Riad Zina by Joanna Monkhouse

Riad Zina is vibrant, funky and fun – from the cacti in the courtyard and the long leather banquettes that are just made for lounging around, to the original chairs dotted around, to contemporary cupboards you would never imagine are made in Morocco. Coloured sand hanging on the wall, bright beads, retro lamps and shimmering wall hangings – interesting objects meet your gaze wherever it lands, and the two tortoises searching for toes to nibble add to the sense of kitsch.

The spacious suite decorated in shades of red has tall arched doorways, a high domed ceiling with a skylight, two low double beds and a single so it can sleep up to five. There is a further double room on the first floor and two more on the ground floor (one with a private but not ensuite shower room), each decorated individually, a unique blend of cultures and eras. The relaxed vibe continues on the roof terrace where more low level seating nestles under the shade of fabric printed with a ‘60s pattern.

Riad Zina is a great place for couples, friends or families and is ideal for renting whole. The vivacious German owner has plans for a new project across the Straits of Gibraltar, in Tarifa. Watch this space.