Hôtel or Riad?
Destination Morocco, destination Marrakech!
The question will be asked right away: Riad or hotel? Staying in a conventional hotel or in a riad? Hotels are numerous in Marrakech, the ochre city, and the whole range of establishments is offered , from standard to very luxurious, . You will find your happiness.
Staying in a riad in the medina of Marrakech means choosing intimacy, authenticity but also proximity and friendliness. It is often a “bed and breakfast” formula with or without catering. It’s a bit like another “home”.
It’s certainly a great way to get a better understanding of the country, its people, and to be more in the heart of things.
The riads are nestled in the medina and their geographical and strategic location is usually optimal, close to places of cultural interest. This is the best way to vibrate to the rhythm of a neighbourhood, to evolve among local people, to bathe in the social and human fabric.
But what is a Riad?
The term is somewhat overused today. At its base, the word riad means garden. It is even a representation of the earthly Paradise. Architecturally, a riad is a building of high height, without floors, which surrounds a garden divided into four sections, refreshed by a central fountain.
It may also form a part of a larger palace (Palais de la Bahia in Marrakech). For purists, only this original configuration deserves the name of riad.
The 18th and 19th centuries were the golden age of this type of housing. Sumptuous houses, Palais-Riads were born. They would compete in beauty, size, magnificence, architectural challenge and ornamentation. The Bahia Palace (district of Riad Zitoun Jdid),
the house of the Pasha (currently Dar El Bacha or Confluence Museum),
the Dar Si Said Palace (currently Weaving and Carpet Museum, district of Riad Zitoun Jdid), are famous examples.
By extension, we call “Riad” all the beautiful houses, articulated around a central patio open to the sky, according to the Arab-Andalusian model. The more appropriate term would be “Dar” which means home. Our Riad Dar Taliwint follows this structure; The sky is its most beautiful ceiling.
In both cases, it should be noted that these homes are facing inward. There are no ostentatious elements on the outside, the facades and entrances often remaining discreet. Only the doors, more or less decorated, let us see a little of the mystery.
The local materials, the ancestral know-how of the artisans, always very active, allow to reconstitute the luster of these old houses. The restorations carried out by the owners seek to find the original aspect and enhance these traditional decorative arts. Pisé, tadelakt, gebs,
carved and painted wood,
zelliges,
Iraki glass,
combine to amaze the visitors. But we will also appreciate more contemporary and design proposals.
A little “home away from home”
These words are often used in the guests’ comments after a stay, when travellers have felt as if they had been welcomed by friends or family. Naturally, these houses, often of medium size, keep a rather intimate character. The number of rooms is limited.
As old family homes, they have mostly kept their original configuration. A feeling of conviviality will be reinforced if you choose accommodations where the owners are present and welcome you in a great proximity. You will meet in the courtyard, on the floors’ walkway or on the terraces.
We are far from the anonymity of the hotel and you will benefit from the experience, knowledge and advice of the guests and staff. The neighborhood merchants will recognize you and greet you as neighbors every day.
Conviviality, sharing and smiles are essential.
No doubt, if you have enjoyed the house, the interaction with the hosts, you will feel like coming back and finding your habits.
Morocco and its people will have conquered you! You too, will join the club of fans and enthusiasts of this enchanting country and of Marrakech, this city with a thousand colors and sensations!
