Riad Dar Ten in Marrakech

One of the most elegant riads located in the heart of the Medina, the old city of Marrakech, would be Riad Dar Ten. It’s only a ten minutes walk from the famous Djemaa el Fna square, but an exciting little trip through hallways that feel like a labyrinth, which are getting smaller and smaller until reaching the gate of the riad.

A feeling of peace will come to you as soon as you step into the riad. The patio with its gorgeous pond (which I still don’t understand if it’s meant to take a swim in) feels like an oasis of serenity. We were welcomed with a hot mint tea by romantic candlelight.

The calmness continues to the rooms. We were staying in the Paprika room: an entirely open space designed with beautiful round shapes made from concrete.

Breakfast is quite an intimate moment within the riad. The host serves each table one by one, so you might have to wait a little if you arrive later than the rest (frivolous to tell, but still important to know if you’re like me: hungry as soon as you wake up). As the patio is quite noise-sensitive, everyone tends to talk softly (or not at all). Little croissants, pancakes, fruits and homemade yogurt are served. Seriously one of the cutest breakfasts I ever had.

Their roof-terrace is a barbie dream come true (painted entirely pink, just like the whole city). Enjoy the relaxing sunbeds, jacuzzi, outdoor shower and a non-stop blue sky above your head.

Another riad I stayed at: Riad Houma.