A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an elaborate open-air interior garden courtyard. In fact, the meaning of riad is ‘garden’. This courtyard is a sanctuary and respite from the outside world. Beautiful tile work, lush plants, and rose petal-adorned water features commonly grace this space, imparting tranquility. Originally owned by the wealthy, many riads have now been turned into guest houses, run like bed and breakfasts or boutique hotels, providing a genuinely Moroccan experience. Riads are known for their exquisite displays of intricate Moroccan architecture, warm hospitality and cuisine that equals fine restaurant dining.
Here are five things to know before staying in a Moroccan Riad:
1. Rooms are off the main courtyard because this center area is the highlight
Image courtesy of Riad Kniza.
Rather than windows and balconies opening to the outside, they face inwards. The open ceiling allows the whole house to be filled with light during the day.
This design has been used for two different reasons. The first originates from the Islamic value of privacy. The courtyard allows family and friends to meet, spend time together, and enjoy the delights of being outside while having complete privacy.
The second reason is more practical; the large courtyard-centred house allows cool air to enter the house and keeps the heat to a minimum during hot Moroccan summers. In the summer months, this feature makes riad comfortable even at the hottest time of day.
2. Accessing rooms may require many narrow steps
As quaint as these winding staircases are, guests with mobility concerns will want to request a ground-floor room.
3. Rooms are truly unique (and make for stunning photos!)
Image courtesy of Dar Kawa.
As riads often only have ten, or fewer, rooms, each room will be designed and decorated individually. Hallmarks of riad décor are immaculately tiled bathrooms, rich colors, and incredible artwork.
4. Meals taken at a riad will likely be the meals that you remember most from your time in Morocco
Often people who are not houseguests come to riad for a special meal. Guests with dietary requirements can easily be catered for.
5. Riad are usually located in the heart of the medina – the centre of the old town
Image courtesy of Le Riad Yasmine.
As they were once homes, their location was convenient to the center. This makes riad a convenient location for guests to use as a base for exploration.
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