Who hasn't dreamed of staying in a riad, a traditional Moroccan residence offering a unique and authentic experience? Nestled in the heart of the medinas, riads reflect the Moroccan art of living, where luxury and history blend harmoniously. In this article, we reveal just some of the reasons why a stay in a riad is an experience not to be missed on your next trip to Morocco.
The architecture and decoration of a riad
The riad, a word of Arabic origin meaning "garden", is a traditional Moroccan house built around an inner courtyard planted with trees and decorated with fountains. The architecture of a riad is characterized by thick adobe or brick walls, supported by massive carved wooden pillars. The warm ambience is created by a subtle blend of noble materials such as zellige (glazed tile mosaic), tadelakt (traditional lime-based plaster) and plaster chiselled into geometric or floral patterns.
Marvel at the richness of Moroccan craftsmanship
In every nook and cranny of a riad, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the splendid creations of carpentry, maâlem (a craftsman specializing in the art of zelliges), sculpted plaster and wrought iron. Furniture is also chosen with taste and care, respecting the overall harmony. For example, you'll discover sofas covered in shimmering fabrics, coffee tables adorned with copper or blown-glass tops, and openwork metal lighting fixtures projecting astonishing shadow effects.
The soothing, relaxing atmosphere of a riad
One of the undeniable special features of a stay in a riad is the sense of calm and serenity you feel as soon as you step inside. The particular layout of riads, with their inner courtyards, offers a pleasant coolness and welcome silence, far from the hustle and bustle and heat of the city. Every room is a place where you can relax, forget time and everyday worries, and recharge your batteries.
Fill up on positive energy with Moroccan feng shui
Feng shui, the age-old Chinese art of harmonizing environmental energy, watercolors its fundamentals with local riad design principles. The orientation of the rooms, the meticulous arrangement of decorative elements and the play of water invite you to calm and meditation. So it's not unusual to feel a sense of well-being during your stay in these precious surroundings.
Personalized services for a unique experience
Staying in a riad means enjoying a warm welcome, personalized treatment and exclusive guest services, while feeling at home away from home. Some riads also offer cooking classes, while others offer the chance to enjoy a hammam or a traditional massage: a true immersion in Moroccan life.
Enjoy home-made culinary specialties
During your stay in a riad, be sure to sample the delicious local recipes prepared by the expert hands of the house staff. Delicious tagines, couscous with fresh vegetables and oriental pastries will delight your taste buds and take you on a journey through the flavors of Morocco.
Celebrate your special events with glamour and authenticity
Finally, the enchanting decor of a riad is ideal for celebrating a special occasion with friends or family. Weddings, birthdays, reunions: every event can be tailor-made to suit your desires, so that your day will be unforgettable, with a touch of Oriental magic. If required, the riad team can offer you the help and advice you need to personalize your event to suit your tastes.
Explore Marrakech and its surroundings
Staying in a riad is also an ideal location from which to explore Marrakech and its treasures. Whether you're strolling through the narrow streets of the medina, browsing the bustling souks or visiting the many palaces and museums, there's plenty to do, to say the least! And if you fancy a breath of fresh air, why not take a trip to the Ourika Valley, at the foot of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains?
- Jardin Majorelle: This magnificent garden, created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and bought by Yves Saint Laurent, is a veritable oasis of peace, offering a plunge into the heart of the exotic.
- Place Jemaa el-Fna: The beating heart of Marrakech, this square is home to street performances and stalls where you can buy a variety of local products, such as delicious freshly squeezed orange juice or a tajine.
- The Palais Bahia: A vast architectural complex built at the end of the 19th century, it testifies to the wealth of Moroccan know-how in decoration and ornamentation.
There's no doubt that your stay in a riad will leave you with indelible memories. Don't hesitate to treat yourself to this enchanting interlude in the heart of the Moroccan art of living!