This was our first visit to Marrakech and thanks to Bernard and Jamal it will not be our last. Initially, Marrakech is a shock to your senses....the congestion, the crowds, the poverty but once you meander through the alleyways and come to Riad Menzeh's simple wooden door you walk into an oasis, a home away from home. A place where you feel energized each morning to begin your adventures and a welcome relief to come home to after an exhausting day! The Riad is centered around an open courtyard and tree, hence the term Riad, and the gleaming tile floors and whitewashed walls make this a perfect setting for breakfast, afternoon tea, drinks and even dinner. The rooms are located upstairs surrounding the open courtyard below. Our oversized room was lovely, with a small sofa covered in Moroccan cloth, washed sienna colored walls, firm bed, a huge bathroom with double sinks and an inviting tub, with shower, plus heavenly bath products, made in Marrakech.
Bernard was born to be a host. This is his home. You never feel like a paying guest but more of a friend coming to visit. He's thoughtful, knowledgable and interesting, and will always point you in the right direction when you get lost...which, if you don't lose your way you haven't taken full advantage of visiting this city!
Jamal is a huge part of the Riad Menzeh family too. He's always present, asking after you, offering tea, advice and help. He helped us buy spices near the Riad and always answered our silly questions in regard to bargaining in the Medina, shopping, etc. If Bernard doesn't have the answer, Jamal always does!
We were fortunate enough to eat dinner at the Riad on 2 evenings and these dinners were by far the best we had in Marrakech. All local, traditional dishes made with outstanding flavors and spices. Breakfast is simple...good Moroccan coffee and tea, local breads, homemade jam and cake! A perfect way to start the day.
Riad Menzeh also has a small hamman which we took full advantage of. I felt like a child being scrubbed, bathed and massaged. The hamman has heated walls and floors which add to the enchanting ambiance.
I can't imagine a better introduction to Marrakech than Riad Menzeh, Bernard and Jamal. The Riad is a true gem with fantastic hosts. Our memories of Marrakech will always revolve around our stay there. Remember this is old Marrakech and part of the experience is staying in the local environment. If you're expecting a big sterile hotel, with all the extras and endless options then a Riad is not for you. Stay in new Marrakech, about 20 minutes outside the Medina area, with its golf courses, shopping centers and casino and you'll be one of those travelers who say they've been to Morocco yet just never experienced it!
- Official Description (provided by the hotel):
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Riad Menzeh is located in a small and peaceful street in the heart of Marrakech old city.
10 minutes walk from the well known Marrakech main square of Jemaa el Fna, Riad Menzeh is the perfect place to enjoy this amazing city.
Bernard and his staff will be happy to help you discover Marrakech the Red City of mysteries, sounds, smells and flavors. Activate your senses in this unique part of the world.
Above all, we'€™d like to share with you our passion for this stunning and colorful city and its people, incredibly nice and friendly.
Indulge yourself in a traditional spa massage over a steam bath and warm pore cleansing with scented black soap and ghassul (clay) in our private Hammam.
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