Riad Antara Hotel

Morocco

Contemporary Parisian flair meets Saadian elegance in a comfortable hideaway in Morocco, where the surrounding hubbub of Marrakech gives way to an air of serenity.
In the very heart of Marrakech, and a stone’s throw from the bustling Medina, you’ll find a discreet oasis where comfort takes priority. The owners of Riad Antara have brought contemporary Parisian flair to this former Saadian residence, creating an artisanal feel across seven suites. Tiled floors, traditional arched windows and low pouffes are complemented by a modern palette of mint greens and beiges, bold red touches and an eclectic art collection. Bathrooms are clad in elegant, textured stone, while cosy window seats look out on to the solar-heated pool – sheltered from the sweltering sun by palms and banana trees – or the courtyard garden, complete with a fountain and lounge-worthy cushion.

From your hideaway, set out for the 16th-century El Badii-Ksibat Nhass Palace ruins, immerse yourself in Moroccan gastronomy at the Culinary Arts Museum and discover the intricate history of rug craftsmanship at the opulent Musée Boucharouite – a pit stop at Jemaa el-Fnaa square for flaky pastries and blood orange juice along the way, naturally. Then settle down for massages and hammam treatments at the spa or head over to the Riad Antara restaurant for hearty Moroccan favourites with a French twist. The ever-changing menu is led by local market produce, so expect nothing short of fresh, organic fare – don’t miss the tagine.

Suites from £249. 00 212 669 190 245, riadantara.com

Words by Angela Dukes

This review was taken from the July 2022 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.