Review of Demeures D'Orient, by Isabel Clift

Converted from an old Qur'anic school, Demeures d'Orient is a 15 minute stroll from the medina - but such is the calm of the place, the souks feel a lot further away. Mixing traditional design with a modern luxe aesthetic, Demeures d'Orient is perfect for some peace and quiet in Marrakech, with friendly staff on hand 24/7. For extra privacy, the Riad can be rented exclusively to groups.

The facilities

Mint tea is served in the library on arrival, which makes for a wonderful welcome. Continue the pampering with a trip to the hammam, which has separate rooms for massages and treatments, as well as a Jacuzzi. Food-wise, you can't beat a candlelit dinner on the large roof terrace, but meals can also be taken in the restaurant or on the patio. Palm trees surround an outdoor pool in the courtyard, which makes for a magic place to take a dip.

The rooms

Nine rooms and one apartment are arranged around the courtyard. There's rich decor throughout, making even the smallest room (named Dacha) feel palatial - in design, if not in size. Junior Suites offer more wiggle room: choose between the Chinese Imperial-styled Flower of Jade, Mandalay's delicate traditional Indian decor and the orange-blossom themed Amoudiara.

Luxury Suites are even more spacious, with large marble bathrooms to match. The Venetian Suite is coloured in pink ochres, while the Byzantine Suite is a lavish chocolate and turquoise affair. Meanwhile, the refined Pearl of Siam Suite is totally calming.

The two Royal Suites are, in a word, gorgeous. Both have large marble bathrooms with separate showers, but Andalusia has unique views of the courtyard fountain and Perle d'Orient has room for up to four people. As the most opulent suites in the house, these are perfect for a taste of real North African luxury.