

4- Freedom to customize and make changes

When you buy a house, you always want it to fit your preferences and lifestyle. This is also the case when you own a villa in Marrakech. In fact, you have the exclusive freedom to modify your space according to your own requirements and preferences.

As a result, your villa can always be modified to fit your family’s requirements. Even though a property is a lifelong asset, your requirements can change the day after you buy it. Because of this freedom to change, villas allow you to always upgrade or modify your home to meet your needs.

5- Private terrace

For the urban family, having a private terrace is a rare privilege. In fact, most building companies have usage rules for their terraces, which limits your outdoor space.

With villas, you have unlimited access to your terrace. In addition, the terrace can also be the perfect place to celebrate birthdays, weddings, host barbecues, invite family and friends and generally have a fantastic time.

Ultimately, whether you choose to live in a riad or a luxury villa in Marrakech, you will never be disappointed. One offers you an authentic aspect of Moroccan life and a unique architectural style that you won’t find elsewhere. The other can offer you a property that is highly efficient with its modern amenities.

But whatever you choose, our VILLAS MASTER agency can find you the house of your dreams in Marrakech.

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