Palais Sebban

This 19th-century hotel is in the heart of Marrakech's picturesque Medina, and set over three floors between five different joined riads. Rooms are arranged around several courtyards, but the property still manages to remain calm and peaceful, away from the noise of the surrounding city. Guests are offered tea and pastries on arrival, as well as a free 30-minute massage during their stay (must be booked in advance), and both help to set the relaxed vibe. The overall style of the hotel may be too gaudy for some, with lots of vibrant colors and mosaic tiling throughout, and we did see some worn furniture. We spotted plenty of guests taking advantage of the tiled rooftop terrace during our visit, which isn't a surprise as there are views of the Medina and Atlas Mountains in the distance. We also liked the the charming open-air courtyard, which surrounds a small plunge pool, and offers lots of hidden nooks for relaxing or reading. Given the romantic boutique setting, it's no surprise that couples are the most frequent visitors here, but families and small groups occasionally pass through as well.

Located in the pedestrian-only streets of the Medina, Palais Sebban is an oasis of calm, a short distance from the tourist-filled areas of the ancient main square and surrounding souks. The UNESCO-designated Jemaa el-Fna is an eight-minute walk from the hotel -- close enough for the sounds of distant snake charmers to be heard on the air -- and the Kouboutia Mosque is 10 minutes away on foot.  A trip to the popular Ben Youssef Madrasa and mosque will take around 13 minutes on foot. The city's bus terminal, Arset el Blik, is an 11-minute walk, and guests can catch transport from here to Casablanca or Essaouira. Airport transfers can be arranged through the hotel (for a fee), and it's a 15-minute trip to the airport depending on traffic. 

The hotel has 25 rooms, varying in size, from Standard to Suites with terraces.  Each room is individually decorated, with a look that just might feel a bit over-the-top to some guests. Rich colors mix with mosaic tile floors, ornately carved wardrobes, brightly painted walls and ceilings, and jewel colored furniture to create a convincingly authentic style. The traditional Moroccan touches add a ton of character, though the original features of the rooms can be lost among the riot of patterns and colors, and some pieces -- like cheap wicker chairs -- look a bit dated.   

There are no TVs in most of the units (these can be requested), as is common in riads, but they do come with air-conditioning, minibars, safes, and free Wi-FI. The larger rooms and Suites are more spacious, with seating areas, and terraces overlooking the pool in some. Bedrooms are arranged around the inner and outer courtyards and stay quiet, which is a bonus considering the hotel's central location. Keep in mind that there are no elevators throughout the hotel, and some rooms have stairs in them.

The bathrooms continue the traditional Moroccan theme and vary in size and layout. Each has large single or double vessel sinks, some have bidets, and a few have tubs. Hairdryers, free bathrobes, and toiletries are provided. 

This boutique property manages to pack in quite a few features, and guests are treated to a traditional Moroccan buffet breakfast each morning -- including fruit, cheese, yoghurt and omelets. It can be eaten in the courtyard or rooftop terrace in warmer weather. The hotel has a bar and restaurant, serving local tagines and international fare, and is open for lunches and evening meals (reservations required). Padded seats and loungers are arranged on the rooftop terrace and this, as well as the central courtyard, offers space to relax in a more secluded setting. A full-service spa and traditional hamman is on-site, offering a range of treatments, such as massages and facials -- make sure to book the free 30-minute welcome massage ahead of time. The hotel staff are on hand to book treatments or arrange excursions and airport transfers (for a fee). Wi-Fi is available, although this can be patchy in places.