"A visit to Marrakesh has been on the radar for a while. We wanted an authentic stay so opted for a small “Riad” rather than a hotel but with SO many to choose from, how do you make that choice. The reviews for the “Riad El Grably” on TA are consistently very good but would the description and pictures be anything like the real thing🤔
Having recently returned from a 5 night stay here, the answer is most definitely yes and it deserves this in depth review.
Communication with Francoise (owner) before arrival was excellent.
Our flight landed around 11am and following about a 20 min transfer from the airport, we (3 of us) were met in a nearby parking place by Hanane who insisted on carrying the girls bags on the short walk back to the Riad, “ first left, first right”.
It was like entering a Tardis. Behind that big brown door lies what instantly felt like a cool and calm Oasis, far from the hussle and bustle of just a few minutes ago.
Our bags were taken to our rooms while we sat drinking mint tea, listening to the comprehensive brief then a tour both given by Hanane. Our rooms on the first floor were spotless and very comfortable.
We chose to take our breakfast on the rooftop terrace. It was a sweet affair and more than enough to set you up for a busy day exploring. We took the opportunity to chat with Francoise on a couple of occasions, it would appear she had the same dilemma as we did when choosing which Riad, not to stay in but to buy! In our opinion her skills and vision have resulted in an ongoing renovation that not only oozes moorish charm but is uniquely stylish.
Eating out for us turned out to be a bit hit/miss, we did a bit of research before arriving and had a superb lunch at “Amal” (separate review) which is a non profit organisation that you can find out more about on google. Also just a stroll away from the Riad on the way to the main square is the Cafe/restaurant “La Porte Du Monde” (separate review). You can sit out at tables on the pavement here and people watch till your hearts content or enjoy the colourful roof top terrace, both of these places are recommended👍🏻 The main El Fna square is a totally different place during the day to what it is in the evenings when it is absolutely buzzing with local musicians and eateries. Sadly we picked one where all the meat tasted like lighter fuel and the bill turned out to be the most expensive “street food” we have ever had, hey ho🤷♂️
We dipped in the pool, relaxed in the hot tub and did treat ourselves to the small, very private Hammam where Laïla expertly washed and exfoliated us, followed by a 1 hour full body massage which was delivered with the right amount of pressure by 2 lady masseuse👍🏻
Trip wise, one evening we did the Camel ride/Quad bike/dinner & fire show with Starry Morocco tours, excellent VFM and well enjoyed (separate review.)
Taking a TukTuk tour from the nearby “Mellah Square” where there are several eateries) to the main “El Fna Square” plus the old and new Medina’s was great fun but not for the faint hearted🫣!
Sure, there will be other Riads, each unique in their own way, offering similar high standards but we all agree we were more than happy with our choice. All the staff are happy to be a part of this “family” and nothing was too much a problem.
We would be very happy to recommend, whether you are a culture vulture or just want a chill out in lovely surroundings.
“Merci Beaucoup” to all🤗"
