Located in the heart of the old town medina, adjacent to the souks, this riad is nevertheless convenient to Gueliz, the modern city. Leaving behind the clamor and bustle of the marketplace through a narrow, unassuming walkway, guests enter an enchanting garden patio with a pool and lush fruit trees. Sculptured cedar doors, intricately designed mosaic tile work and graceful archways speak of a distant time.
This property is composed of two neighboring riads, which interconnect and can be rented as a single unit. One of the riads, an ancient palace or grand residence converted to guest quarters, includes a patio, teensy pool and five double rooms. The other riad offers three double rooms and a patio that surrounds a beautiful marble fountain. Both sections include Moroccan salons and rooftop terraces. Besides renting separate rooms, the riads can be rented in their entirety or as two large separate units. Public areas in both riads are shared by guests.
Comfortable and inviting Moroccan lounges surrounded by rich vegetation offer a refuge for reading, enjoying a meal by the fireplace or relaxing with a cup of tea. Rooftop terraces and a solarium provide views of the historic medina and offer a prime spot for sunbathing, taking
breakfast or enjoying a candlelit dinner. Floor pillows, chaises longues and Oriental-rug-enhanced sitting areas encourage lingering by the pool. Guests can access high-speed Internet at reception.
Traditional Moroccan meals are available upon request and served anywhere in the riad. Breakfast is included in the rates and consists of a sensory feast of freshly baked specialties. Guests are also treated to coffee and tea at any time.
The use of the hammam and zellige-tiled pool is complimentary. Massages, wraps and peels are available on request for an additional charge. The friendly English- and French-speaking staffers make reservations for such activities as sporting events, shows, musicals, restaurants, and horse-and-carriage rides through the medina. Secure parking is available nearby.
The spacious and bright guest rooms are individually decorated in traditional Moroccan style. Arched doorways are exquisite in design, but functionally troublesome for taller guests. All are air conditioned and include a double bed, safe, salon area and private bath decked out in traditional tadlakt. Not all of the rooms 
have a phone, but phones are available in several of the common areas. Two rooms boast fireplaces and direct access to the main patio area. The furnishings are unremarkable (especially when compared with the dramatic Villa des Orangers) with simple artwork, uninspired fabrics and area rugs in each. To be certain, the Moroccan spirit of this lodging immediately comes through, but without much decorative fanfare.
Room service is on call 24 hours a day, but it is limited to tea, coffee and simple fare. Small groups can be accommodated; many rent out the entire place. Wheelchair access is problematic: Many of the hallways are quite narrow, and the space in the rooms, especially in the bedrooms, is limited. There is no elevator. Like many riads, the close confines and bare walls make echoes a potential soundproofing issue, although most guests here cause little ruckus.
This riad is a delightful place to experience Marrakech. Though not as elegant as a large hotel such as the revamped La Mamounia, this hidden jewel provides all the comforts of home along with the fantasies of life in this ancient city.
