92 Derb Ahmed el Borj, Sidi Ben Slimane, Kaa Sour, Marrakech, Morocco | (618) 248-8274
Small riad with colorful, traditional decor throughout
Rich historical ambiance both in and around hotel
Somewhat central location near major sights
Pretty central courtyard and rooftop terrace
Guest rooms have AC, mini-fridges, and safes
Excellent free breakfast with Moroccan pancakes
Meal service available throughout day
24-hour front desk and room service
Dry cleaning and laundry (for a fee)
On-site car and bike rental
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Most major sights are a hike from the hotel
No in-room TVs, kettles, or coffeemakers
In-room Wi-Fi can be spotty
A few centuries ago, this riad was a typical middle class family residence, and the three-pearl Riad Slawi has retained its traditional style. Several floors wrap around an open courtyard, there's a rooftop terrace, and bright textiles, woodwork, and Moroccan tile throughout. Its four guest rooms follow suit, though they lack 21st-century creature comforts like flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers. The hotel is located slightly out of the fray, but also a bit farther from top sights. As with any property in the crowded medina, noise can be an issue and access challenging, with no cars allowed in the historic quarter. For a more modern taste of Marrakech, aim for the Hotel Le Caspian in the upscale Guéliz district, just west of the old city.
Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.
Scene
Traditional riad with rich decor and an intimate atmosphere
Like many traditional riads in Marrakesh, the entrance can be a little hard to find because it’s often a simple door in a tiny alley. Riad Slawi is no different, and similarly, once inside, the space expands to a more lush, colorful world. There's an open courtyard paved with tiles, and ferns, ivy, and flower pedals floating in a small central fountain add to the appeal. Look up to find elegant carved woodwork in the surrounding doors, railings, and windows. It’s here, and on the rooftop terrace, that the main socializing between the guests—predominantly couples and friends—takes place. It's also where breakfast, tea, and traditional dishes at lunch and dinner are served. A small covered alcove keeps the worst of the sun off your skin on the hottest days.
Location
In the medina, within walking distance to cafes and some sights
In the northwest section of Marrakech’s famous medina, this former riad puts guests in intimate proximity to the swirl of bazaars, fruit stalls, food vendors, snake charmers, and acrobats that make the old city so memorable. While it's within a short walk to some top sights, most are a hike of 25 minutes or more. With the heat, it might be worth taking one of the green horse-drawn calèches, the only option until you get outside the red walls, where the public bus lines run. Otherwise, make use of the beige grand and the petit taxis, which are the most convenient way to reach the city. Menara Airport is a 21-minute drive from Riad Slawi, and 15 minutes by car from Marrakech train station. - 15-minute walk to Ben Youssef Medersa, Marrakesh Museum, and Dar Cherifa
Rooms
Historical charm with colorful decor, but no TVs, coffeemakers, or kettles
Just four rooms make up this former riad, and in traditional fashion, they wrap around a central open courtyard. Each comes with the usual blend of equally traditional bright textiles in the upholstery, rugs, and curtains; arched ceiling supports and niches; carved woodwork, tile floors, metallic fixtures and accessories, including lamps, faucets, and teapots. Given the historical layout, rooms are divided into multiple small interconnected spaces, which include AC, twin or double beds, seating areas, lightly stocked mini-fridges, in-room safes, and free Wi-Fi, though it can be spotty (a common issue in the medina). There are no TVs, coffeemakers, or electric kettles, and while rooms have small windows that open to the courtyard, they don't get a lot of light. Bathrooms come with small showers or shower/tub combos, though they both lack curtains, and have wall-mounted soap dispensers but no toiletries.
Features
Rooftop terrace, open courtyard, plus free breakfast
The small size of Riad Slawi keeps amenities to a minimum, with dining at the top of the list. The free breakfast, with items such as Moroccan pancakes and freshly baked bread, gets consistent accolades from guests. Tea and traditional dishes—couscous, tagines, and more—are also served throughout the day. Room service lets you take it in bed, if that’s a preference, or better yet, enjoy them on the rooftop terrace with views of the medina. Other services available at an additional charge are ironing, dry cleaning, laundry, airport shuttle, and porter; the last is particularly useful if carrying many bags, as it’s a walk through the medina to reach the riad. There are no wellness amenities on-site or parking, but private parking is available nearby. Car and bike rentals can be arranged at the 24-hour front desk. Wi-Fi is free throughout.
