Derb Chtouka, 21, Kasbah de Marrakech, Marrakech, Morocco | 33 1 72 72 92 02
Moroccan riad hotel with luxury decor, courtyards, and tropical gardens
Prime Marrakech location that’s a quick walk from the medina
Rooms feature Moorish decor, modern tech, and balconies or terraces
Lovely outdoor heated pool surrounded by palms
Tented outdoor fitness area
Cozy lounge features a flat-screen TV and Wii
Stylish roof terrace provides lounge chairs and city views
Charming spa includes a hammam, three solariums, and a barbershop
Moroccan cooking classes offered in a traditional kitchen
Restaurant features a lovely terrace and bar with fireplace
Freebies include breakfast, access to a DVD library, secured parking, and Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is reportedly slow
Some hotel fixtures are in minor disrepair
Guests complain about tip envelopes left in rooms prior to checkout
Hotel can be difficult to find, even with GPS
The 36-room Les Jardins de la Medina is a
riad that provides a luxurious, authentic Moroccan experience with tropical
fountain-filled courtyards, a heated pool, a rooftop terrace overlooking
Marrakech, and a spa, among other amenities. Rooms are sprinkled with rose
petals and feature stylish Moorish designs and balconies with French doors and
garden views. But the free Wi-Fi is reportedly unreliable, a common complaint
in the city.
Scene
Moroccan luxury riad features tropical gardens and heated pool
If you're looking for an authentic Moroccan
vacation that offers luxury decor and close access to the area medina, Les Jardins is
a solid option. The intimate atmosphere of the small hotel appeals mainly to couples with its tropical gardens, olive and bitter orange trees, babbling fountains in
tiled courtyards, and traditional architecture. This original Marrakech riad
was once a royal home which hosted the noblesse. The entrance to the hotel,
decorated with torches and a steel door, is on a narrow side street. Guests are
typically welcomed into the lobby -- featuring a large domed ceiling, whimsical
chandelier, and wooden front desk -- with hibiscus drinks and dried fruit.The pool area includes a
shallow kiddy section and is encircled by tropical plants. The stone deck
offers stylish wooden cushioned lounge chairs and patio tables along with a
small shower. Panoramic views of Marrakech can be seen from the roof terrace
that offers white patio furniture, greenery, a hammock, and a wooden gazebo with white sofas.
Location
Located in the old city, south of the area's medina
The hotel is on a quiet, narrow side street just south of the local medina. A number of historical sights and
attractions are nearby, with horse-drawn carriages directly outside the
property. Cultural attractions that are readily accessible by a quick car ride include Jemaa al Fna square, the Menara Gardens, and the Museum de
Marrakech -- along with the breathtaking architectural splendors of the Medersa
Ben Youseef. It’s also a 10-minute drive southwest to Marrakech Menara Airport.
Rooms
Luxury rooms feature stylish touches, up-to-date technology, and balconies or terraces
Sprinkled
rose petals and chic Moorish designs give Les Jardins' guest rooms a luxurious
feel. All rooms have mineral water, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, kettles,
safes, Moroccan sweets, minibars, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, ceiling fans, and
terraces or balconies with garden views. Garden Side units allow the option for additional beds. Bathrooms have luxurious fixtures, bathrobes, slippers, heated
towel racks (in some cases), and bathtubs and/or showers with rainfall
showerheads. Sultana rooms offer fireplaces, perfumed pillows,
wine, Nespresso machines, and large bathrooms with separate rooms for the toilets. Pet-friendly rooms are available (for a fee) as well.
Features
Traditional Moroccan dining and cocktails, cooking classes, a spa, and an outdoor fitness area
The on-site restaurant serves a free breakfast buffet
in a dining room outfitted with traditional Moroccan furniture, lanterns, and a
terrace. The bar, Le Kasbar, features large arched windows, lanterns,
decorative tea kettles, and wooden ceilings. Moroccan cooking classes are held
in a small traditional room, while the fitness area can be found outdoors in a
small paved circle. A white umbrella provides shade for a rowing machine, bike,
and stair climber. The spa offers a private treatment room, a hammam with
blue and gold Moorish tiles, and a charming barbershop along with multiple
solariums.