Morocco is a fast becoming a firm favourite with budget travelers. An exotic land that’s only a short flight from Europe, on a typical holiday you can can bag a bargain in the souks, go on a desert adventure, or get lost in the narrow lanes of a Medina.
Busy cities like Marrakech and Fez can seem a little touristy but look slightly further afield and you will find plenty of opportunities to experience authentic travel in Morocco. And there’s nowhere more authentic to stay than a Moroccan Riad.
These traditional guesthouses are fantastic value for money and offer similar benefits to many of the hostels in Morocco – a friendly, family-run atmopshere, the odd free meal, and private rooms. They also feel typically Moroccan, with beautiful decor like tiled courtyards and giant floor cushions.
To continue our love affair with Riads, we’ve picked some of the most beautiful in Morocco – we hope you like them as much as we do!
1. Riad Jomana
Surrounded by the bazaars and lively streets of the Old City, the Riad Jomana is a jewel of a guesthouse in Marrakech. With only two rooms and two suites to choose from, this is a peaceful place to crash after a hectic day of sightseeing. The service is second to none, with a friendly doorman, and team offering a selection of excursions furthur afield. The massages and escorted tours are top-rated by guests.
Get ready to recite “Here’s looking at you, kid…” in this plush Riad in Casablanca, the setting for the classic love story. There are only six rooms at this artsy apartment, each an eclectic mix of Art Deco and traditional Moroccan style. There’s also a pretty garden, roof terrace and internet in every room.
A laid-back oasis in the heart of Fez, the Riad Dar Chifra is located on a hill overlooking the Medina. The friendly hosts are incredibly welcoming, and offer a home made breakfast on the patio, and mint tea and pastries in the afternoon. There’s even a Hamman on site, for the ultimate spa indulgence.
4. Riad Zahra
In hippie hot spot Essaouira, the Riad Zahra is only 2 minutes walk to the beach, and boasts beautiful views of the ocean. The Riad is certainly pretty, with its Andalucian and Arabian architecture and tiled floors, but it’s the facilities that really make Zahra stand out. There’s a pool, restaurant and bar on site, satellite TV in the bedrooms, facilities for children, a solarium, and a kite-surfing school for tackling the famously rocky surf.
This rural retreat is set in an ancient two-hectare olive grove in the peaceful village of Imarigha, 9km south of Asni, and an hour from Marrakech. Perfect for a romantic getaway, the Riad has four intimate cottages surrounding a large swimming pool, all framed by the stunning backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. The chef has worked at some of the best restaurants in Marrakech, so expect top quality Moroccan cuisine.
This traditional Andalucian house is in the mountain village of Chefchaouen, northern Morocco. There are 13 spacious rooms here, but you can also opt to sleep under the stars on the roof terrace in the summer! Right beside the Medina, you can walk to traditional shops, selling local produce like wool garments and woven blankets, and a delicious crumbly goats cheese.
This Riad is quite simply stunning inside – the decor is fit for a king, with walls adorned with mirrors and paintings. There is also a selection of private and shared rooms, perfect if you’re really strapped for cash. The softly lit inner courtyard and bar with roof terrace are ideal for lazy evenings al fresco. Don’t forget to sample some of the chef Rachida’s cooking!
This traditional Berber building is an eco-friendly lodge, at the foot of the High Atlas mountains. Stay here for the chance to visit some of the many natural landmarks nearby, and enjoy a rustic cottage surrounded by almond trees and olive groves.
This Riad is in Oualidia, a scenic fishing village famous for its beach, landscape and delicious oysters! The only Riad in the village, Dar Zuina has several rooms clustered around a courtyard of flowers, all furnished with lush silk drapes and hand-made blankets. There’s also a Moroccan lounge with fireplace for relaxing on winter evenings, or chilling after a meal of local seafood from chef Zahra!
10. Riad Zahraa
The Riad Zahraa is in Meknes, a more laid-back alternative to Marrakech and Fez. This charming guest house is in the heart of the Medina, tucked behind a secluded alleyway. Feast your eyes on the central courtyard, with its Islamic arches, antique carved furniture and tiled floors decked out in Berber rugs.
Inspired by our selection of Riads? Then check our guide to cheap holidays in Morocco.
Morocco is full of backpacker friendly properties, and right now, if you book a property with HostelBookers, you’ll get an exclusive discount on desert tours with Authentic Morocco. Check out details of the offer here, and get ready for a desert adventure this winter!
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