Staying in a Riad is all about getting an insider's glimpse to what lays behind the 30' dirt/brick walls and secretive doors that create an aura of mystery and intrigue in this community . At Porte Royale, one steps from a dusty and narrow path into Shangri-la. The photos on the site -- as stunning as they are -- don't do it proper justice. And then there's Mohammed and Hajiba. If there was a way to increase my rating to Superlative I would and it's because of these two people. Mohammed runs the operations side - -always available and accommodating. Hajiba -- an amazing chef! Were she to open a restaurant anywhere, you'd probably have to book months in advance. Fresh squeezed OJ and homemade yogurt and eggs and more every morning? Oh yes, she's as gracious as she is talented. Only regret is we only spent one week.

My friends and I just returned from a magical stay at Riad Porte Royale. The Riad is beautiful, the decor just lovely and Mohamed, Hajiba and Najet were so accomodating. We had a fantastic week there, two delicious dinners and lovely breakfasts. Thank you to Mohamed and Hajiba for making us feel so welcomed. You are delightful! And thank you to Philip for creating such a wonderful place.

The riad was calm and peaceful, with a cool pool in the courtyard where we sat and dangled our feet after a walk back from the souk. It is about 20 minutes from the main square which brings the benefits of quiet (other friends staying in Marrakech were woken by loud calls to prayer in the early hours) and also means you get to know the geography of the souk fast. The service is very friendly and pleasant, breakfast delicious and the rooms clean and characterful. We added another person to our party at the last minute and the riad was very accommodating on price. Beware that not all the rooms have aircon. Our stay at Riad Porte Royale was delightful, highly recommended

A group of 6 friends decided on a week in Marrakesh for a break. By luck we found the Porte Royale website as we needed 2 twin rooms and a double. Philip was very helpful with advice and then Mohamed and Hajiba took over. We were met at the airport and taken to a great welcome at the riad where lunch was served. The riad is perfect, traditional, simple, uncluttered. Mohamed helped us with a great guide, Jamal, to the souk and day trips to Essaouira and the Ourika Valley. He also recommended the lovely nearby Riad des Mers for dining. After the first day we got or bearings and as the riad is near the Bab el Yakout we had no difficulty finding it on our own from then on. We loved it.