Riad Ma'ab, Marrakech, Morocco

Located on the quiet derb Chentouf in Riad Laarousse within the ancient Medina of Marrakech, is the completely renovated Riad Ma'ab. Traditional design infused with hand made Berber furnishings from local craftsmen makes Riad Ma'ab a casual and comfortable home to return to after the exotic and vibrant street life of the Marrakech.The riad is close to the Musee de Marrakech, Ben Youssef Madrasa, the souks and only a 5 to 10 minute walk to Jemaa el Fna. Taxi access is an easy 2 minute walk.

The riad hosts 5 guest bedrooms. One located on the ground floor and four rooms on the first floor, each decorated with hand loomed Berber carpets and artifacts from regions of the Atlas Mountains. All have bathrooms ensuite, two with full deep baths and three with showers. Nearly all furnishings are hand crafted, so we are continually having things delivered as they are finished.

Within the courtyard is the bhou, a comfortable sitting area to read... write... eat... or have Moroccan tea. Relax in the salon listening to the selection of North African music or dine by the fireplace in the cooler months. The courtyard, naturally shady and cool during the hot months is perfect for breakfast or tea. On the terrace, views of Ali Ben Youssef Mosque and peeks of the Atlas Mountains by day; by night the rising steam from Jemaa el Fna . Choose between the Moroccan sofa and traditional Berber sitting area or at the zellige tables under the Berber inspired umbrella for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Lounge under the magnificent Moroccan sun for a healthy dose of vitamin D. Or just relax with light appetizers and drinks before sunset and watch the strokes fly by.

Riad Ma'ab has free WiFi Internet access, iPod docking station on request , an iron for those who have to and easy phone access to the U.S., U.K., Ireland, France, Italy, and Spain at a minimal charge. No TV's by design.

We use 100% ecological cleaning products and washing detergents at the riad. No artificial fragrances. Natural Maroc incense, unscented candles, fragrant flowers and spices fill the air. The cuisine is stocked with 2 cooking oils... olive oil and argan oil. Fresh local produce and proteins are sourced for the best quality. Meals are Berber inspired; simple, fresh and delicious. We are happy to provide Moroccan wines and beer.

For your service and assistance the riad is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The riad hosts 5 guest bedrooms with soft toned walls, bejmat floors and tadelakt bathrooms. There is one bedroom located on the ground floor and four bedrooms on the first floor. All bedrooms overlook the courtyard and have AC / heat, closet with shelves and closet with hangers. The linen is fine 100% Egyptian cotton, 550 count for queen and full beds, 300 count for twin. Each bed has 100% down duvet. We provide down alternate duvet on request.

Two bedrooms, Beni Ouarain on the ground floor and Tazenahkt on the first floor have a long deep bathtub. The other 3 rooms have showers. Our towels are thick and soft 100% cotton. We provide natural Moroccan hand soap of lavender, honey, or olive oil.

Each room is named for a region or village in the Atlas mountains and is decorated with hand loomed Berber carpets and artifacts from those areas.

We are approximately 5 KM from Marrakech Menara airport, 2 KM from Marrakech train and 3/4 KM from Marrakech bus station.

If you arrive by foot, taxi or bus, go to the big pharmacia in Riad Laarousse. Walk up Rue Riad Laarous toward Sidi Abd El Aziz. At the third street (this is Derb Chentouf) turn left, then an immediate right. We are number 23 Derb Chentouf.