No trip to Morocco would be complete without a stay in one of the country’s intimate riads - traditional Moroccan houses centred around an inner courtyard or garden. Hidden among the winding lanes of medinas, and often disguised behind unassuming doorways, these picturesque retreats embody the artistry of Moroccan design.
Once the homes of wealthy merchants and traders, many riads have been transformed into charming boutique hotels, ranging from the more modest to luxurious, where guests can relax by tranquil fountains and enjoy an oasis of calm away from the hustle and bustle of Morocco’s daily life.
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A haven of peace in the heart of Marrakech’s medina, this beautiful riad is housed in a former palace, with vast gardens dotted with shaded pergolas and the pool is a great spot to cool off after a day of sightseeing
Once a private residence of a royal sultan and now an iconic property boasting old word elegance and high levels of personalised service, this hotel is in the heart of Essaouira’s old medina.
A calming oasis set right in the heart of the medina, the Angsana Riad Si Said and the Angsana Riad Dar Zaouia offer an authentic riad experience, blending Moroccan craftsmanship and contemporary comfort.
Equally enchanting are Morocco’s kasbahs - fortified structures traditionally built from earth and clay, rising in warm tones against dramatic landscapes. Once home to local rulers and important families, kasbahs served both as residences and defensive strongholds, particularly in the southern regions near the Atlas Mountains.
Today, many have been carefully restored into guesthouses. With thick, rugged walls, earthy, organic décor, and warm hospitality, they offer an authentic and atmospheric stay - set against some of Morocco’s most striking scenery.
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Surrounded by the highest peaks in North Africa, this mountain retreat offers an unforgettable setting and exceptional hospitality.
Situated in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains and surrounded by magnificent gardens, this stunning traditional property offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Berber country.
Morocco’s desert camps offer the chance to immerse yourself in some of the country’s most vast and cinematic landscapes. Ranging from simple Berber-style tents to more luxurious setups - some even equipped with air-conditioning - they promise a stay that’s both unique and memorable.
Historically, desert camps were used by nomadic Amazigh (Berber) communities and travelling traders, who relied on temporary shelters during long overland journeys. Visitors can still experience elements of this traditional way of life, with music, storytelling and shared meals, that reflect centuries-old traditions of hospitality. Whether rustic or refined, a stay in a desert camp offers a sense of calm and stillness that feels worlds away from the pace of the modern world.
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Located in the dunes of Merzouga, this quaint camp offers the opportunity to enjoy traditional Moroccan hospitality and cuisine while camping under the stars.
A serene escape in the heart of the Agafay Desert, boasting a blend of comfort and Moroccan tradition combined with a wide variety of incredible experiences and breathtaking views.
It’s not only Morocco’s traditional architecture that captivates visitors – its distinctive style and alluring aesthetic elevate even the most conventional accommodation, transforming guesthouses, hotels and villas into something truly extraordinary.
From the grand opulence of palatial hotels, designed to evoke royal splendour, to the quiet calm of spaces inspired by the restorative nature of a traditional hammam, Morocco offers an exceptional range of unique accommodation - each one offering an authentic Moroccan experience and a deeply immersive escape.
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Set low in the valley, this authentic boutique hotel offers relaxation and rejuvenation in the most peaceful of settings. The restaurant has an emphasis on providing seasonal meals with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, some from the hotel’s own grounds.
4★+ Sofitel Agadir Thalassa Sea & Spa
Coupling sophisticated luxury with authentic local influences, this hotel epitomises style and wellness. The hotel prides itself on its refined spa experience, combining Moroccan ancestral rituals with thalassotherapy to create an oasis of serenity and well-being.
For more inspiration, see our Morocco Holidays pages.
Written by Siobhan Blest
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