Ryad Mabrouka, Fez, Morocco
Ryad Mabrouka 4 Stars
"A beautifully restored riad near Merindides Hill thats showcases traditional Fez architecture, local craftsmanship and French furniture."
Hotel Overview
Review of Ryad Mabrouka, by Nadia Latif
Fez sits immovable and sprawling in a dusty basin in northern Morocco. Its tangle of alleyways and side-streets are mostly unmarked, and a complete conundrum for the uninitiated traveller. It is the oldest intact medieval medina in the Islamic world, simultaneously a delight and an exasperation; expect muddles of silverware, spices and tottering pack animals at every turn.
The best way to tackle any of Morocco's imperial cities is to check into a traditional riad. And in Fez, the grandest of these riads is the Ryad Mabrouka. Its position is near unrivalled, set just outside the old city walls and high enough for sweeping city views from the rooftop terrace.
French owner Michel Trezzi renovated the Mabrouka in a thoroughly grown-up manner, making excellent use of its generous proportions. There's as much to rave about in the communal spaces as in the bedrooms. The central courtyard is serene, a traditional fountain bubbling away in its centre and plenty of armchairs and sofas scattered about.
But what really sets Ryad Mabrouka apart is its garden. Low-slung tables are weighed down with mint tea service during the day and excellent Moroccan cuisine as evening draws in. The flowering roses and citrus trees are a welcome respite from the throng of the medina. Tucked away by the farthest wall is a good-sized swimming pool.
Each of the eight bedrooms (including six suites) is elegantly decorated. Traditional Moroccan mosaics and tadelakt bathrooms sit side-by-side with French family heirlooms. There's a conspicuous absence of modern technology here; once you enter the ceiling-height carved wooden doors, all focus is on rest, relaxation and the refinement of expat Michel's innate style.
Facilities
Hotel Policies
Rooms
8Who stays here?
Popular with honeymooners and older couples.
Come for...
- The fragrant rose garden with small but inviting pool
- Panoramic views of the medina from the roof terrace
- Exquisite French antiques and imposing oil paintings
Not Suitable for...
- Cutting-edge business facilities
- Disabled access
Children
Families are welcome. Interconnecting rooms and extra beds are avaliable.
Eating in
The hotel restaurant prepares traditional Moroccan cuisine, served on the rooftop garden overlooking the medina. Michel Trezzi, the French proprietor, will occasionally include French and Mediterranean specialties on the menu.
The Press Say
"A treasure in every way. Eight suites are arranged around a courtyard, all authentically decorated. Eating delicious Moroccan food on the verandah at night overlooking the medina is unforgettable, and you’ll love resting in the garden filled with flowers and citrus trees." Harper's Bazaar 06Reviews
Review of Ryad Mabrouka, by Joanna Monkhouse
The luxury riad Ryad Mabrouka is a great place to pitch up in Fez. But staying in a Moroccan riad is somewhat difficult to describe to the uninitiated. They vary in the quality of the accommodation, comfort, service, and the personality of the owner. Ryad Mabrouka's Michel Trezzi is a gem. A nomadic Frenchman, now living in his 5th country, he spent years honing his hospitality in the hotel industry in France, Dubai, South Africa and the US, and then maximising enjoyment at Disney before moving to Fez and converting a traditional riad to a 8 room guesthouse.
Trezzi has an instinctive understanding of what his guests are looking for. Claiming not to strive for perfection, he and his capable team achieve something close, and his charm along with that of his house more than compensates for anything less. Priced in the mid-range, the service is friendly and welcoming, allowing guests to feel instantly at home.
The facilities
Located on the edge of the medina yet minutes from the souqs, Ryad Mabrouka has a pretty garden of orange and lemon trees and a pool in which to cool off, a comfortable place to relax after discovering the Imperial City's treasures.
The dining area on one side of the gallery has magnificent views over Fez, and the simple Moroccan food is highly regarded. At times such as Christmas when French cuisine is served, Michel can be found in the kitchen himself.
The rooms
The eight suites at the luxury riad fan out around the courtyard and the first floor balcony, with a fountain gently flowing in the centre. Comfortably furnished with French antiques and Moroccan rugs, each has an ensuite tadelakt bath or shower room. The twin bedded room can connect with one of the suites. A recently added standard double room has a bed on a mezzanine level to take advantage of the high window with views over the medina.