Review of Riad Kaiss, by Jeroen Bergmans

When Riad Kaiss opened a decade ago, it was one of the most stunning luxury riads in Marrakech. Renowned French architect and interior designer Christian Ferre spent three years restoring its palatial 19th-century spaces and adding his eclectic collection of antiques from Morocco, Africa and Asia plus some stunning pieces of art deco furniture. The result is a luxury riad that is grand but still cosy.

The elegant courtyard is a mass of manicured foliage that hides fountains and small salons with open fires that are perfect for romantic dining a deux. Downstairs there's a small spa, a hammam and, up a labyrinth of staircases, a warren of decadent private roof terraces leads to a small, walled plunge pool.

The nine bedrooms are the most alluring aspect of Riad Kaiss, as the detailing is exquisite and there are beautiful paintings and objets at every turn. Rooms 1 and 2 have layouts that best suit families; 7 and 8 are preferable during the winter months as they have open fires. But the most spectacular is room 3 with its red hues, original Moroccan detailing and mouche arabies (elaborate wooden screened windows) overlooking the courtyard below.