Riad Enija

Live like a pasha in this ultra-stylish riad hidden amidst the souks of Marrakesh (12 rooms)

Imagine a young girl walking with a ginger cat and a large dog through an exotic leafy courtyard to see ‘Lion’, ‘Chameleon’ or ‘Prince’. It sounds like an extract from a Lewis Carroll book, but it's a real scene in Marrakech’s most fairytale hotel.

The girl is Enija, daughter of Swedish architect Bjorn Conerdings and Swiss designer Ursula Haldimann. The setting is a 200-year-old silk-traders’ palace (also named Enija), transformed by Bjorn and Ursula into an ultra-stylish maison d’hotes. Lion, Chameleon and Prince are 3 of the 12 spacious and meticulously decorated rooms and suites (fabrics and colours by Ursula, structure by Bjorn). The animals are the family pets. And the exotic courtyard? Well, you can see for yourself. There's more - tropical gardens, burbling fountains - around every corner. But the magic does not stop there: step outside and you are in the heart of Marrakech’s humming souks, colourful alleys and bustling bazaars.

Highs

• Exuberant, petal-perfect decor makes this perhaps the most stylish and exotic of the medina's many restored riads
• Ursula’s friendly yet discreet and excellent service maintains the style
• Two courtyards, tropical gardens and several terraces offer total tranquility after the buzzing souks
• The medina's prime markets and shops are on your doorstep

Lows

• Come after a mountain trek and you might feel out of place (or fashion)
• Don't expect 5* facilities - no bedroom phones, TV, radio, air-con or front desk (though staff are extremely obliging)
• Although all rooms have private bathrooms, not all are ensuite
• It’s not cheap
• Early booking is essential