The first thing our hosts Patrick & Liliane did was take us on an orienteering course of the Medina – this didn’t prevent us getting lost, but did mean we didn’t lose our way quite as often as we might have……their riad is a beautiful, tranquil oasis and a ‘home from home’, that is, if my home was half as stylish with original oil paintings hung throughout! Breakfasts were a treat for the senses and looked stunning as well as tasting great: little touches, for instance one morning the butter would be topped with poppy seeds, another morning with toasted sesame seeds or an artfully arranged cashew nut! My French was a little rusty but we had no problems communicating restaurant recommendations, hammam suggestions and sightseeing tips. If you’re looking for a small (3 guest rooms), minimalist and chic riad in the heart of the Medina for a reasonable price, then Dar Nour El Houda is the perfect choice.

Elegantly renovated French run Dar not far from Medersa Ben Youssef, and musee of Photography. Quite, super comfortable beds, spotless bathrooms, nice living area & terrace. Our stay would have been even more enjoyable if we were able to speak french to the nice owners.

The interior design of this riad is breathtaking: Simple, elegant and warm, imaginative and inspiring. Patrick and Liliane Carpentier have created a beautiful, tranquil oasis within the walls of the old city of Marrakech. They have taken the beauty of traditional Morrocan plaster (Tadelakt) and mixed it with transcendental Zen design elements for an arrestingly beautiful effect.

The beauty of the riad is a total reflection of the Carpentiers. What wonderful hosts! I was so, so sorry that we could not have stayed longer. Much as I loved the atmosphere of Marrakech, I loved the experience of just being in this riad even more. We felt instantly at home thanks to Patrick and Liliane's warm welcome. And the rooms are gorgeous! I loved their use of space as well as the materials they used. Sumptuous without being at at all gaudy. Texture, rather than color is a key design element in the rooms and is wildly successful in creating a calm, cozy space. The beauty of the bed linens made it look too pretty to disturb, yet too pretty to resist! And oh what a wonderful bed! I slept better there than I do in my own bed!

In nearly every room, a wall is graced with Patrick's paintings. His work is beautiful- his colors are those of Marrakech- vibrant, warm and rich. His art is a perfect compliment to the interior design of the riad.

It is not an overstatement to say that this riad, with its wonderful hosts and gorgeous interiors, is a destination in and of itself. You cannot help but enjoy Marrakech, but oh what a treat to have such a wonderful destination within a destination. Dar Nour El Houda is perfect without being uptight. I cannot wait to return.