Jul 28

Jul 28 Riad Utopia Suites & Spa, Marrakech

Marrakech is a bustling, busy city surrounded by desert and the snow-capped Atlas Mountains.

After a day exploring the Medina, haggling for lamps, rugs and jewellery, and admiring the live thatre that unfolds daily in the Djemaa El Fna square, there is nothing quite like a quiet space to retreat to and relax in. This is where Riad Utopia Suites & Spa, Marrakech steps in.

A riad is a traditional Moroccan house, generally speaking built around an internal courtyard or garden. Ssome – like Riad Utopia – even feature an internal plunge or swimming pool.

Riad Utopia definitely lives up to the name and is a true oasis hidden within the centre of Medina – though it may take a little extra effort to find it!

On arrival, mint tea and biscuits are served by the pool while you check in which is so nice after carrying our bags down a narrow alley to get to the entrance.

The interior design is a mix of traditional Morocco style and modern elements with plenty of bright white spaces that are so soothing after the hectic life in the Medina.

With only nine rooms, life at the Riad is never very busy but if you really want some extra solitude, with incredible views, the rooftop terrace is huge and filled with lounges. You can admire the Atlas Mountains off in the distance or just relax with a book. You will even find some privacy curtains around the lounges to make it even more secluded. There isn’t a lot of shade on the roof through and our visit was in August so long stays were avoided due to the searing heat!

Each room has a name instead of a number which is a nice touch and they are all designed slightly differently. Our room was Clair de Musc, filled with a queen bed and an ensuite. Not huge but perfect for our needs as we spent most of our time out exploring Marrakech.

The locks on the doors are massive with antique style keys which are quirky but not super convenient to carry around. Luckily, you can leave them at reception to lighten your purse.

The water in the shower was a little cold but given it was over 40 degrees outside most day, it was kind of refreshing!

There is also a spa onsite but we didn’t try it. We did eat the simple breakfast including fresh orange juice and yoghurt along with the various breads that seemed to be served with every meal in Morocco.

Riad Utopia feels a world away, but this tranquil stay is less than a 15-minute walk from the square and the souks. If I even make it back to Morocco, I wouldn’t hesitate about booking myself a couple of nights back in this oasis.