Stay Like a Sultan in Marrakech - Extraordinary Riad Guest Experiences Await in Morocco

Lush riad courtyard in the center of the bustling Medina in Marrakech

If you truly want to experience authenticity, staying in a historic riad in the bustling center of the Medina is the ultimate Moroccan experience. Each riad has a unique identity, infused with the personality and unique history of the persons behind it and their unique relationship with Morocco.

A whole different cloistered world could, and still can, be found behind the sturdy riad doors. Bright and airy, a large number of traditional riads have been converted into boutique hotels since year 2000, allowing us as visitors to live like a privileged local while in Morocco.

These quintessential, traditional buildings with their multistory enclosed courtyards, artistic detailed tiles or stone carvings and sunny rooftop terraces are filled with a unique North African atmosphere. Just a couple of night’s stay will give you an insight into the local way of life for hundreds of years. Marrakech in particular, is dotted with beautiful riads that have been converted into luxury hotels and boutique hotels.

What is a riad? Historic riads are only found in the Medinas (old walled city centers) of a Moroccan city. Practically, building upwards, rather than outwards, allowed wealthy families to enjoy more living space in areas where land was scarce or at a premium. The fact that riads have no outer windows meant that properties could be built adjoining each other on up to three sides. This is a large reason why the medinas are often a web of interconnected buildings and narrow alley ways.

Riads have no windows facing the street, and the entryways are often plain wooden doors on a blank wall in a tiny alley in the Medina. These unremarkable exteriors offer absolutely no clue to the wonders within. The moment you step through the entry doors, you will be greeted by chirping birds, lush courtyards, ornamental architectural detailing and the most amazing hospitality experience. Most riads do not offer the amenities of a full hotel, but they are gorgeous, each room is uniquely different, and they offer a magic and a sense of adventure in Morocco, where the hospitality is absolutely unbeatable.

As a solo female traveler, I was faced with a certain anxiety, not knowing what lied beyond this unmarked door. No taxis can reach a traditional Riad, located in the labyrinthian spiderweb of the side alleys of the Medina, but a porter of the Riad will meet you with a cart on the closest public square to stroll you and your luggage down the intriguing cobweb of narrow bustling shopping alleys; then crisscrossing down a myriad of cobblestoned side alleys. I wondered, how will I ever find my way back, until I got into my comfort zone. It is the Islamic way - no ostentation outside the house, you show your wealth inside. It is so important to pay attention to any building or significant building in order to be able to backtrack your way to your riad after exploring the bustling Medina and rich architecture of Marrakech.

Riads take their name from the Arabic word for garden. The central feature of a Riad is an interior garden, usually with 4 squares of trees and a center fountain. A riad generally has two or more levels built around this central garden, with upper balconies overlooking the lower floor. Roof terraces with high walls are also common.

I chose to stay at Riad Kaiss, a 16th century building which was once the home of Sultan Moulay Yacoub, the ruler of Marrakech. It is a traditional Moroccan riad located near the UNESCO world heritage site Djema el Fna, the pulsing heart of this magical city and the Koutoubia Mosque. The Riad was bought in the 1980's by a French architect, Christian Ferre. His lifelong research and immersion in Moorish and Islamic arts inspired Ferre during his 25 year restoration of Riad Kaiss. He devoted his life to the project, working until his last days to bring the building back to his vision of its former glory. Imagine a 16th-century riad restored and transformed by a French architect and you will be able to picture the timeless glamour of this hotel, which feels more like a private home.

Exceptional service awaits you, with just 9 different style rooms and suites located on 3 floors around 2 traditional courtyards.  Complimented by a hammam, spa, swimming pool and roof terraces, Riad Kaiss is the perfect base to enjoy the best of what Marrakech has to offer. Every corner of the riad offers poetic touches and memories.

After the frenetic world of the Medina outside, you are greeted with quietness, birds chirping and and the joyous sounds of guests enjoying their tasty breakfast in wonderful nooks or seated in the center of the courtyard. Then you will be immersed and allured by all those vibrant colors and ornamental details of the riad. The first time I walked inside was one big surprise; around every corner there was something new to explore, from a tiny quaint living room lobby to the narrow curved staircases leading up the roof terraces with an intriguing view over the hidden oases of the city.

Stay at the rooftop suite, where Christian Ferre spent 40 years, and you will be in awe! Not to mention the amazing service of the staff. Welcomed by tea, cakes and dates, the staff did everything you can dream of to assure that you will enjoy  the unique history of the riad, and they will  assist you with exploring any special interest highlights of Marrakech. What do you want to eat tonight? Where do you want to enjoy your breakfast?

Address: Riad Kaiss, 65 Derb Jdid Riad Zitoun Kedim, Marrakech 40000, Morocco

“If you truly want to experience authenticity, staying in a historic riad in the bustling center of the Medina is the ultimate Moroccan experience”