OK, a wide angle lens has clearly been used for the website pictures however the effect allows you to see how amazing this riad looks, rather than trying to give a false impression of size. The Etoile d Orient is like an oasis located two minutes from Djemaa El-Fna.

We met by Franck, on arrival and were ushered into the amazing atrium where we sat after being offered some mint tea and the opportunity to pause a moment after our travels. Franck then gave us a tour of the riad and explained the procedures relating to use of the Hamman, Spa treatments and hot tub which is located on the roof terrace.

After our mini tour, Franck showed us to our room. He kindly upgraded us from the Atlas room to the Fedka. The Atlas was the smallest room in the riad and would have been adequate for our needs. The upgrade was a pleasant surprise. All the rooms in the riad are beautifully decorated and furnished to high standard. Each room has a fridge and free WiFi is available. Tea and coffee facilities are not available in the rooms however was provided on request as well as ironing services at no additional charge.

The impression we received from the staff was that if they could they would. This was made clear when we asked about breakfast times. We said that we had an early start the next morning due to a trip to Essaouria. We were asked where our pick up point was and what time we had to be there, then without hesitation we were told that breakfast would be ready at 06:30! Teas, coffee, orange juice, hot and cold milk, cereal, yogurt, toast, pancakes, fresh fruit, cheese and preserves were a welcome sight and made a full and hearty breakfast.

We are pleased that we chose this riad and would definitely stay again. Franck, Rashid Bushra and Majoub helped us to have a memorable experience.

Tip; I recommend arranging a pickup from the airport unless you know the Medina well. This advice applies to all who are staying in this area. It is more expensive than a petit taxi but removes the shock of standing on the edge of Djemaa El-Fna thinking where the hell do I go from here!

Well located for the Soukh. Very comfortable and welcoming. Extremely helpful. Suggest booking transport to and from the airport via the hotel.

My girlfriend and I stayed with Franck at Riad L'Etoile D'Orient for 2 nights in November 2011 and can honestly say that it was one of the best stay's we've had at any hotel, anywhere. Just a short walk from Jemaa El Fna - but still tucked away on a quite street - the perfect escape from the enjoyable hustle of life in the Medina.

From the moment we stepped in the door - the staff was friendly and accommodating. Franck so kindly upgraded us to a bigger room as well - a very lovely surprise.

The room was perfect. A wonderful spa-like bathroom; amazingly comfortable bed; robes and slippers - everything we could ask for after a 2 day trek up Jebel Toubkal.

We were asked what time we'd like them to have breakfast ready for us (another nice surprise, as I had no idea breakfast was included)! After an incredible sleep - we came downstairs to a great breakfast laid out just for us. Cereals, fruit, yoghurt, cakes and pastries, pancakes, juice, tea, coffee - just perfect!

Initially, we had only planned to stay a single night - but after our arrival, we immediately went to Franck to ask if we could stay for another night. We did not want to leave!

If/when we do return to Marrakech - we will no doubt stay at Riad L'Etoile D'Orient again.

We cannot recommend this place enough - stay, stay, stay!

Cheers!

-Greg & Lou

My boyfriend and I spent 3 nights at this beautiful Riad at the start of November 2011. From the moment we stepped through the door we were astounded by the beautiful and luxurious surrounding. We were immediately offered some refreshing mint tea by Franck and then shown to our room and given a quick tour of the residence. Our room was one of the smaller rooms but had everything we needed for a short stay. The Riad is located just off Jemaa El Fna, so it's a fantastic location but you wouldn't know that it was in the middle of the Medina once inside, it is amazingly peaceful. We walked to all of the main sights, no need for transport. Breakfast was served on the roof terrace and consisted of morrocan pancakes, toast, preserves, fresh fruit, yoghurts, dried fruits, fresh orange juice etc.. We spent the early evening in the roof top jacuzzi, recovering from the days sightseeing. The Riad is absolutely spotless, the maids are very attentive and work hard to make sure that everything is in order. We didn't eat there but the food smelt amazing.

I would definitely go back, it was fantastic value for money.