Marrakech's Riads! Part 4 - Palais Sebban

It was my pleasure last year to visit the fabulous city of Marrakech. It is a vibrant city, overflowing with cultural sights, sounds and smells! One of its great surprises was the existence of the Riads! These are traditional Moroccan houses, many within the Medina itself, with an interior courtyard, largely hidden behind walls in alleyways. Often with very unobtrusive signs, their insignificant doors open into hallways leading to, in many cases, the most awesomely beautiful terraces and gardens and little plunge pools. With accommodations to rival any quality hotel, these offer a true Moroccan cultural experience! They provide a real oasis of calm in the midst of this bustling city. You might even need to climb onto the roof terraces to confirm you are still in the middle of Marrakech, from where the views of the city and the stunning Atlas mountains are a gorgeous sight. I would like to share some of my favourites with you... The Palais Sebban has to be one of the most beautiful and ornate Riads in Marrakech! Formerly the residence of Governor Sebban, this 19th century 'jewel' is centrally located in the Medina and within a few minutes walking distance of the main square, Djema el Fna. Palais Sebban has been beautifully preserved and restored. It is a veritable feast for the eyes, with its wonderful ages old wooden doors, intricately carved wooden ceilings, zeliges (tiles) of every colour and shape, and carved plaster frescos. These all work together to offer a unique and stunning gift of a place to stay in Marrakech. I wish there was space here to show you all the photographs I took, there were so many unique features. As you can imagine the rooms do not disappoint, each has been individually named and designed and colour themed, blues, reds, golds, and so on...All are beautifully furnished and decorated. Some are particularly spacious, offering a seating area and terrace. All offer air conditioning. Palais Sebban has a small restaurant which opens onto the terrace of the pool and garden patio. (I didn't eat there so cannot comment on the food.) Nor did I have the opportunity to try the Palais Sebban's Hammams, which I am advised are pretty fantastic, and are guaranteed to leave one feeling relaxed and rejuvenated! The roof terrace offers a tranquil retreat, great for star gazing, or just enjoying the view over the rooftops of the Medina and the beautiful Atlas mountains in the distance. (I'm told that its good to eat breakfast up there, as the sun comes up and the city comes to life) I will be delighted to tell you more about Marrakech, and its unexpected, charming Riads. Please call me anytime on 023 80863663