A fashionable hotel in Marrakech, boasting a captivating dive pool, ranks among the most attractive in the city's landscape
Nestled in the heart of Marrakech, a city known for its bustling energy and vibrant culture, lies a hidden gem that offers a peaceful and luxurious escape - IZZA. Located at 46 Driba Laarida, Sidi Ahmed Soussi, IZZA encourages visitors to take their time and make their stay last as long as possible.
Unlike some tourist attractions that aim to transport visitors to another world, IZZA offers a space to breathe and experience the city on one's terms. The in-house restaurant provides an elevated menu that is mouthwatering, with options ranging from eggs Benedict and Moroccan crushed avocado to seasonal fruit and freshly squeezed orange juice.
If you're seeking a more traditional experience, Marrakech is home to several riads that strike a balance between traditional Moroccan craftsmanship and modern sensibility. Among them are Riad Matham, El Fenn, and Riad Hikaya.
Riad Matham uniquely preserves 16th-century Moroccan architectural heritage with its traditional inward-facing design, central courtyard adorned with palm and bougainvillea trees, and handcrafted vintage furniture. Each of its seven rooms showcases raw materials like earthy tadelakt plaster, carved stucco, stained glass windows, and authentic wood doors, combined with a serene, elegant simplicity suited for modern comfort.
El Fenn is more than just a hotel; it's a boutique riad that represents Moroccan craftsmanship fused with contemporary design. It features bold colors, eclectic artworks, handcrafted tiles, velvet textiles, and local antique treasures. Each suite is individually curated for a sensorial experience that marries tradition and modern luxury. The rooftop terrace and cocktail bar provide a modern social ambiance set within a traditional medina house.
Riad Hikaya, located within the royal Kasbah, exemplifies quiet luxury with a devotion to traditional artisan methods revived after a painstaking five-year restoration. The design maintains traditional Moroccan stone, tile work, and craftsmanship, while offering modern comforts such as a year-round heated pool, hammam, and rooftop jacuzzi. Its intimate scale and bespoke service evoke a seamless blend of historical authenticity and contemporary refinement.
These riads are ideal for travelers seeking genuine Moroccan aesthetic details—like tadelakt plaster, carved stucco, and traditional woodwork—enhanced with modern amenities and thoughtfully curated interiors that avoid outdated décor or excess kitsch.
IZZA, too, emphasizes design-driven luxury with modern minimalism set in traditional Medina architecture, though less detail was available.
In summary, Riad Matham, El Fenn, and Riad Hikaya stand out for their carefully balanced approach—celebrating Moroccan craftsmanship through authentic materials and artisan heritage while adapting their spaces for contemporary comfort, style, and sensibility. This combination appeals to guests wanting both cultural richness and refined modern hospitality.
While the energy in Marrakech is magnetic but relentless, these riads serve as the perfect antidote, offering a tranquil haven amidst the city's vibrant chaos. The calls to prayer echo through the city, but within these riads, you'll find a sense of peace and luxury that will make your stay in Marrakech truly unforgettable.
At Riad Matham, travelers can immerse themselves in 16th-century Moroccan architecture while enjoying contemporary comfort, creating a unique blend of tradition and modern lifestyle.
In contrast, IZZA, while embodying design-driven luxury within traditional Medina architecture, also welcomes visitors with a home-and-garden ambiance, making it an enchanting choice for a serene escape during en-vols in Marrakech.
