Riad Elegancia in Marrakech is the latest addition to the Cenizaro Hotels & Resorts group – the 10th hotel to open in the portfolio – and sister property to La Maison Arabe in Marrakech, Morocco’s first boutique riad hotel which opened in 1998…
Behind Marrakech’s towering pink walls, hidden in one of the Medina’s unsuspecting alleys close to the Bab Doukkala mosque and vibrant Jemaa el-Fna square, you will find Riad Elegancia. Following a major refurbishment in 2020, this charming 11-key truly boutique property offers one of the most authentic riad experiences in the city, whilst providing all the modern luxury touches of a five-star, boutique hotel.
Set over three levels and built around two patios, the building remains loyal to its Arab-Andalusian architectural roots. The riad’s interiors pay homage to true Moroccan craftsmanship, with traditional features running throughout the property including a magnificent chandelier hanging in the atrium.
Image credit: Riad Elegancia
Each one of the 11 en-suite rooms features a hand-carved or painted cedarwood ceiling, with nickel silver and chiselled copper features, smooth and shiny tadelakt (plaster), and colourful zelliges (Moroccan tiles) in geometric patterns.
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- Image credit: Riad Elegancia
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- Image credit: Riad Elegancia
Painted with Morocco’s distinctive colour palette of Majorelle blue, yellow, pink and green, Riad Elegancia’s rooftop is a destination in itself. Up here you’ll find a sophisticated space to relax and soak up the panoramic views of the ancient Medina.
Image credit: Riad Elegancia
The rooftop pool is heated during winter months for guests’ comfort. There’s also a sundeck, a Jacuzzi and a restaurant and bar area, both great spots from which to enjoy the city’s unrivalled sunsets over a cocktail and home-cooked food.
Dining at Riad Elegancia is an important part of the guest experience, with breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner served throughout the day. Meals are prepared by the riad’s resident female “Tabakha” (Moroccan chef) who combines Moroccan-inspired flavours with a hint of Mediterranean influences. Cooking classes are also available to guests wishing to bring a taste of the exotic back home.
Head down to the basement level to find the riad’s beautiful “Espace Raha” Oriental Hamman & Spa, a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to beauty and wellbeing, and a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Image credit: Riad Elegancia
Features include a traditional Moroccan hammam made from marble, one of the few riads in the city to offer this experience on site, plus two treatment rooms including one for couples, where therapists use natural, locally-sourced products. There’s also a relaxation area, a fitness room with the latest cardio and weight training equipment, and mats for rooftop Yoga.
Despite the hotel being designed to reflect the traditional architecture and interiors that are typically found and celebrated in the city, the hotel is equipped for tomorrow’s on-demand modern traveller. High-speed Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and underfloor heating, for example, are additional and convenient touches designed to enhance the guest experience at Riad Elegancia, making this a great home away from home whatever the season or reason for travel.
Riad Elegancia’s 24-hour concierge service delivers the same exceptional standards that guests can expect from all Cenizaro Hotels & Resorts and The Residence by Cenizaro properties across the world. From arranging airport transfers and Covid-19 PCR tests, to coordinating desert excursions and hot air balloon rides, the team is dedicated to making your stay in Marrakech as comfortable and hassle-free as possible.
Guests of Riad Elegancia are also welcome to use the facilities at La Maison Arabe, only a short walk away, including access to the hotel’s exclusive country club and pool, set amongst olive groves just outside the city in the Palmeraie suburb.
Main image credit: Cenizaro Hotels & Resorts
