There’s nothing like a high-end, tranquil retreat to soothe the senses when in Marrakech - especially after a day navigating the madness of the medina. Riad Sakkan is right where you need it to be, tucked away in the hip Mouassine district, which has the best crafts, concept-stores, clothing and antiques. The city's finest eateries, bars and must-sees are an easy stroll away.
Style-appreciators will love the vibe here. It comes with all the charm of a 250-year-old riad: impressive ornamental doorways, gorgeous tiling that’ll fill your photostream, beautiful open courtyards. Add to that some very cool, modern decor. All 12 rooms are uniquely styled. Some come in dark and moody tones teamed with elegant copper bathtubs, others have a lighter colour palette but are just as pleasing, with bold art on the walls and smart marble bathrooms.
Beyond the rooms, you’ll have no trouble finding a spot to chill in. Relax on as-chic-as-they-come loungers by the atmospheric pool (the Sakkan-branded SPF is a nice touch), surrounded by stunning planters with vines hanging from high above. Or head up to the relaxing rooftop where you can enjoy delicious Euro-Moroccan food accompanied by the riad's own classy playlists (think bossa nova, soul or soft jazz). Top it off with far-reaching views of the city and mountains, sundowner in hand. Perfection.
Highs
- Super-chic decor; European city style in a serene riad setting
- Beautiful, uniquely designed rooms where the beds are next-level comfy
- An excellent location close to some of Marrakech’s best shops, restaurants and sights and on the main street of Mouassine
- We loved the rooftop restaurant with its relaxing fireplace, city views and superb food
- The service provided by friendly hotel staff is impeccable
Lows
- You’re based in the medina so there may be occasional noise (room doors are sound insulated), but we found it to be very peaceful
- The quiet, relaxed vibe isn't ideal for little ones, although small families are welcome
- The pool area is a bit dark - use the rooftop terrace for sunbathing
Best time to go
During spring and autumn, skies are blue and temperatures are perfect for exploring. Autumn is an especially nice time if you’re planning a trip to the Atlas peaks. In summer, temperatures soar to a sweltering 37°C. Winters are fairly mild during the day (18°C) and evenings are chilly but it's cosy by the fire.
Our top tips
Visit the Anima Gardens, designed by artist Andre Heller and of a similar ilk to Le Jardin Majorelle, but without the crowds. It lies just outside the city and features a brilliant mix of traditional and avant-garde sculptures hidden within a botanical paradise.
- Boutique Riad
- 12 rooms
- Restaurant and bar
- All ages welcome
- Open all year
- Heated Pool
- Spa Treatments
- Beach Nearby
- Pet Friendly
- Disabled Access
- Car not necessary
- Parking
- Restaurants Nearby
- WiFi
- Air Conditioning
- Guest Lounge
- Terrace
- Garden
- Gym
- Laundry service
Rooms
There are 12 rooms of varying sizes, each one individually styled. Expect character-galore, elegance, romance. A bold Mick Jagger print hangs on a plaster toned wall. We love the attention to detail: the curious art pieces; the gorgeous Botanika skincare products; the vat of bath salts by the tub; the statement photographs; the fabrics on the chaise longues and armchairs. Whichever room you choose, you can expect views of the pool or the lush courtyard gardens.
We stayed in a beautiful Suite which had fabulous marble-esque walls in vivid yellow, leather floors, a gleaming in-room silver bathtub and a yellow tiled ensuite. The bed was comfy and the linens were soft to the touch - we slept like babies.
For maximum splurge, opt for the Master Suite. We're talking in-room copper tub, impressive four-poster and fireplace. For those travelling as a three, some Luxury rooms can come with an extra bed or cot.
The bathrooms are a treat too. All come with a walk-in rainfall shower and luxurious marble or granite fixtures. Sensual metal bathtubs glimmer in the suites.
Features include:
- Air conditioning
- Bathrobes
- Hairdryer
- Safe box
- Toiletries
- WiFi
Eating
You’ll find the oh-so-chilled hotel bar and restaurant on the rooftop. The medina views from here are joyous. Look a little further and you’ll spot the Atlas Mountains - a pretty special accompaniment to very tasty food. At breakfast, expect the usual continental greats: fresh pancakes, homemade granola and eggs made to order. I had fresh tomatoes alongside a dish of merguez sausages which was delicious.
Lunch and dinner menus change with the seasons but generally feature classic European and Moroccan dishes. Though the Moroccan options sounded divine, we chose oysters and tuna tartare with orange and grapefruit to start, then both opted for salmon with ratatouille as a main. For dessert, we had Crepe Suzette and a panna cotta. Veggies and vegans can be catered for, though the menu was quite fish heavy when we stayed; let them know of any dietary requirements ahead of your stay. After dinner, we sipped a cocktail (the margaritas were superb) as we listened to evening prayers while the sun set over the city.
You can’t not explore Marrakech’s impressive dining scene, of course. There are countless options within walking distance. Hotel staff will be more than happy to make some recommendations.
Features include:
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Restaurants nearby
- Room service
Activities
- Take a dip in the heated open-air pool set in a tranquil, glimmering, oasis-like courtyard
- Book yourself a treatment at the swanky hammam spa across the road. Hotel staff can arrange this for you
- Don your haggling hat and venture into the souks. Discover Berber rugs, intricate glassware, handmade leather slippers and jewellery. Souk Semmaine is closest (8-minute walk). Hotel staff will gladly provide you with a handy guide to all the best bits
- Fashion lovers must head to The Musée YSL, and combine with a visit to Le Jardin Majorelle next door (an easy 30-minute walk or 12 mins taxi ride)
- While you’re there, pop over to Rue Majorelle to explore the gorgeous boutiques and cafes
- Tee off against a mountainous backdrop at one of 14 nearby golf courses (15-35 min drive). Hotel staff can arrange everything from transportation to booking to clubs
- One for the bucket list: book an excursion and trek the spectacular Atlas Mountains
Activities on site or nearby include:
- Golf
- Hammam
- Historical sites
- Museums / galleries
- Shopping / markets
- Trekking
Kids
Children of all ages are welcome. However, there aren’t any activities specifically aimed at kids, and there's a romantic and tranquil vibe here.
Best for:
Children (4-12 years), Teens (over 12)
Family friendly accommodation:
Families of 3 should opt for a Luxury Room, the only room type that will accommodate an extra bed or cot.
Kids Activities on site:
- Heated pool, open year round
Families Should Know:
The pool is unfenced
Distances:
- Airport: 15 minutes
- Hospital: 5 minutes
- Shops: 2 minutes
For more family-friendly places, see our Kids Collection
Location
Riad Sakkan is in the trendy Mouassine district of Marrakech’s famous medina. Excellent restaurants, cafes and historical sights are within easy strolling distance.
By Air:
Fly into Marrakech Menara, which is served by international and budget airlines.
From the Airport
The riad can arrange an airport transfer (15 mins). It's then an easy 5-minute walk to the hotel
By Car:
If you want to hire a car (for your travels outside Marrakech), see our car rental recommendations. Note you can't bring cars into the medina.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.
Airports:
- Marrakech Menara Airport 15.0 km RAK
Other:
- Beach 180.0 km
- Shops 0.1 km
- Restaurant 0.1 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 10 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape