During our journey through Morocco, we had the chance to stay in a variety of unique and charming accommodations. From traditional riads nestled in the heart of bustling medinas to serene desert camps under the stars, each stay offered its own distinct experience. Whether you’re seeking luxury or looking for a more authentic and local touch, Morocco’s diverse accommodations cater to every traveler’s style. Below, we’ve highlighted the places we stayed, each adding something special to our adventure.
Marrakesh
Riad L'Oiseau Du Paradis
Nestled in the serene neighborhood of Derb Cherrata, in Marrakech's southern part, Riad l’Oiseau du Paradis offers a perfect blend of convenience and tranquility. Just a leisurely 10-minute stroll from the lively city center, this riad allows you to easily immerse yourself in Marrakech's bustling souks and historic sites, yet retreat to a peaceful haven at any time.
Riad l’Oiseau du Paradis boasts 14 beautifully appointed rooms, each designed with comfort in mind and equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning and private bathrooms. The traditional Moroccan decor enhances the riad’s ambiance, creating an authentic and inviting atmosphere.
Step into the riad’s courtyard, a sanctuary of relaxation featuring a charming restaurant where you can savor traditional Moroccan cuisine. In the center, a refreshing pool invites you to cool off from the Marrakech sun, providing a serene oasis amid the city’s vibrant energy.
One of the highlights of your stay is the delightful breakfast served daily until 11 a.m. Indulge in a variety of treats including fluffy pancakes, eggs prepared to your liking, fresh yogurt, seasonal fruits, and more, all meticulously prepared to start your day on a high note.
Experience the essence of Moroccan hospitality at Riad l’Oiseau du Paradis, where modern comforts meet traditional charm, promising a memorable stay in Marrakech.
Riad Le Peroquet Bleu
Riad Le Perroquet Bleu is a charming accommodation located about a 15-minute walk from the bustling Jemaa El-Fnaa Square, nestled in a quieter part of Marrakech. This serene retreat consists of three interconnected riads, providing guests with an oasis of tranquility amidst the city's vibrant atmosphere.
The riad boasts a stunning traditional Moroccan design, complete with intricate tile work, lush courtyards, and beautifully decorated rooms. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay while still preserving the authentic Moroccan ambiance.
Guests can start their day with a delightful breakfast included in their stay, featuring a variety of local and international dishes. For those who wish to indulge in more culinary delights, the riad offers an exquisite menu for lunch and dinner, allowing guests to savor traditional Moroccan cuisine without having to venture far.
Riad Le Perroquet Bleu is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a peaceful and luxurious experience in Marrakech, with its perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm.
Ourika
During our journey through Morocco, we decided to take a break from the bustling streets of Marrakech after a few days and headed to the serene Ourika Valley for a weekend, where we attended a wedding. The Ourika Valley is a breathtaking location nestled in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, just an hour’s drive from Marrakech. It offers a refreshing escape from the city’s heat and a glimpse into the peaceful beauty of the Moroccan countryside.
For our stay, we chose Kasbah Bab Ourika, and it was, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful accommodations we encountered during our travels. The Kasbah is perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the majestic Atlas Mountains and lush green valley below. Our room boasted floor-to-ceiling windows with an incredible mountain view, and some rooms even come with private pools, offering a luxurious and tranquil retreat.
The Kasbah has a lovely restaurant where we enjoyed breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The large communal pool is perfect for relaxing and cooling off, while taking in the stunning scenery. For those seeking more adventure, the hotel arranges various activities, such as scenic hikes through the valley, camel rides, and cooking workshops that introduce guests to the vibrant flavors of Moroccan cuisine.
One of the highlights of our stay was the spa at the Kasbah, where we indulged in massages and traditional Moroccan treatments. The calm atmosphere and expert therapists made it an incredibly relaxing experience, rounding off our unforgettable weekend in the Ourika Valley.
Aït-Ben-Haddou
Located in the heart of Ait Ben-Haddou, just a scenic 3-hour drive from Marrakech, Paradise of Silence offers a tranquil retreat amidst one of Morocco’s most iconic and ancient settings. Ait Ben-Haddou is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning ksar, a traditional pre-Saharan habitat, and the riad perfectly complements the area's historical charm with its authentic Moroccan decor and serene atmosphere.
