L'Heure d'Ete

This charming riad dates back to the 11th century and served as a luxurious private residence before being converted into a hotel in 2006. The style throughout the hotel is understated, and helps create a peaceful escape from the bustling city squares outside. The mint tea and biscuits provided upon arrival help set that relaxed tone as well. Art and color go a long way throughout the hotel, everywhere from the vibrant red tones in the small restaurant to the charming courtyard and the tiled rooftop terrace. There are padded sun loungers up there that are prime for taking in the views of the Medina, and add to the romantic vibe at this property. We particularly liked the hotel’s garden, which offers a green, open-air space for guests to take time out from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city. Given the intimate boutique setting, it's no surprise that couples are the most frequent guests here, though small groups of friends and the occasional family pass through as well.

Located in the warren of pedestrian-only streets and alleyways that make up Marrakech's sprawling Medina, the hotel manages to retain a tranquil calm among the bustling tourist areas of the historic main square and surrounding souks. Jemaa el-Fna is a three-minute trip on foot and other major attractions, such as the El Badi Palace or Bahia Palace, are within a 10-minute walk. It's a bit farther to the stunning Kouboutia Mosque or the Ben Youssef Madrasa, both of which will take about 15 minutes to reach on foot. The city's bus terminal, Arset el Bilk, is eight minutes away on foot and regular transportation is available from the station to the airport. The city's main airport is a 15-minute drive away and transfers can be arranged by contacting the hotel (for a fee).  

The hotel has 14 rooms, including a single Suite, though for the most part they are small and similar in style, with double beds and traditional artwork on some walls. Rooms are decorated in rustic colors like brown, cream, and orange, plus bold matching or contrasting cushions, and muted colored tile floors with traditional patterned rugs. Although rooms have distinctive Moroccan touches, the beds and bedside tables are more modern and minimalist in style. There are no TVs or minibars in the rooms, common in riads in the Medina, but they do come with air-conditioning, safes, free Wi-Fi, and black-out drapes. The larger rooms have small seating areas with tables or desks, and the Suite has a separate sitting area. The rooms stay quiet, owing their arrangement around the central courtyard, which is a blessing given the hotel's location. The bathrooms are small, with no space for tubs, and counter space is limited, but each has a tiled stall shower, modern fittings, and large vessel sinks. Some of the toilets are in separate cubicles within the bathroom (depending on the room) and free pump-dispensed toiletries and hairdryers are provided. 

The hotel manages to pack a decent amount of features into a historical, boutique-sized package. Guests are treated to a continental breakfast each morning, with coffee, yogurt, and traditional home-made Moroccan breads (included in the room rate). This can be served on the rooftop terrace when the weather is warm. The hotel has a small bar, and the restaurant, serving traditional Moroccan fare, is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and evening meals (reservations are required for lunch and dinner). Padded loungers line the rooftop terrace and guests can relax here or soak in the enclosed whirlpool tub, which is big enough to hold four or five people. A Turkish bath, steam room, and beauty room make up the spa, which offers a range of treatments, including body scrubs, facials, and massages. Staff can also arrange airport transfers and off-site excursions on request. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, although this can be patchy in some areas.