Riad Meriem

Reviewed by Michael Soffe



DIVINE DESIGN ..............

This one is absolutely stunning! A brief history – Thomas Hays, a New York interior designer, opened his Hotel in 2006 and it has already become one of THE places to stay in Marrakech, holding its head high amongst the handful of “elite” Riads. His love of photography and travel, as well as a keen eye for gorgeous antiques (especially rugs and fabrics) have been used to full effect in creating this beautiful and intimate Hotel. Pastel and earthy shades that are the essence of the natural Moroccan landscape have inspired Thomas in his use of colour. If you are looking for creature comforts, this Riad has them all! I was fortunate enough to meet Thomas and as we chatted by the fire in one of the salons before dinner it soon became apparent that he has put his heart and soul into creating this work of art – his love of the Riad Meriem (Arabic for “Miriam”) and of Marrakech is truly infectious.

A traditional Riad, situated up the tiniest of alleys (as with many of our Marrakech Hotels), you will wonder where on earth you have chosen when you first arrive! But once inside your mouth will open wide as you wonder at this jewel! The interior patio courtyard is filled with plants and when I arrived at night it was lit with candles in every corner. Just beautiful! There is an inviting, small heated plunge pool that serves as the central focus of this enchanting patio. To one side, the traditional salon (formerly used for entertaining) is now a wonderful place to converse with Thomas (when he is in residence) and sip a pre-dinner glass of wine whilst comparing shopping notes with other guests! When Thomas is not at the Riad, (his interior design business is very much in demand!), Cyrus, the English Manager, and his attentive staff will attend to your every need – advising on the best restaurants, arranging the full hammam treatments or 4X4 trips into the desert or Atlas Mountains.

A delightful roof terrace (Thomas again indulges his love of pots and plants!) is a relaxing place to take the sun, order that light lunch, or simply sip that G & T!

Romantically lit corridors (even the chandeliers are designed exclusively for Thomas by the King’s chandelier maker!) lead you to the five fabulous rooms. Truly scrumptious and sumptuous and named Aubergine, Ivory, Red, Star and Matisse – the latter three being the largest. Rich fabrics, wonderful tadlakt walls (the trademark mix of marble and plaster that give the walls a luminous quality) and even hand made beds covered in rich fabrics and the best Egyptian cotton sheets …. makes you want to jump into bed immediately!!! Then again you might be tempted by the rather sexy bathrooms!!! Throw i-pods, Bose stereo systems and speakers into the equation and you can summon up an idea of the attention to detail that has been lavished on Riad Meriem. Wi-Fi throughout and even if you have left your lap-top at home, the Riad will provide one for your use.

Breakfasts are served at your leisure wherever you would like in the Riad. Whether in the dining room, in the patio or on the roof terrace, you tell the lovely staff where you would like to eat and they will set it all up for you. Light lunches are available and excellent dinners also (just please let them know in the morning that you would like to eat “in house” that evening). Inspired tagines with cous-cous and other Moroccan fayre are on offer. At night you it be hard to beat the image of “1001 Arabian nights” as the atmospheric lighting and candles work their magic.

An ideal Hotel for those who want a fabulous escape from the hustle and bustle of the Souks and Medina and for those looking to stay in a genuine Riad (albeit, having been given the most stunning makeover). Within two minutes walk you are in the heart of the spice market area of the Souk. Amazing!


Not surprisingly, the Hotel has been featured in numerous glossy magazines for its design features.