Les Jardins de La Koutoubia

Les Jardins de La Koutoubia is a riad that has been owned by the Ouarzazi family since the 13th century and updated by French interior designer Elisabeth Drapeau. The hotel’s palatial architectural designs, Moorish wooden railings, and tropical foliage spill out onto the busy street entrance. The hotel appeals mostly to couples, but families stay at the property as well. Wooden domed ceilings, red carpeting, and tufted sofas give the lobby a romantic and upscale feel.

Inside, the lush courtyards -- with fountains and stylish rocking chairs that line outdoor hallways -- create a serene escape from the hectic medina. Guests are given a customary Moroccan welcome with mint tea and pastries. The ryad pool -- including a children's section -- is at the center of the property with palms, cushioned lounge furniture, and white umbrellas. The rooftop pool offers stylish lounge chairs, towels, and umbrellas, along with views of the 11th-century Koutoubia mosque.

Historical attractions, restaurants, and cafes are within close walking distance of this centrally located Marrakech hotel. The medina is a 14-minute walk northeast while the Koutoubia mosque is across the street. Jemaa el-Fna square, Souk El Bahja, Marrakech Tours, and the Marrakech Museum are all short walks away as well, and it’s a 10-minute drive southwest to the airport. Outside of the property itself, the streets are bustling with vendors and street performers, and guests recommend hiring a reputable tour guide. 

Rose petals decorate a range of suites and Medina or Patio units. Moorish designs and textiles along with modern furnishings create a luxurious experience. Each room is uniquely styled and comes with daily housekeeping service. Rooms have safes, ceiling fans, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and minibars. Bathrooms have showers and tubs, marble or mosaic tiles, bathrobes, slippers, bidets, separate toilet rooms, and high-end toiletries. Furnished balconies or terraces overlook the Koutoubia mosque, streets, and/or gardens. Medina units have red tufted sofas, stylish photography, and medina views. Suites offer sitting areas and large bathrooms with rainfall showerheads. Irons and cribs are available upon request.

The hotel offers Moroccan, French, and Indian cuisine in several different venues. Artwork and wooden ceilings fill the poolside Imlil snack bar. The rooftop terrace bar and restaurant Des Jardins de Bala has Marrakech views and colorful interiors with fireplaces. The red decorated Restaurant Marocain -- with a grand piano -- gets high marks for its romantic style. Bar Ouarzazi is intimate with dark wood furniture and striped tapestries. The elegant Le Relais de Paris, near a quiet pool, features photos of celebrities who’ve been past visitors.

For those looking to relax, the ryad salon provides elegant poolside lounges, a pool table, fireplaces, and luxury Moorish designs. An open-air library houses traditional furnishings and an Apple computer.

The Carita spa features Moroccan architecture, five hammams, seven treatment and massage rooms, and bath therapy. Also on hand are a trendy hair/nail salon and an indoor pool with archways, red lanterns, and lounge chairs. A bright gym offers modern equipment and a flat-screen TV.