Dar Al Kounouz by Joanna Monkhouse

Dar Al Kounouz is a compact but charming riad with six small ensuite rooms. Decorated in a traditional Moroccan style and faithfully restored using time-old techniques and handicrafts – carved plasterwork, zellige, green roof tiles – it offers good value for those seeking an authentic address in Marrakech.

The rooms are comfortable and welcoming with attractive furnishings. Iron framed double beds or twins are standard and one room (Ivoire) can accommodate three. All the bathrooms have showers except for two with a bath.

The courtyard, which has a central fountain, palm trees and a small ‘coin salon’, is covered over in winter allowing guests to use it whatever the weather, and there is also the main salon which has a fireplace. There is a hamman too. The roof terrace of Dar Al Kounouz is next to the walls of the King’s Palace and has a good view of the medina. The staff are friendly and helpful.