Style/character 7/10
Part luxury bolthole; part art gallery. Decoratively, the courtyards and
colonnades are kept simple – the focus is the riad’s collection of modern
art. Works include photographs of Morocco by Terence Donovan, a study by
Antony Gormley and a head-turning image from Pieter Hugo’s series The Hyena
and Other Men. There’s a modest hamman, and the best of the two pools is
heated and surrounded by a tangle of vines. The riad also offers painting
and photography courses.
Rooms 8/10
Each has its own work of art and is individually styled. Rooms have a seating
area, but those in the courtyard are smaller. If possible book one of the
enormous suites, with features ranging from a hot pink regency-style lounge,
to a gold-leaf fireplace or a private terrace with a glass-bottomed plunge
pool and a porthole to your room below.
Service 6/10
Did not quite meet the standards expected. Waiting staff, especially at
breakfast, seemed to have their minds elsewhere. A more pro-active approach
to maintenance would also be welcome: staff were aware that a couple of
minor fittings needed fixing (a change of light bulb, a bathroom hook) but
these were not seen to during our stay.
Food and drink 7/10
Breakfast, which can be taken in areas throughout the hotel, was wonderful,
consisting of fresh baguette, fruit salad with pomegranate, local honey,
pancakes and light, home made yoghurt. The modern restaurant and cocktail
bar offered respectable European fare and a set, three-course menu that
included salmon with fennel mouse and duck with orange and lavender sauce
for £34.
Value for money 7/10
Art-lovers should splash out, as should those wanting a memorable suite for a
special occasion. Courtyard rooms start at £150 a night; suites at £290 in
low season. Breakfast and afternoon tea is included.
Access for guests with disabilities
The restaurant, and five bedrooms, are on the ground floor allowing for
wheelchair access.
Details
Bab El Ksour, Medina, Marrakesh, Morocco (00 212 524 44 1210; www.riadelfenn.com).
Overall rating
7/10
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