Riad Fawakay
Marrakech, Morocco
Small but exquisitely-formed home near the Djemaa el Fna, available as a serviced villa for weekends or longer stays (sleeps 2-6)
If you’ve never thought about buying a place in Marrakech,
Riad Fawakay is the one that’s going to inspire you to do so,
with its blossom-strewn courtyard, plunge pool, elegant salon and
flower-filled roof terrace under a Berber tent.
At once cosy and spacious, this is one of the most feel-at-home
riads we’ve come across: it’s a traditional,
300-year-old townhouse that’s been brought bang up to date
without a trace of the Marrakchi-chi style that expats in Morocco
are sometimes prey to. The Fawakay is rented out as a whole to
families or groups of friends; there are two double
bedrooms and one twin. But if you’re a couple
wanting privacy, you won’t rattle around (or break the bank)
if you book the place to yourselves. The staff, including a
cook/housekeeper (breakfasts are delicious – they come with
an extra everything) and an English-speaking Mr Fixit, are there
when you want them, and disappear discreetly when you don't.
Reviewed by Viv Monahan
Last updated 15 December 2011
Highs
- Having the whole riad to yourselves for less than the price of a double room at one of Marrakech's posher hotels
- The removable transparent courtyard roof keeps the rain out during winter months, though air-con and heating make the riad comfortable all year
- Lovely design details - great craftsmanship and flamboyant artwork courtesy of the former English owners
- Ultra-sexy bedrooms with heaps of throws, blankets and cushions
- A roof garden that’s perfect for sunning, plus a small plunge pool in the courtyard
Lows
- The riad is about to change hands and we have yet to meet the new owners, but we're assured little will change
- Because Rashida is an excellent home cook rather than a professional, the range of dishes on offer is limited
- The location down the narrow alleyways of the medina requires a good sense of direction, especially at night
- A taxi isn’t going to get you to your door: you'll be met at the nearest drop-off point five minutes away by a porter with a barrow
- You have your own door key when the staff are off-duty. There’s an initial sense of trepidation, but you quickly get to like the feeling of independence
- Hot water takes a while to reach the bathrooms, but it will get there in the end
