Small Boutique hotels in MARRAKECH

A city celebrated as much for its scents and sounds as its wealth of sights, Marrakech is the beating heart of Morocco. At the centre of this former capital is the Djemaa el-Fna, a vast open space where street performers, storytellers and snake charmers gather together with market stands and food stalls in a vibrant atmosphere that overwhelms the senses.

Nearby the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque rises 69 metres above the cityscape. Built in the 12th Century, the mosque is the largest in Marrakech and an architectural inspiration. Likewise, El Badi Palace was once a vast palace with 360 rooms, a large courtyard and elaborate interiors. Today, the evocative remnants hint at its glorious past.

The souks, found predominantly in the northern Medina, form the classic image of Marrakech as a maze of market stalls. As well as colourful stands with herbs, spices and exotic fruits, there are areas dedicated to textiles, carpets, leatherware, jewellery, ceramics... the list goes on.

The Medina is also where the traditional riads are found. These beautiful properties are centred around peaceful interior courtyards and many are now run as small luxury hotels. Contemporary boutique hotels are equally available in the Gueliz, the modern district of Marrakech, where upmarket restaurants and shopping streets give the city a more cosmopolitan feel.