Description
Riad Si Said and Riad Bab Firdaus are our 2 favourites among the 6 Angsana Riads located in the bustling labyrinth that is Marrakech's medina. However, don't let a stay in one of these stop you from exploring all of the others - they are all within a 5 minute walk from each other and guests can use the facilities at the riads in all of the collection.
Angasna's flagship riad, Riad Si Said is the closest of all of the riads to the centre of Marrakech's medina and is a spacious, luxurious all-suite property with seven suites over two floors. It is decorated throughout with traditional Zelij and Moroccan tiles and in opulent shades of gold and cream. Facilities include all day dining at the traditional Moroccan restaurant, a pool, hammam and indulgent massage room. It also has a wonderful rooftop sun deck with jacuzzi.
The nearby Bab Firdaus, or 'gateway to heaven', is situated in one of the oldest quarters of the medina and offers a contemporary twist to the traditional riad. Its 4 deluxe rooms and 3 suites are all tastefully adorned with handwoven carpets and traditional artefacts, blending Moroccan influences with those you would expect in an international standard hotel. Riad Bab Firdaus has a superb rooftop terrace along with a small pool and extensive spa facilities which include an indoor heated pool, jacuzzi beds, large hammam and spa treatment room. Specialities of the house include traditional Moroccan and Thai cuisine.
Small touches such as offering a mobile phone when venturing into the souks epitomises the attention to detail on show from the staff, many of whom have had careers in the Banyan Tree and Angsana family of hotels. In short, these delightful properties offer a blend of traditional Moroccan Riad architecture with modern touches, superb service and excellent spa treatments.
Guide price
£870 Per person
£870 per person for 5 nights, based on 2 people sharing a Deluxe Room, on a bed and breakfast basis, including international flights and transfers
Accommodation
Riad Si Said is an all suite property and interconnecting suites are ideal for family stays. Riad Bab Firdaus has 4 deluxe rooms, all of which have a shower (one has a bath) and 3 suites which have a larger floor space and sitting area. All rooms and suites in both properties are air conditioned and heated, have a mini bar, tea and coffee facilities, DVD on request, hairdryer and safe.
Childcare
Riad Si Said is better suited to families with children as there are rooms which can interconnect. Children are more than welcome here and will love the excitement of the medina's souks. There are no specific facilities for children in the riads but your host is on hand to help with any special requests or questions and babysitting can be arranged on request.
Facilities
Both riads have swimming pools, hammams, spa facilities and wonderful fresh cuisine which is served on the roof terraces or inside the cosy dining areas. Guests can choose to eat in the other riads in Angsana's collection. Riad Bab Firdaus specialises in Thai Cuisine and Riad Si Said specialises in Moroccan fare.
Activities
Marrakech's main square Djemaa El Fna is a short walk from both properties, as are the Dar Si Said and Bahia Palace Museums. Days can be spent exploring the medina, mellah (Jewish quarter) and the souks. One of the best pastimes in the medina is to sit in a cafe, sip mint tea and just soak up all the mahem of the bustling crowds. There are two golf courses, horse riding and tennis all available within a 30 minute drive.
Services
At each Angsana riad, guests are assigned a host who can provide and advice and personal assistance. The hosts can book spa and restaurant appointments on your behalf and can guide you to the best place for what you are looking for in the maze of souks. Guests are also provided with a mobile phone should they need to make local calls or contact their host for any reason whilst out and about.
When to travel
Weather-wise, the best times to go are spring and autumn, when temperatures are 20°C to 25°C by day and at least 10°C by night, and November to February, with cooler nights but similar daytime temperatures and light rainfall possible. The weather in March and April features sporadic, light rainfall with some sandstorms in April, while June sees dusty siroccos (desert winds) sweep through the city. From mid-June to August temperatures rise into the 30s and occasionally 40s.
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Best time to visit
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Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Marrakech Medina, Morocco
In and around the Marrakech Medina
How to get there
3.5hr direct flight then 20min private transfer by road
