55, Derb Ferrane, Riad Laarouss, Marrakech, Morocco | (586) 210-9239
Quiet Medina location, near markets and Jemaa el-Fna square
Eight individually styled rooms have gorgeous handmade furnishings
In-room air-conditioning, hairdryers, and toiletries
Canopied beds, sitting areas, and/or Zellige-tiled bathrooms in some units
Heated courtyard pool with adjacent lounging and dining areas
Rooftop terrace with loungers, tables, umbrellas, and potted plants
Free continental breakfast with fresh-squeezed juices and pancakes
Small, relaxing spa offering Turkish hammam and massages
Quality meals for lunch and dinner, plus welcome tea and cookies
Free pet stays and property-wide Wi-Fi
Alley location can be hard to find, and vehicle approach isn't possible
Some bathrooms are separated from rooms by curtains
No in-room TVs, kettles, phones, fridges, or safes
Some rooms and the pool are small
Use of Turkish hammam incurs fees
No elevators (but ground-level rooms available)
Wi-Fi is weak in some rooms
The three-pearl Riad Les Jardins Mandaline is a boutique, traditional property with eight rooms centered around a charming internal courtyard. As for many area riads, its alleyway location in Marrakech's Medina can be challenging, and further drawbacks include a lack of in-room TVs, fridges, and safes, as well as elevators. Still, Moroccan charm here is authentic, and rich decor is colorful. The courtyard's plunge pool is attractive, and free breakfasts are served by here or on a a rooftop terrace. Dining and spa facilities are additional offerings, and the 24-hour staff are notably welcoming, plus they can arrange excursions. For a property with a few more amenities, consider Les Borjs de la Kasbah, though rates will be higher.
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Scene
Traditional riad-style hotel with courtyard pool and quiet location
Tucked away amid winding alleys leading to the Medina's Souk, this property oozes traditional charm, and sanctuary-like settings here contrast the bustle of nearby markets. However, the hotel can be hard to locate, and vehicles must stop at the nearest thoroughfare, after which access is via small walkways. Pink stone and intricate woods make for authentic first impressions, and the riad's layout centers around its internal courtyard plunge pool. Moroccan charm is abundant, from ogee arches, Maghrebian tiling, and colorful fabrics on ample seating, plus lanterns, plants, and draped alcoves. Like the welcome mint tea and cookies, the richly outfitted spa is authentic. Note that there are no elevators for upper-level rooms. While kids are welcome, a romantic vibe here is best-suited to adults.
Location
Deep in Marrakech's Medina, near souks and Jemaa el-Fna
The hotel's location in a maze-like alleyway can be hard to find and feel intimidating at night, but they allow travelers to explore the endless twists and turns that form Marrakech's historic center. "Souk" market activity begins about a five-minute walk away, and the wealth of handicrafts, local goods, and spices stretch many blocks toward the main Jemaa el-Fna square (15 minutes on foot). Street food here turns lively in evenings with acrobats and drummers. Marrakech Museum and the 14th-century Ben Youssef Madrasa are also about a 15-minute walk, and it's around twice that for El Badii Palace, although cheap taxis are a good alternative for farther destinations. Marrakesh Menara Airport is a 17-minute drive, and airport transfers are available.
Rooms
Cozy rooms with gorgeous, distinctly Moroccan decor
The eight individually named, tastefully decorated rooms aren't the largest, but they're exquisitely outfitted. Light walls and tiled floors have warm tones from draping in earthy colors, accented by deep woods in window shutters, dressers, and headboards. Handmade furnishings and wall mountings are souk-sourced, featuring traditional Moroccan or African tribal influences. Tiffany lamps, lanterns, and tassel door handles are lovely touches. The traditionally adorned bathrooms with showers are stunning, featuring colorful Zellige tiling or brass fixtures accompanied by elegantly displayed towels and toiletries, though some have some wear and tear. On the downside, some rooms are separated from bathrooms only by curtains. Larger rooms offer seating areas, and Triple Rooms have an extra bed. All units benefit from AC, hairdryers, free crib fittings, and a courtyard or city rooftop view. Wi-Fi is free but can be weak in rooms. Unfortunately, there are no TVs, desks, kettles, fridges, or safes. Upper-level rooms are reached by stairs, but ground-floor units are available.
Features
Courtyard pool and rooftop terrace serving free breakfasts
Guests generally spend their days exploring the mesmerizing Medina, but there are quality features to keep guests occupied on-site. The central courtyard houses the heated plunge pool, which is small but sufficient for a quick dip. Cushioned wicker chairs and sofas in bold reds, purples, and oranges contrast the Moorish white archways here, and climbing ivy and lanterns add cozy touches. Guests can dine here or on the calm rooftop terrace housing tables and chairs, cushioned loungers, and umbrellas. Free breakfasts consist of continental breads, pancakes, homemade cakes, jams, and honeys, plus fresh-squeezed juice, tea, and coffee. Tea, beers, and wines are available all day, and a small dining room serves Moroccan meals.The spa is authentic with Taledakt stone and copper detailing, and the Turkish hammam has vaulted ceilings, but sadly also an access fee. Massages are available in a traditionally decorated treatment room. There are no fitness facilities. Staff are available 24/7 and can arrange excursions or airport transfers (both at a fee). Pets stay free, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.
