Maison Arabo Andalouse

The rich design of old Marrakech is on full display in this 19th-century riad, maintained by the hotel with as much authenticity as possible. Expect vibrant color, detailed plaster work, cedar wood carvings, and other traditional motifs illuminated further by a sun-drenched central shaft around which the rooms are centered. The jewel box-like lobby at the base leads into a small, lovely courtyard garden, with arches, palms, banana trees, carved stone, and a small and inviting plunge pool in the center. Add in the ground floor restaurant (with romantic fireplace) and rooftop bar, and there’s much to keep the family and couples who check in here occupied and pampered. 

Few places bring Africa’s ancient history to life more than the labyrinthine red-walled medina of Marrakech, and the Maison Arabo-Andalouse hotel lies right in the heart of it. In fact, the 16th-century El Badi Palace is virtually right outside the door and an excellent place to begin exploring the many treasures of the old city, most of them reachable on foot. It also means a good pair of walking shoes makes the most effective transportation, as public transportation within the center scarce and unreliable, at least outside the green horse-drawn calèches. Otherwise, make use of the beige grand and petit taxis, which are also the most convenient way to get into the city from Menara Airport and to Marrakech train station, both about a 15-minute drive from Maison Arabo-Andalouse. 

• Six-mintue walk to El Badi Palace
• Nine-minute walk to Jardin majorelle
• 10-minute walk to Bahia Palace
• 11-minute walk to Dar Si Said Museum and  Saadian Tombs
• 13-minute walk to Place Jemaa el-Fna
• 18-minute walk to Dar Cherifa
• 21-minute walk to Koutoubia Mosque 
• 22-minute walk to Marrakesh Museum and Ben Youssef Medersa
• 13-minute drive to Bab Debbagh tanneries

As the only riad in the kasbah with its original structure intact, the eight suites each remain individual in layout and size, with ornate (but not overly so) decor. The colorful spaces have stucco and plaster work, encaustic tiles, painted wood, and vaulted brick ceilings binding them together. Beds range from twin to king-size, some with canopies, and all rooms feature seating areas and desks, air-conditioning, safety deposit boxes, free Wi-Fi, and some add mini-fridges and private terraces, but all lack kettles and coffeemakers. Bathrooms have a similar look, and they contain showers, bathrobes, hairdryers, and toiletries, while upgraded bathrooms come with bidets, double sinks, and separate toilets. Rollaway beds are available on request. 

This charming property offers a solid lineup of features. At the literal top is the rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy close-up views of El Badi Palace over the free hot breakfast, which receives high marks from guests, or lunch or tea. Meals from the full-service restaurant downstairs are also served in the lounge, or by the plunge pool in the courtyard garden. There's no fitness room or spa on-site, but other amenities include a 24-hour front desk, currency exchange, phone and fax, postal service, and a travel desk. Guests can also take advantage of the housekeeping and laundry facilities. There is no parking on-site, but it’s available nearby. Airport transfers can be arranged for additional charge. Wi-Fi is free throughout.