Riad Dar Zelda, Marrakech, Marocco

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Marrakech, located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, is a bustling city of about 1 million inhabitants in Morocco. It is known for its Old Town, the Medina, which is enclosed by a 12-kilometer wall and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For accommodation, the Old Town offers hundreds of riads. A riad is a traditional Moroccan villa featuring 5 to 10 rooms arranged around a central courtyard, which often contains a garden or potted plants. Many courtyards also include pools or large fountains. For sunbathing and relaxation, a spacious rooftop terrace is typically available, providing an ideal spot to enjoy mint tea and take in the evening views of the Medina. Riads have a rich history in Morocco, with their small exterior windows and inward-facing designs helping to maintain a comfortable, constant temperature inside. While they may appear humble from the outside, their true character is revealed within.



Each riad has its unique charm. Some have preserved their historical character, while others feature a more modern aesthetic, ranging from vibrant colors to subtle natural tones. With such variety, there’s a perfect place for everyone, though finding your favourite can take some time. I chose Dar Zelda for my first stay because its remarkable design beautifully blends historical character with modern conveniences. Additionally, it has an ideal location close to the Marrakech Museum, Madrasa Ben Youssef, and the souks, yet it’s on a quieter street.

Riad Dar Zelda

Dar Zelda is a traditional 19th-century wealthy merchant's house, designed in the New Moroccan Style, featuring exquisite materials such as artisan-crafted wood, forged iron, and silks. I was truly inspired by the elegant yet rustic atmosphere created by the design of the various spaces. All the fixtures were robust and generous in size. Stepping into this riad felt like discovering an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city.



From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by the friendliest staff. Their hospitality was exemplary; every need was anticipated and met with genuine kindness, making our stay exceptionally pleasant. Beforehand, they had arranged a transfer from the airport for us and our luggage through the maze of the Old Town. Since taxis cannot drive deep into the Medina, a trusted man transported our luggage with a trolley from the drop-off point to the riad and guided us there. This thoughtful service was greatly appreciated!

Throughout our stay, the staff provided helpful directions and sightseeing suggestions. The app Maps.me proved to be the best way to navigate the Medina, making it easy to immerse ourselves in the rich culture and history of Marrakech.



My Africaine Superior Room

My Superior Room (25 m²) was located on the second floor and featured an African-inspired design. The neutral beige color scheme, accented with red textiles, natural wood, and dark gray floors, created a unique yet relaxing ambiance. I especially appreciated the intricate forged iron details on the windows and the balcony railing. The balcony overlooked the inner courtyard, adding to the room’s authentic charm. The king-size bed was incredibly comfortable, with luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets that ensured a restful sleep each night — a perfect way to end each day.




The bathroom featured a shower, dark brown tiles, and lovely toiletries. Although there were no coffee or tea-making facilities in the room, the clients could request Maroccan mint tea any time from the staff. All my expectations were met in this home-like retreat filled with Moroccan ambiance. The cleanliness of the room also deserves special mention — it was spotless and created a comfortable, hygienic environment that allowed us to relax worry-free.


The Amenities in Dar Zelda

The inner courtyard of this riad is an open and stylish yet relatively small space, featuring a heated pool. To accommodate guests, additional dining space was provided indoors. The courtyard perfectly embodied the essence of Marrakech and quickly became my favourite part of the riad. Additionally, the rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi offered ample space for relaxation, boasting stunning views over the Medina's rooftops.




Breakfast was served in the inner courtyard, featuring freshly made bread and cakes, traditional Moroccan msemen, various jams, yogurt, and fresh fruit. Each dish was prepared with fresh ingredients, allowing us to fully experience the diverse flavors of Moroccan breakfast cuisine. We especially loved the msemen!


One evening we decided to have a three-course dinner at the riad. We had no idea what the menu would include, but we were happy with anything that the chefs wanted to prepare. First, we got some traditional delicious salty pastries. The generous main course included cuscus with chicken, beef, lamb, and various vegetables. The dessert was a chocolate moussé. We both felt that the food was excellently prepared and was well worth the price.



In Conclusion

The property is truly remarkable and offers excellent value for money. The only amenity I found lacking was a hammam. However, the staff were wonderful, making me feel comfortable, well-attended to, and pampered throughout my stay! The riad exuded charm and elegance, with intricate details and a serene ambiance. I absolutely fell in love with its unique blend of traditional and modern décor. It was an unforgettable experience, and I am truly grateful to all the staff.


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