Hotel Review｜Villa des Orangers: A Stunning Moroccan Riad Retreat
Finally sharing this gem from last year's trip! As a designer, I love discovering and sharing beautiful hotels that blend aesthetics with authentic experiences. After taking the train from Casablanca to Marrakech, I checked into Villa des Orangers—a luxurious Relais & Châteaux property that once was a 1930s palace, now transformed into one of the city's most enchanting garden riads. 🏰✨ Why This Riad is Special 📍 Prime Location Steps away from the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, yet an oasis of calm. Just 3km from Marrakech train station and 4km from Menara Airport. Walkable to the medina souks and the iconic Koutoubia Mosque. 🌿 A Hidden Oasis Morocco’s contrasts are striking—outside the riad’s walls, the city buzzes with chaotic energy; inside, you’re greeted by three lush courtyards filled with orange trees, lemon groves, and olive branches. The air is perfumed with blossoms, and the sound of trickling fountains adds to the serenity. Traditional carved plaster arches and zellige-tiled corridors connect every space, with cozy nooks for sipping mint tea. 🛏️ Timeless Moroccan Design Rooms feature handwoven tapestries, intricate tilework, and soft lighting from hammered brass lanterns. Each has a private balcony with views over the city or gardens. My top-floor suite included direct rooftop access—worth every penny! 🏊 Rooftop Paradise The pool and terrace offer panoramic views of the Koutoubia Mosque and the Atlas Mountains. By day, it’s a sun-drenched retreat; by night, the lantern-lit ambiance is pure magic. 🛍️ Bonus Finds A boutique inside the riad sells beautifully crafted Moroccan caftans (I snagged one at a great price!). The on-site restaurant is a must—book ahead for a romantic dinner under the stars. Final Thoughts Villa des Orangers isn’t just a hotel—it’s a living masterpiece of Moroccan architecture and hospitality. If you crave a blend of luxury, culture, and tranquility, this is the place. Hotel: Villa des Orangers (Relais & Châteaux) Where: Marrakech Medina #TravelInStyle #MoroccanRiad #LuxuryTravel #HiddenGems #DesignHotels #Wanderlust
