Riad O2

We booked for a luxury but down-to-earth stay in early December, bringing a group of students. The meals were lovely and the staff worked hard. Moad was professional, very helpful, and tried to fix problems promptly. Still, most of our students couldn’t get a warm or hot shower, and the jacuzzi swung between scalding, too cool, and having no propane. For a five-star hotel, a pleasant warm shower feels like a basic expectation. We chose the place after seeing many five-star reviews. Looking more carefully at earlier reviews now, I see other guests also described bad winter experiences, and ours was similar. Resources may be scarce, but it would have helped to know ahead that the jacuzzi runs on propane, so we could plan around it. Heating it took four hours. We asked for it to be heated ten hours a day so students could use it at different times, but that used up the propane, and by the time we went to use it, none was left. A three-hour window would have been fine if we’d known and could tell the students to plan accordingly. Communication was also difficult because of the language barrier. Several requests were misunderstood or not carried out. Ownership should update its promotions so they set accurate expectations for winter.

I’m here now and having a very good stay so far. The rooms are spacious and nice, and above all very clean. The bedding is refreshed daily and fresh towels are provided. We had an airport transfer arranged by the Riad, which was a big help, and dinner was waiting when we arrived. It was excellent, especially handy after a late flight. There’s also a lovely terrace for breakfast or dinner. I’d recommend staying here if you’re coming to Morocco.

I came back to the Riad three years later, and it’s still amazing. I’ve stayed in over 20 riads and small hotels around Morocco, and this is still my absolute favourite. It’s a superb place in Marrakesh’s old city. Make sure to try the lamb tajine, it’s really, really good!

La Douiria, attached to Road O2, gave our family a quiet place to come back to after busy days exploring the Medina. All the main sights are within walking distance. It has excellent privacy while still being attached to the Riad, with three bedrooms, a salon, and a private terrace. The hammam and cooking service were great, and meals can be served in the douiria on request. The food was great. Marie and Hugues were easy to communicate with, Moad gave us a warm welcome, and Hassan and Rachida did a splendid job cooking and looking after us. The place is very quiet, with firm beds and good bathrooms, one with a proper bath and another with a shower. There’s free private WiFi, towels and soap, and the photos match what you find. The staff were super friendly and even prepared the chimney one evening. The little pool is like most inner-city riad pools, more for cooling off than swimming, about the size of a Jacuzzi. Otherwise, we had no improvements to suggest. It’s a great family spot, including for families with small children like our niece. Since it’s in the Medina, we’d definitely arrange an airport pickup to help find the way.