Hotel Riad Al Mansoura

Located in a small alley south of the Medina in the Jewish neighbourhood, the Riad Al Mansoura is approximately 5 minutes from Bahia palace, and a 20 minute walk from Jemaa El Fna square. A 20 minute cab ride will take you to the airport.

The Al Amsoura hotel resembles more of a dar (small Moroccan family house) than it does a riad. For one thing, it doesn't have the standard fountain generally featured in riads.

Thanks to its family atmosphere and the layout of the kitchen that opens onto the sitting room, the Riad Al Mansoura is more reminiscent of a boarding house than a riad. The sitting room is small and the interior decorating blends the local Moroccan style with the Italian heritage of the owner. The reception desk is found in the interior courtyard, where there are 2 working fireplaces, a modern zen fountain, and a large table where guests come together during their stay. There is a small sitting room on the first floor, but the best spot is undoubtedly on the top floor: a terrace with huge white deckchairs, tables, and large armchairs. It provides the perfect setting to relax and admire the view of Marrakech.

The establishment was entirely renovated before its 2007 inauguration and includes 5 double rooms as well as a suite with air conditioning. Each one boasts a different colour and specific decorative elements: Moroccan artwork depicting specific scenes, round mirrors, wooden painted stools, wooden wardrobes, and velvet armchairs. In general, these units are quite simple, which, rather than refinement, seems to be the marking feature of the establishment. Some details could be improved, such as the lack of storage space, the poorly lit bathrooms, or the scarceness of hospitality products. Our favourite room was the yellow one, which we highly recommend.

To dine at the riad, you have to book in advance. The menu includes a selection of local specialties as well as Italian dishes: it's really up to you. For breakfast, you can enjoy a cup of the traditional mint tea accompaned by Moroccan pancakes with cheese or jam and freshly pressed orange juice. Meals are served in the small lounge areas next to the swimming pools.