Maison MK

A particularly inconspicuous wooden doorway opens into this 600-year old riad, where guests are first met by a small reception area dappled with patterned light from a single hanging fretwork lantern. Stepping into the courtyard, guests will find that owner and former fashion photographer Paul Hopkins has opted for a lighter and more playful take on Moroccan styling -- accompanied by background chill-out music throughout. The decor deviates from the typical busy geometric patterning and intricate carvings of similar properties in favor of softer forms with organic curves, wispy drapes, and uncluttered space. A tear-shaped plunge pool complete with a resident rubber duck sits just off a long fireplace, while several snug lounges provide nooks for secluded relaxation. Low-lit stairways lead to a roomy rooftop terrace, with billowing parachute-silk canopies and panoramic views over the medina and -- on a clear day -- the Atlas Mountains. 

The hotel is situated in a typically labyrinthine area of cobbled streets in the heart of Marrakech's sprawling medina. It's positioned just around the corner from the city's famous bustling souks, while the main square of Djemaa el Fna -- abuzz with snake-charmers, fortune-tellers, orange juice vendors, and nighttime food stalls -- is five minutes away on foot. As is the case with most hotels in the medina, there's no direct car access, but parking and taxi ranks are within a five-minute walk. Marrakech Menara International Airport is about 15 minutes' drive. 

All six rooms are located on the first level up and overlook the quiet inner courtyard. Decor in most rooms is understated and elegant, with neutral tones with "bejmat" tile floors and subtle Moroccan-flavored styling, while others are finished in warm spicy hues and cascading silk drapery. As in other riads, telephones and TVs are deliberately absent from the rooms, which here don't otherwise stint on high-end luxuries, such as fluffy towels, robes, 600-thread count Maison de Blanc linens, and beds fit for a king (Moroccan royalty reportedly uses the same). Bathrooms have walk-in rainfall showers and most include tubs, while toiletries are organic; rose petals are liberally sprinkled throughout. 

The hotel goes all-out on the tech front, offering free cell phones (with credit) to help guests who get lost (easy to do in the medina), as well as preloaded iPods and iPads for guests' use. The riad features one of the most renowned restaurants in the city -- Gastro MK -- which offers cocktails and canapes on the rooftop terrace before moving on to an outstanding five-course tasting menu. A superbly atmospheric but small spa provides the traditional hammam experience with body scrubs and massages, while a fireplace-warmed smoking room has shisha pipes and a cigar box. There's also a 24-hour snack menu and free afternoon tea, as well as free airport transfers for stays of at least three days.