The riad boasts beautifully appointed rooms, each designed in traditional Moroccan style, featuring vibrant textiles, carved woodwork, and locally sourced materials, all while offering modern comforts. Guests are invited to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the property, whether by lounging in the riad’s refreshing pool or relaxing in the shaded courtyard surrounded by lush greenery.
Dining at Paradise of Silence is a treat for the senses, as the riad's restaurant serves up a variety of delicious, authentic Moroccan dishes, including tagines, couscous, and freshly baked bread, all made from local ingredients. The warm hospitality from the friendly and attentive staff adds to the riad’s charm, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere and personalized service.
Aside from exploring the historic ksar, guests can take advantage of guided tours around Ait Ben-Haddou and nearby attractions such as the Ouarzazate film studios or the desert landscapes of the Sahara. Whether you're venturing into the surrounding mountains or simply relaxing by the pool with panoramic views of the desert landscape, Paradise of Silence offers an unforgettable stay in this captivating region of Morocco.
Ouarzazate
The Oscar Hotel is ideally located right next to the iconic Atlas Studios, making it a prime spot for film enthusiasts and travelers looking to immerse themselves in the cinematic history of Ouarzazate. With its distinct movie-themed decor, the hotel brings the world of film to life, offering guests a one-of-a-kind stay infused with a touch of Hollywood magic.
The hotel is well-equipped to provide comfort and relaxation amidst the desert landscape, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region.
One of the hotel's standout features is its spacious swimming pool, which offers a refreshing escape from the heat of the desert. After a day of sightseeing or adventure, guests can relax poolside or take a dip to cool off. Each room at the Oscar Hotel is air-conditioned, ensuring guests enjoy a comfortable stay, no matter the temperature outside. The rooms are also designed with modern amenities and a nod to the cinematic theme, creating an atmosphere that's both stylish and comfortable.
For those looking to venture beyond the hotel, the Oscar Hotel offers a variety of exciting day trips and activities that allow guests to experience the stunning Moroccan landscape firsthand. Adventurous guests can book thrilling excursions such as quad biking through the desert or camel rides, providing a true taste of Morocco’s rugged beauty. These excursions are a fantastic way to explore the local area, and the hotel's staff is happy to help guests plan and customize their adventures.
When it comes to dining, the Oscar Hotel delivers with a range of options to suit all tastes. The Nomad Diner, a standout feature of the hotel, offers an authentic Moroccan culinary experience, with traditional BBQ meals served in a cozy and atmospheric setting. For those who prefer a more international menu, the hotel's restaurant serves a diverse array of dishes, including European favorites like pizza and pasta, as well as traditional Moroccan specialties like tagine and couscous. Whether you're enjoying a casual breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a gourmet dinner, the hotel’s restaurant offers flavorful meals made from fresh local ingredients.
Overall, the Oscar Hotel blends the allure of cinema with the comfort of modern accommodations, making it a unique and enjoyable place to stay. With its prime location near the Atlas Studios, excellent amenities, and a variety of activities and dining options, it’s the perfect choice for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in the heart of Morocco. Whether you’re a film buff, an adventurer, or just looking for a tranquil retreat, the Oscar Hotel offers an unforgettable experience in Ouarzazate.
Tinghir
Auberge Le Festival was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places we stayed during our trip. The experience began with a scenic 3-hour drive from our previous hotel, filled with numerous stops to take in breathtaking mountain views. The riad itself is visible from the road, resembling a stunning southern villa even from a distance.
Auberge Le Festival offers a variety of rooms and a small plunge pool. We stayed in a unique room carved into a piece of rock. The room was well-equipped, including the bathroom, although it did get a bit warm without air conditioning.
Each morning, we enjoyed a hearty breakfast, and the evening meals were plentiful and delicious. The menu included a vegetable soup, a salad, a main course with a choice between chicken tajine or moussaka, and a dessert. The moussaka was truly one of the best dishes we had during our entire trip.
As you can tell, Auberge Le Festival is a must-visit on your trip through Morocco!
Merzouga
When booking accommodation in Merzouga through platforms like Booking.com, especially for the various 'Desert Camps' offering glamping tents or bubble tents, it's essential to pay close attention to the details.
Firstly, ensure you filter your search for accommodations that offer air conditioning and confirm its availability before finalizing your reservation. Often, you may come across rates as low as €8 per night for what seems like a beautiful location. However, reading the fine print reveals additional charges upon arrival, sometimes exceeding €70 or more.
