RIAD O
CRITIQUE MY STAY RATING: 8.5/10
AVG. NIGHTLY RATE: $125
Riad O is an independently owned riad located in the heart of the bustling city of Marrakech, nestled right within the walls of the Medina. The small, boutique hotel features beautiful Moroccan architecture and design which is done in a modern, upscale way. Riad O offers a number of unique rooms that are on the smaller side but are well-appointed, comfortable, and peaceful spaces. It also boasts really lovely common areas as well as two rooftop spaces that offer views of the Medina.
LOCATION
9/10
Riad O is well positioned in the heart of the historic center of Marrakech. It’s located inside the Medina but on a small quiet street that really limits the noise that you hear from the outside. That’s part of why we really enjoyed the hotel’s location. While it is about a 25-30 minute walk from the hotel to some of the city’s major attractions like the Marjorelle Gardens and the Bahia Palace, the walks take you through parts of the Medina and the surrounding areas and are really pleasant. One thing to note is that cars cannot get to Riad O so you will have to exit about a 5 minute walk from the hotel. If you have luggage with you, there are folks in the street with carts that can assist you for a small fee.
AMENITIES
7.5/10
GYM
There is not a gym available at Riad O
SPA
There is technically no spa at the hotel but the property does have a massage room where they can arrange a massage for you as well as a hammam for use by guests.
POOL - 8/10
Riad O’s pool is on the small side but it is set within the peaceful property which often feels like an oasis. The beautifully decorated space around the pool provides a great setting for some relaxation and tranquility.
OTHER
The team at Riad O is extremely friendly and helpful and were always willing to assist with booking restaurants, activities, and the like. The hotel also has its own restaurant which serves food on one of two of its rooftop terraces that offer great views of the surrounding buildings in the Medina. The wifi was good but not amazing and in case you were wondering, the hotel is not pet-friendly .
ROOM
8/10
Despite being the smallest room available at just 15m2, Room Alaouite was a really adorably decorated space that was very comfortable. The room’s layout and decor created a soothing atmosphere and the queen sized bed was comfortable. The bathroom also featured modern Moroccan design and bathrobes were provided. The fact that the room didn’t have a window to the outside of the building was actually a good thing because natural light came in from the Riad’s courtyard and it made for a very quiet and peaceful sleeping environment at night.
BREAKFAST
9/10
Breakfast at Riad O was truly lovely. Each morning, breakfast is served on one of the hotel’s rooftops. In addition to a basket of fresh breads and pastries, there is fresh squeezed juice, fruit, yogurts, jams, and eggs that are made to order. The hotel makes various types of coffees and coffee drinks and has great Moroccan tea as well.
RESTAURANTS NEARBY
If you’re looking for good food in walking distance, here are some Eat My Critique approved option:
Riad O (inside the hotel) - Don’t sleep on Riad O’s own restaurant which serves up incredibly tasty Moroccan food.
If you are looking for good food that’s worth the drive, here are some options:
La Grande Table Marocaine (5 minute drive) - Located inside the prestigious Royal Mansur Hotel, the restaurant serves traditional Moroccan fare in what might be the most luxurious fine dining experience in Marrakech.
Nomad (6 minute drive)- This cool hotspot boasts a fantastic rooftop terrace that offers panoramic views of the bustling markets. Prepare to be delighted by their menu, which presents modern twists on traditional cuisine.
+61 (10 minute drive) - This popular spot blends Australian flavors with Moroccan and Mediterranean techniques and it has foodies written all over it.
To check out all of the Eat My Critique reviews from around the World, click here.
THINGS TO DO
Marrakech is a bustling, vibrant and culturally rich city with a mix of historical and modern attractions. Here are just some things you can do:
Medina (Walk outside the hotel) - Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the Medina (old town) and discover countless shops and traditional souks, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.
Jardin Majorelle (23 minute walk) - Explore the beautiful gardens designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle. The vibrant blue buildings and lush greenery make it a unique and photogenic place.
Bahia Palace (10 minute drive) - Wander through the beautiful gardens and elaborate rooms of Bahia Palace, a 19th-century palace with stunning architecture.
Saadian Tombs (10 minute drive) - Explore the Saadian Tombs, a burial ground for members of the Saadian dynasty. The tombs were rediscovered in 1917 and showcase intricate tilework and decoration.
Quad Bike Tour to Palm Oasis (30 minute drive) - Embark on an exciting quad bike and explore the Marrakech Palm Oasis and desert.
El Badi Palace (8 minute drive) - Explore the ruins of this once-grand palace, known for its vast courtyard and historical significance.
VERDICT
Riad O was one of the most charming hotels we have stayed at in a while and presents an excellent value for the price. From its excellent design and layout to the incredible staff that looks after the guests incredibly well, Riad O felt like a place that we could easily spend a month at. Maybe next time we will.