Riad Dar Dialkoum

Stepping through the heavy wooden front door, guests will find themselves in a low-lit orange-blossom-scented entrance hall that leads into a fine, 19th-century riad, which was first restored in 1999 and expanded in 2009 by French owners Muriel and Laurent, who live on the property. They have maintained its traditional Moroccan styling, which is displayed throughout. There's plenty of "bejmat" tiling, intricate wrought ironwork, and carved cedar wood, along with plenty of snug alcoves and lounges -- one with a fireplace and satellite TV -- a heated courtyard plunge pool, and four orange trees laden with fruit for most of the year. Tiled stairways lead up two floors to the rooftop terrace, which is dotted with numerous potted palms, flowers, and shrubs, and offers guests panoramic views over Marrakech. 

Riad Dar Dialkoum is located in a high-walled alley in the Bab Doukkala district on the northwest end of the medina. It's within a 10- to 15-minute walk of the entrance to the main souks, and a 15- to-20-minute walk to the lively Djemaa el-Fna square, with its snake-charmers, henna tattooers, and orange juice vendors. It's also within a 15-minute walk of other major medina sights, such as the historic Medersa Ben Youssef, the Museum of Marrakech, and the Museum of Photography. It's within a five-minute walk of the main bus station and taxi station, and a 15-minute walk to the Majorelle Garden in the new city. As is the case with many properties in the medina, there is no direct car access, but the riad has an airport shuttle service -- free for those staying at least three nights -- which guests are strongly advised to book to avoid getting lost within the medina's labyrinthian streets.

There are four rooms and three larger suites, which are individually styled with a mix of traditional carved-wood and handicrafts, along with some contemporary touches. Room size varies dramatically, from the tiny Aicha Room to the super-long (though narrow) suites with multiple windows. Rooms come with free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and safes. Flowers, fresh fruit, and mineral water are provided free of charge. Typical of the riad style, which seeks to emulate a home more than a hotel, there are no in-room TVs, although there is a TV in one of the lounges. Bathrooms are finished in vibrant colored "tadelakt" plaster with walk-in showers, and come with hairdryers, robes, and toiletries. 

A generous free breakfast is provided each morning, which can be taken in one of two patio courtyards or on the rooftop terrace. Mineral water, infusions, coffee, and the ubiquitous mint tea are also available anytime, free of charge. A home-cooked lunch and dinner are also available if arranged in advance, and can be taken on the rooftop terrace, by candlelight in the evening. There's lots of little lounge areas for guests to settle into, as well as a Berber-style tent and sun loungers on the roof. There's a heated plunge pool in the courtyard, though no on-site hammam. But the owners are on-hand, and will arrange for hammam appointments, spa services, and tours, and provide information on Marrakech.