What to Expect When Staying in a Moroccan Riad
A visit to Marrakech is a magical experience. The city offers plenty of exoticism and romance, with a thriving old centre housing bustling markets, craft businesses, restaurants and more. It’s a tourist destination that manages to combine the best of Moroccan culture and tradition but with a visit to Marrakech is a magical experience. The city offers plenty of exoticism and romance, with a thriving old centre housing bustling markets, craft businesses, restaurants and more. It’s a tourist destination that manages to combine the best of Moroccan culture and tradition but with a chilled out vibe and modern amenities too. The riads of Marrakech are famous for providing an authentic visitor experience in this enchanting city. So if you’re planning a trip to Marrakech, don’t book yourself into a hotel – try staying in a Moroccan riad instead.
What is a riad?
Simply put, a riad is a traditional Moroccan house. The term comes from the Arab word ‘ryad’ (meaning ‘garden’) but is applied to townhouses built around an inner courtyard or garden. True riads will have lush plants in four planting beds and a central fountain, but many variations exist. Some even have a swimming pool or a private, hammam-style spa for their guests.
The windows of each room face into the courtyard in line with the Islamic idea of privacy and inward reflection. What’s more, this clever design helps to keep the air cool and comfortable, particularly during hot Moroccan summers. All riads provide traditional hotel accommodation but what sets them apart from regular hotels is that your experience is steeped in the culture and history of Marrakech.
Where can you find a riad in Marrakech?
While riads are located all over Morocco, in the Old Medina of Marrakech you’ll find some of the most authentic. As a rule of thumb, the most sought-after riads are located within 10 minutes’ walk from the Jemaa el Fna. Part of the appeal is trying to locate your riad – you may not realise you’re right in front of it. Having been designed as private, intimate spaces, there’s often no outward sign other than a humble wooden door on a narrow stone street.
If it’s your first visit, it’s best to arrange a meeting place nearby. That way you can be safely guided to your riad by one of its employees. Arriving after dark and without a map or guide isn’t recommended as you’ll most likely get lost.
