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When Ho Kwon Ping, chairman of Asia's luxury Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts, visited Marrakech in 2005, he was so taken by the riad experience he wanted to offer it to his guests. Fast-forward to December 2007 and the group has opened six riads in Marrakech, under sister brand Angsana, with more to follow in the city and Essaouira on the coast. In typical riad style, the properties are all built around a central courtyard, with just a handful of rooms and lovely roof terraces. Five are clustered in the Medina, near Bahia Palace, while the sixth is 10 minutes' walk away in the Kasbah. You'd be hard pushed to choose a favourite: each is romantic and delightful in its own way and, best of all, guests can use the facilities of any in the collection. The all-suite 19th-century Riad Si Said stands out for its opulent decor and large pool. Decorated in gold and cream, with intricate mosaic tiles, it's where Grand Vizier Ba Ahmed kept his concubines. Riad Lydines has a sleek, more modern feel and the suite, where we stayed, has a private rooftop hot tub. One of the most atmospheric is Riad Tiwaline, with its dark-wood decked courtyard. Angsana's Asian roots shine through in the menus, which feature Thai alongside Moroccan dishes, and the spas. There's no space for full-blown facilities, but each riad has a treatment room and a
hammam where Thai staff deliver exquisite massages. Service is hard to fault, riad hosts cater to all needs and there's a choice of daily activities, from cooking classes and city tours to trekking in the Atlas Mountains. But at the end of a busy in day in chaotic Marrakech, the peaceful charm of the riads could well be the highlight of your trip.
WHEN TO GO
Spring or autumn.
ROOM TO BOOK
Moulay Ahmed suite in Riad Blanc for its beautiful stained glass.
Marrakech (020 3008 4875; www.angsana.com). Doubles from 192; Moulay Ahmed suite from 360
Find out more about Marrakech in our city guide |
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