Choosing the right style of accommodation is a big part of planning any overseas trip and Morocco has it all, from uber luxury hotels in major cities to simple guesthouses in the countryside. And everything in between.
Riads
A riad is a boutique Moroccan guesthouse, and, given the choice, I would choose a riad over a Western-style hotel, every time. But if you are drawn to the allure of a global hotel chain, with modern, international standard amenities, such as a gym, swimming pool, a bar and large communal areas, then a hotel may the right choice for you. You can be dropped off at the front door, you can choose from multiple room types, and it will all feel familiar. But you will be missing out on a real Moroccan experience. So, before you decide, here are some thoughts on staying in a riad.
Riads are found mainly in the medinas, the old, traditional areas of Moroccan towns. Many were originally the private homes of wealthy merchants and vary in style from simple to luxurious, but always with an emphasis on personal service and Moroccan hospitality. Rooms are generally centred around an inner courtyard or garden, often featuring a fountain, small pool or maybe some citrus trees. Riads are generally smaller than hotels and may only have six or eight rooms, often of different sizes and styles.
Reflecting the Islamic tradition of privacy, riad rooms usually face inwards, towards the courtyard, rather than out to the street. Although most riads now have air-conditioning, in the past, the design, with small, outward-facing windows and a central courtyard, helped to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the house. Many riads have a rooftop terrace looking out over the medina: the perfect place for breakfast, in warmer months, or to relax and watch the sunset in the evening.
You may also come across the word ‘dar’ which means ‘home’ in Arabic, while ‘riad’ means garden. Traditionally, 'riad' would have been the term used to describe only the larger homes in the medina.
Don't be alarmed if the entrance to your riad is an unassuming doorway in a medina alleyway - these doors give no hint as to what lies inside. Once inside, you will often be amazed by intricate zellige (traditional Moroccan tiling), delicate wood carving and beautiful textiles.
Be aware that riads in the middle of the medina have no road access so you may be dropped off some distance away. Porters, either from the riad itself, or working in the medina, are usually available to assist with carrying luggage. And, since riads are generally housed in old buildings, many do not have an elevator. So if you struggle with stairs, it's worth asking whether a room is available on the ground floor.
Kasbah hotels
A kasbah is a traditional fortress, found mostly in the south of Morocco. Historically, kasbahs were the fortified homes of local leaders, often built to keep the family safe from invaders. Made from rammed earth (adobe), they are imposing buildings with narrow windows, heavy wooden doors, crenelated walls and often towers or turrets. Their thick exterior walls keep the interior cool in the heat of summer.
Some of the old kasbahs in the south of Morocco have been converted into guest accommodation, while others have been purpose-built as hotels. As with riads, they range in style and price from simple to luxurious. They provide a unique Moroccan experience and, if your Moroccan journey includes the south, why not take the opportunity to stay in a kasbah?
Desert camp
Spending a night or two in the Sahara is the iconic Moroccan experience and, over the last few years, many new camps have sprung up in the desert around Merzouga and M’Hamid el Ghizlane, the two main towns on the edge of the Sahara.
As with other types of accommodation, there are camps to suit every budget. Tents are usually permanent. Some will have ensuite bathrooms, some will not. Check if the camp you want to visit has tents with air-conditioning – essential if you’re travelling in the warmer months. But don't miss the opportunity for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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Staying in a Moroccan riad or kasbah or desert camp is more than just finding a place to sleep – it’s a chance to have a unique Moroccan experience and to enjoy the traditional hospitality for which Morocco is famous.
If you have any questions about Moroccan accommodation or would like recommendations of places to stay, please get in touch.
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