Riad Dar Naima  

Exploring the narrow alleys in the medina, you may fantasise about taking a peak behind one of the many ornate, heavily-carved wooden doors concealing…who knows what delights? At Riad Dar Naima you'll find your very own oasis of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of ancient Al Hamra, or Marrakech as we know it. Built around a cool, tree and palm-filled central courtyard, this traditional Riad gradually reveals a veritable treasure trove of authentic Moroccan living.

Located in the Quartier Mouassine of the medina, and a few minutes walk from the famous Jemaa el-Fna Square, the Riad Dar Naima is an ideal base to explore this exciting, vibrant city. With only eight guestrooms, service is friendly and attentive yet wholly unobtrusive. The entire house is painted and furnished in passionate reds, sunshine yellows and cool blues, with potted trees and plants thriving in all the outdoor areas. Dotted around are numerous beautiful, ornate lamps which enchantingly illuminate the Riad during the balmy evenings.

A real treat in this Riad is the traditional hammam. Take time out from exploring, bartering and sight-seeing to sweat out any tensions in this heady steam room. The Riad also offers massages and beauty treatments as an extra indulgence.

Leading from the hub of the Riad, you'll discover several living rooms and a dining room, all furnished in warm, inviting reds with hand-carved wooden tables and a row of striking shuttered internal feature windows echoing the Islamic arches of the medina. Casting your gaze upwards, you'll see grand arches supporting the upper levels and you'll catch glimpses of the external corridors and glittering stained-glass windows. Feel the soft rugs underfoot, and, on cooler evenings, snuggle up on the sofas next one of the hearty fireplaces. The exposed brick kitchen is not out of bounds, and your hosts welcome you to help prepare your meals if you harbour an interest in Moroccan gastronomy. They only use fresh produce purchased from the local markets and pride themselves on showing the diversity of Moroccan cuisine.

We believe the Riad's crowning glory is the terracotta coloured terrace which overlooks the courtyard. An ideal spot to enjoy a refreshing glass of mint tea and pastries, you'll be thrilled by the views over the rooftops of the medina and beyond to the staggering Atlas Mountain range. Surrounded by potted fruit trees and shrubs, bask in the sun while relaxing on the sunbeds. Alternatively, catch up on some holiday reading in the spacious shaded area, reclining on one of the several cushioned blue sofas.

After a busy day in the city, you'll look forward to unwinding in your comfortable bedroom. All the rooms are uniquely styled, with their own intimate seating areas and hold a mixture of modern fixtures and fittings and traditional hand-carved wooden furniture, rugs and throws. A sleepy haven for all your Moroccan dreams.

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