Riad Assakina

This mid-range hotel was first opened in 2013 and the decor is traditional, yet stylish, with lots colorful accents in walls, furniture, rugs, and textiles. The hotel is centered around a peaceful courtyard and, with its location towards the southern end of the Medina, is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets outside. Guests are welcomed with warm tea and biscuits and there’s free afternoon tea each day -- served on the rooftop terrace or patio area -- and helps to set the romantic tone. There’s a charming interior courtyard with pool and there’s a second pool on the rooftop terrace, which also features shaded loungers to take in the views of the surrounding Medina. Given the romantic vibe, couples are the main guests here, but it’s not uncommon for families to pass through from time to time.  

With a location at the southern end of the Medina, the hotel is a bit farther from some of the city’s main attractions, though the quieter setting in the Jewish Quarter is hard to fault. Bahia Palace is literally around the corner. Dar Si Said Museum is four minutes away on foot, and El Badi Palace is an eight-minute walk. It’s around a 15-minute walk to the main square, Jemaa el-Fna, and there are lots of cafes, restaurants, abd galleries to explore all around. The city's famous souks are closer to the square. Arset el Blik, the main bus terminal, can be reached by car in 10 minutes, and Menara Airport is just a 15-minute cab ride from the hotel. Transfers can be arranged by contacting the hotel (for a fee).

The hotel has six individually styled rooms, all done up in natural tones with splashes of warm colors in the traditional furniture, chairs, and accessories. Floors are decorated with earth-tone tiles topped by brightly colored patterned rugs for comfort. Distinctive Moroccan touches are found throughout, from the plaster work to stripes and symbols on the cushions. Each room has a small flat-screen TV with satellite channels -- not all that common for riads in the Medina -- as well as safes, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Fresh flowers greet new guests and fresh fruit is placed in rooms each day. All rooms have seating areas -- one of the suites also has a raised tadelakt platform for the bed -- and are arranged around the central courtyard, which adds to the quiet atmosphere. Bathrooms are traditionally decorated with tadelakt walls in neutral tones, mosaic tiling, single or double vessel sinks, and showers. Counter space is limited in some and pump toiletries and hairdryers are provided. 

This hotel packs in a nice amount of features that add value to a stay here. The courtyard -- with a shallow pool -- is particularly lovely and is surrounded by seating areas for relaxing or reading. The rooftop terrace – which also has a plunge pool -- is another highlight, and provides a secluded spot to take in the surrounding Medina views and enjoy breakfast and afternoon tea. Dining can be done in the restaurant or terrace, and the hotel offers traditional local fare and international dishes. Bear in mind that reservations are required for evening meals. A Moroccan breakfast is available, with pastries, pancakes, French toast, and fruit. It's included in the nightly rates. Airport transfers can be arranged (for a fee) and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. The hotel's boutique sells a variety of local, artisanal items that are great for gifts.