Suitcase Magazine
Words by THE CURIOUS PEAR
El Fenn
The work of art powerhouse Vanessa Branson, co-owner Howell James and French designer Frederic Scholl, El Fenn is a restored riad tucked away down a quiet street in the Medina. Drenched in all the colours of the souk – from the scrubbed bronze walls and crimson entrance hall to the elaborate gold candlesticks and deep pink velvet sofas – El Fenn is a feast for the eyes.
Photo: Saad Alami
The riad’s 20 bedrooms overlook a courtyard shaded by orange trees, while the rooftop restaurant has panoramic views of the city. There is a library with an open fireplace, three majestic swimming pools, hammocks strung between lemon trees, soaring ceilings, a celebrated spa and a cinema. Branson has filled the riad with select pieces from her private collection, including a chandelier by Francis Upritchard, ink studies by Sir Antony Gormley and a series of photographs of 1960s Morocco taken by Terence Donovan.
- +212 524 441 210
- Go to Website
- 2 Derb Moulay Abdullah Ben Hezzian
Bab El Ksour
Medina
La Sultana
From the glistening gold doors that greet you to the intricately decorated pillars surrounding the pool, every inch of La Sultana is dripping in old-world Moroccan grandeur. The hotel is a collection of five riads, each one distinct in colour and concept. The sumptuous spa could keep you indoors for days, offering a (slightly less brutal than traditional) hammam experience, from which you will emerge with the complexion of a newborn baby. Upstairs you can lie in the sun amongst the greenery or enjoy a cocktail on the sprawling rooftop, which offers views of the Atlas Mountains and the bustling market down below. Behind their heavy wooden doors, each suite is perfectly designed, with beaded chandeliers, gold basins, pots of plump roses and Moroccan crafts bringing colour and warmth to every corner – pure luxury in the centre of the humming Medina.
- +212 524 388 008
- Go to Website
- 403 Rue de La Kasbah
Riad Mena
Originally a privately owned home, Riad Mena now offers a tranquil escape a stone’s throw from the main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa. Six spacious rooms surround a courtyard filled with hanging vines, verdant plants and blooming flowers, while traditional decor includes colourful tiled floors, metal lanterns and antique Berber rugs. After a day spent winding through the twisting alleys of the Medina, retreat to Riad Mena’s heated pool before heading to the terrace for drinks under the stars.
- +212 524 38 18 28
- Go to Website
- 70 Derb J´Did
Douar Graoua
40000
Riad Jardin Secret
While retaining original features and style, fashion duo Cyrielle and Julien have injected this traditional Moroccan house with niche touches and minimalist flourishes. Spend days getting lost within the magical souks before retreating to the airy comfort of Riad Jardin Secret. Dine on its bright-pink roof terrace, where vegan food is served against a backdrop of the bustling Medina.
- +212 524 37 66 06
- Go to Website
- 43-46 Arset Aouzal Bab Doukkala
40000
Le Riad Berbère
Minimalist interiors and relaxed decor give way to period craftsmanship at Le Riad Berbère. The paved courtyard is centred around an octagonal pool, which shimmers in the dappled sunlight streaming through banana palms and citrus trees. A private hammam and massage room is perfect for relaxing throughout the day. Come evening, climb up a private staircase for drinks on your bedroom’s balcony.
- + 212 524 38 19 10
- Go to Website
- 23 derb Sidi Ahmed Ben Nasser
Kaat Ben Nahid
40000
