The colourful Moroccan city of Marrakech is a treasure trove of minarets, mosques, palaces and fascinating souks and markets. The best way to experience it is to base yourself at a Riad and venture out into the narrow streets and alleyways of the city.
Boutique hotel Riad Star is tucked away in the heart of the Marrakesh old medina. As cars are not allowed in this part of the city, taxis drop guests at the old town entrance where they are met by a hotel representative who escorts them to the Riad (about 20 minutes’ walk). The medina is about 30 minutes’ drive from Marrakech International airport which has direct flights from the UK with British Airways, Ryanair, Easy Jet and Tui from Gatwick.
Once inside the Riad, we discover a surprising hotel which has a fascinating history. Once part of the palace that now houses The Marrakech Museum it has been restored by English owners. It was once home to Jazz Age icon Josephine Baker who was here in the 1940s and has some of her costumes on display. There are 13 fabulous rooms each individually decorated, and a lovely roof terrace from where to sip mint tea and enjoy views over the city.
The Hotel has its own cookery school where local chefs share their love of traditional Moroccan dishes and organic ingredients. Or book a session at the Hamman after a long day’s sightseeing. The Riad Star is perfectly located for walking around the old town. The Museum of Marrakech is a few minutes’ away and the Main Square and souks all nearby.
riadstar.com
