Riad Capaldi

Hotel review

Amidst the ever growing number of chic little riads in Marrakech, it’s quite difficult to stand out from the crowd. However what Riad Capaldi manages to deliver in spades is a quiet haven with a truly great bunch of staff who are on hand to ensure that whatever the obstacle, they will sort it out. Whether that be advising on the best local restaurant or simply helping you navigate your way amidst the labyrinth of the medina. There are just seven individually designed rooms (one is a suite) all arranged around the central open courtyard (complete with an extraordinary, huge banana plant for shade), all located on the first floor and one with its own private roof terrace. The style is classic in feel — a chic and refined new meets old combo — with traditionally tiled floors, dark shuttered windows, carefully placed mirrors and a plethora of original features including an original cedar ceiling, old Moroccan plasterwork and bejmat flooring. Downstairs in the communal guest areas this design is continued in the salon, library and dining room. Walls are white-washed and adorned with carefully chosen modern artworks and there are plenty of sofas and chairs for lounging, not to mention books, games etc to keep everyone amused on lazy days. Other notable features are the plunge pool in the courtyard (larger than at first glance) and the roof terrace which is the place to be of an evening, drink in hand admiring the sunset. Location wise Riad Capaldi is in the heart of the Medina, in a quiet less touristy spot, a stone’s throw from the Museum of Photography and a good stroll through the souks to the Koutoubia mosque. For a low-key stay in understated luxury, Riad Capaldi will not disappoint.

Sarah Empson Review published: 03/12/2024