Riad Farnatchi

Originally created by acclaimed British hotelier Jonathan Wix as his own private vacation house, Riad Farnatchi was converted into a hotel in 2004. Great service isn't uncommon in Marrakech's riads, but Farnatchi's is particularly impressive, thanks to the high staff-to-room ratio and the oversight by Wix's son, who trained in London in hotel management before taking over here. The hotel expanded over the years to include several neighboring riads, which have all been combined and feature a fantastic mix of traditional Moroccan and modern European design. Most furnishings were handmade just for Farnatchi in Marrakech and, in combination with cozy fireplaces and colorful textiles, lend the property an exclusive yet incredibly comfortable air. There are numerous spaces in which guests can relax with a book or sip cups of mint tea, including two separate sitting rooms, a roof garden with sun loungers and a barbecue area, and two B'hous -- covered sitting areas with one side opening onto the gorgeous internal courtyard. With a candlelit dining room, sumptuous decor, and perfectly executed service, it comes as little surprise that the property entices many couples seeking romantic getaways within easy reach of the vibrant Medina. 

Riad Farnatchi is deep inside the old walled district of the city, surrounded by narrow pedestrian-only streets and alleys. The 11th-century Medina is an UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with historical structures and souks whose vendors sell traditional crafts. The nearest parking lot is a 10-minute walk from the hotel, and the Bahia Palace, Jamaa el Fna, and Dar Si Said Museum are within a 15- to 25-minute walk. There are several restaurants within closer reach. Marrakech Menara International Airport is a 15-minute drive, once outside of the pedestrian streets.

Despite its overall spaciousness, Riad Farnatchi has only nine suites, making them (and their connecting common spaces) much bigger than the average riad accommodations in the Medina. Each has been individually designed around European comforts, with classic Moroccan decor and local, handmade furniture. Colorful woven rugs, metallic hanging lanterns, framed artwork, and plush leather chairs combine for the feel of an upscale apartment. Narrow, often twisting stairways with copious amounts of natural wood and marble lead to upper rooms. All have breezy sitting areas, many in the form of outdoor terraces or private courtyards; some have less private terraces that open to the interior courtyard. Most have fireplaces and designer work desks in the plush living rooms. Bedrooms have Bose iPod docks and flat-screen TVs, and though coffeemakers and mini-fridges are lacking, the staff -- who can speedily accommodate any food or beverage request -- give little reason to need them. Molton Brown toiletries can be found in the incredible bathrooms, which have unique soaking tubs and walk-in rainfall showers. All rooms have air-conditioning and heating, and hot water bottles are distributed on cooler nights. 

Few requests are too big for Riad Farnatchi, which can also be rented out in its entirety as a massive party house or private event venue. The staff can arrange excursions and tours across the country, from little scavenger hunts in the Medina, to golf trips outside of town, to adventurous day trips to other cities. There's enough to keep most travelers busy right here though, with a rooftop terrace that has wonderful views of the city, and a gorgeous courtyard with a pool and garden -- plus an indoor pool with an underwater jet stream to facilitate swimming. The spa has a beautiful, white marble hammam, and dramatic treatment rooms with red walls and mood lighting. The riad's kitchen gets high marks for its traditional Moroccan cuisine -- including tagines cooked for hours -- and locally sourced ingredients, and free breakfast includes eggs cooked-to-order -- however, meals other than breakfast must be arranged in advance. Rates also include a pair of Fez hats and Moroccan bath robes for guests to keep.