A Riad is a must for an authentic historic stay while in Morocco. In addition to the grand architecture, the hospitality, personal touches and food received at a riad outshines what is experienced at most hotels.
What is a Riad?
Deriving from the Arab word ‘ryad’, meaning ‘garden’, Morocco’s riads are traditional houses built around an inner courtyard or garden. As Riads were once the homes of the rich, they ooze opulence and splendour.
Most riads have undergone conversion and operate as boutique hotels, bed & breakfasts or guesthouses. A riad generally has two or more levels built around a central garden, with upper balconies overlooking the lower floor. They have numerous rooms, with guests often staying in rooms located along the courtyard’s interior.
Set the scene
Riads are known for exquisite displays of intricate Moorish architecture, of which Riad Al Makan is a shining example. The establishment consists of three properties which, though down one of Fez’s many alleyways and unassuming from the outside, display inside grandeur and the intricate mosaic tilework for which Morocco is known.
Riad Al Makan is a 3* family-owned establishment offering 17 air-conditioned rooms and free Wi-Fi.
Location
After the sensory overload of the ancient medina, Riad Al Makan is the tranquil retreat that is needed. The property is conveniently located in the Fes El Bali district, a few minutes walk from major tourist hotspots such as Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate), the Medina of Fez and 20km from Fès-Saïss airport.
Riad Al Makan is close enough to see the main highlights of the fascinating but hectic city on foot, yet still tucked away from the hustle and bustle.
What can we expect from the rooms?
Riad Al Makan spreads over three buildings (two of which are adjoining) and offers 17 individually decorated rooms. I stayed in the standard double annexe, which was spacious and comfortable and provided a TV, minifridge, safe, and bottled water.
The room’s window provided a view of the alleyway. Most riads are in the traditional medinas where buildings are connected, and it’s rare to have much more than a small exterior window, so views were not expected. For inner courtyard views, stay in the main building.
The ensuite shower room provided towels and soap and shampoo in packets. The room had coffee/tea-making facilities, AC/heater and satellite TV.
Facilities etc
The serene central courtyard is the star of Riad Al Makan, serving as a lounge set around a trickling fountain donned with colourful tile work, intricate arches and the adjoining courtyard flanked by two tall trees. The main areas are open from the top and the house’s natural light source. The lounge is an ideal chill-out area that is beautifully but naturally decorated, with lavish cushioned seating areas set from the main floor.
The rooftop terrace offers eye-catching views overlooking the medina and surrounding hills.
Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, business centre, express check-in, and express check-out, airport shuttle (€20 by day and more at night), cooking classes, spa, AC and free WiFi, nearby parking at an extra charge and a tour service.
How about food and drink?
The restaurant serves Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine. As expected, food in riads is slightly more expensive than in the medina.
Breakfast is served in the restaurant and included in the price of the stay. It consisted of Moroccan pancakes, fresh orange juice, tea and coffee and eggs made to order.
Disappointingly there were hardly vegetarian or pescetarian options, and though the menu stated they had fish on Saturdays, there was not. It appears this was a one-off due to a large booking. The food I did have was tasty and plentiful.
What about the service
By far, the most impressive feature at Riad al Makan is the hospitality received from the team. From being picked up at the airport to being greeted with Moroccan mint tea upon arrival, I was made to feel welcomed, comfortable and looked after.
The staff were attentive and always happy to help with whatever I needed, and they even provided a breakfast takeaway when I had an early tour. They do more than their job here. As told by Youseff, he loves what he does and therefore doesn’t view it as work.
What type of person stays here?
Those who would like a genuine Moroccan experience.
As a solo female traveller, I rate Riad Al Makan very highly. Its location is close to the medina and other discoveries in Fez, making it easy to navigate on foot.
Is it worth it?
I couldn’t believe the price. I went off-season and paid €134 on a bed and breakfast basis for three nights plus €2.50 per night city tax.
It was my first time in Morocco, and I loved staying at this beautiful riad. The architecture made me feel like I was staying in a palace, and breakfast was more than substantial. More importantly, though, Riad Al Makan has an admirable intimate atmosphere and personalized service that felt like I was staying at the home of friends or family. Thank you to you all, especially Youseff, Soukaina, Karim and Anas.
Overall, I highly recommend Riad Al Makan to anyone looking for a truly authentic Moroccan experience.
Address: 8 Derb el Guebbas Douh, Fes 30000, Morocco
Telephone: +212 664-978898
Wi-Fi: Free and fast
Price: variable
