We chose to stay at Riad Mabrouka for our first trip to Marrakech in October 2011, and it really did make a huge difference to our holiday. Right from our first enquiry, they were helpful and eager to accommodate us; Laurent, the owner, was quick to respond to queries and arrange our booking, and the riad arranged our airport transfer, which was affected by a delayed flight. On arrival, Hassan was waiting for us at the taxi rank at the top of the street, and led us to the riad, where we were immediately offered mint tea and biscuits before being given a tour of the building, which is beautiful and tastefully decorated, yet still very homely.

We stayed in the Grenade room, which was simply decorated but very comfortable, and very cool away from the Moroccan heat. When in the riad, we spent the majority of our time either relaxing in the courtyard or enjoying the beautiful whether on the lovely roof terrace. Breakfast was served on the roof each morning, and was made up of Moroccan bread, pancakes, fruit and yoghurt. The riad also provided an evening meal for free during our stay, which was a delicious (but huge!) tagine.

Location-wise, the riad couldn't really have been any better. The car park and taxi rank at the end of the street made a useful point of reference and also made it easier to know where we needed to be if we were taking a taxi from out of town. The main square is around a 10 minute walk - we got lost looking for it the first time we ventured out, but it doesn't take long to get the hang of the route.

What really made our stay at the Mabrouka special was the fact that the staff, Hassan in particular, simply couldn't do enough to help us out. They recommended and booked restaurants, arranged day trips, researched and booked a cookery course that we were interested in, and Hassan walked us to a nearby square on our first evening to show us the way to a bar we wanted to eat in. The service was personal and intimate, yet never intrusive, and it made for the perfect retreat away from the chaos of the city.

I can't recommend Riad Mabrouka highly enough, and if I visit Marrakech again I will definitely return.

Being the time of the Muslim holiday of the the sacrifice, Marrekech and the Riad were quieter than normal yet Hassan put himself out to be helpful with advice and friendly tips for us as first-timers in Marrakech. The Riad is a delight with just the right balance of restrained sophistication and local charm including delightful breakfasts with local yogurts, fresh pomegranate seeds and Maroccan crepes. Very highly recommended. Our thanks from Anne and James.

Hassan and Mourad are to be congratulated for making our stay at the Riad Mabrouka one of the most memorable my wife and I have experienced. From the minute we walked over the threshold it was obvious that we'd made the right choice. The room was outstanding but what really made the difference compared with other places we'd stayed was the extent and quality of living rooms and terracing which guests enjoyed. Conveniently placed with loads to see within walking distance. The accommodation is like being a guest in a friends house rather than an impersonal hotel. Service can't be faulted, especially when it came to 'cup of tea time' and Pimms o'clock. Read the other reviews and you won't be disapointed. What a gem!

Hassan and Mourad were fantastic. so helpful and knowledgeable even to the point where Hassan took me on the back of his motorbike to a spa across town. definitely recommend. Brakfast is great too. Great place to stay if first time in Marakech as instantly makes you relaxed and looked after. thanks guys. Hopefully will be back.