We stayed at Sunrise Desert Camp in a bubble tent. We arranged to meet someone from the accommodation at a specific point and followed their vehicle to a parking area just before the desert. From there, we were transported to the camp by their vehicles. The domain and the bubble tents were stunningly located and beautifully furnished, with an outdoor bed perfect for stargazing. The stay included dinner and live music around a campfire in the evening.
Despite the beautiful location and accommodations, we wouldn't necessarily recommend this place if you're visiting during the summer. The bubble tent had a portable cooler that mostly blew warm air, making it unbearably hot inside for sleeping. We attempted to sleep outside but found it uncomfortable due to the numerous flies. After a cold shower and using a wet towel in bed, we managed to sleep with the outside door open. However, a few hours later, the electricity went out, leaving us with no cooling at all. It was approximately 50 degrees Celsius in the bubble, making it incredibly uncomfortable.
Two years ago, friends of ours stayed in the Sahara at the Aiour Luxury Camp. They slept in beautifully decorated tents, each equipped with air conditioning, including the dining tent. This location is highly recommended for a stay in Merzouga, especially during the hot summer months.
By taking these precautions and choosing the right accommodation, you can ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable experience in the stunning desert of Merzouga.
Meknès
Riad Yacout
During our visit to Meknès, we spent our first night at the charming Riad Yacout, located just a five-minute walk from the bustling main square in the old city. The riad offers an excellent value for money, with rooms priced at around €35 per person per night, including breakfast.
Upon arrival, you can conveniently park your car in a secure parking area located in the square right in front of the riad. The cost is quite reasonable at 20 Dirhams (approximately €2) for 24 hours.
Riad Yacout is a beautifully restored traditional Moroccan house, featuring stunning architecture and intricate tile work that reflects the rich history of the region. The staff at the riad are incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring that your stay is comfortable and enjoyable.
One of the highlights of Riad Yacout is its rooftop terrace, which boasts a small but inviting swimming pool. This is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the city, offering a peaceful retreat with a view over the medina.
In addition to its comfortable accommodations, the riad also features an on-site restaurant. In the evening, you can enjoy a delicious dinner, with a menu that includes both traditional Moroccan dishes and international cuisine. The dining experience is enhanced by the cozy atmosphere of the riad, making it an ideal place to relax and savor your meal.
Overall, Riad Yacout provides a wonderful blend of traditional Moroccan charm and modern comfort, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the beauty and culture of Meknès. Whether you are here to explore the historic sites or simply to enjoy the ambiance of the old city, Riad Yacout is sure to enhance your stay in this captivating part of Morocco.
A Luxurious Stay at Chateau Roslane in Meknès
For our final night in Meknès, we indulged in the luxurious surroundings of Chateau Roslane. This exquisite hotel is nestled within a sprawling vineyard estate, which produces an impressive 40 million bottles of wine each year. The chateau offers a multitude of high-end amenities, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to experience the finer things in life.
Chateau Roslane is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience. The hotel features a tennis court for those who enjoy a bit of sport, and a stunning swimming pool that overlooks the picturesque vineyards, offering a serene and beautiful setting to relax and unwind. The spa is equipped with a traditional hammam, providing a perfect way to pamper yourself after a day of sightseeing.
The on-site restaurant at Chateau Roslane is a culinary delight. The food is of exceptional quality, with a menu that showcases both local and international flavors. For a room at this opulent hotel, you can expect to pay around €270 per night. Our dining experience, which included tapas, a starter, a main course, and approximately four glasses of wine, cost around €80 per person. The meals were worth every penny, providing an exquisite end to each day.
One of the unique features of staying at Chateau Roslane is the opportunity to explore its impressive wine production facilities. Guests can request a free tour of the wine cellars, which includes a brief overview of the production installations, a visit to the cellars themselves, and a chance to take in the breathtaking views of the vineyards. For those who wish to delve deeper into the world of wine, the chateau offers a wine tasting experience for €45 per person. This includes a guided tasting session where you can sample some of the estate’s finest wines.
Our stay at Chateau Roslane was the perfect conclusion to our journey through Morocco. The combination of luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and the unique opportunity to explore a world-class vineyard made it an unforgettable experience. If you are looking to end your trip to Meknès on a high note, Chateau Roslane is an unparalleled choice, offering a blend of elegance, relaxation, and gourmet indulgence.
