Dar El Calame

Dar El Calame Overview

You know what hit me first about Dar El Calame? The silence. I mean, you’re literally tucked away on this tiny street called Derb Hidada in the Ben Saleh quarter, and somehow all the chaos of Marrakech’s medina just… stops. It’s honestly kind of magical how they’ve managed to create this pocket of calm when you’re maybe a five-minute walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa’s complete madness.

The riad itself feels like someone’s incredibly stylish grandmother decided to open her home to travelers – if that grandmother happened to have impeccable taste and serious money for renovations. The traditional architecture is all there (gorgeous tilework, that classic central courtyard with the fountain), but everything’s been updated so thoughtfully. The rooms actually have proper lighting for reading, which sounds basic but trust me, after staying in a few riads where you squint at your book, you appreciate it. I stayed during shoulder season in October, and while the rooftop terrace was perfect for morning coffee, I can imagine it being absolutely essential during those brutal summer months when the medina turns into an oven.

What really sets this place apart – and why I think it’s earned that 9.1 rating – is how the staff genuinely seems to know the neighborhood. Not just the tourist spots, but like, where to get your phone fixed if it dies, or which hammam the locals actually use (hint: it’s not the fancy one in your guidebook). Ahmed at the front desk basically became my unofficial city guide, and he never once tried to steer me toward his cousin’s carpet shop or whatever. The breakfast spread is proper Moroccan – fresh bread, local honey, olives that actually taste like something – served in this gorgeous dining room that catches the morning light perfectly.

Here’s the thing though: the medina location means you’re walking everywhere, and those narrow streets can be tricky with luggage. But honestly? Once you’re settled in, being able to slip through the less touristy alleys and emerge right near the souks feels like having a secret passage. The neighborhood gets wonderfully quiet after sunset when the day-trippers head back to their resort hotels, and you can actually hear the call to prayer echoing off the walls instead of competing with tour groups. Just be prepared for the occasional late-night wedding celebration – it’s Morocco, after all, and the sound carries in these old streets. But even that becomes part of the charm after a night or two.

Dar El Calame Accommodations

Reviews of Dar El Calame

• Superb – Bafier from Belgium – 8 November 2024 (9/10)

  Friendly and cozy place, nice breakfast. It was nice and secluded from the outside world, but you could hear pretty much everything that happened in the common spaces from within our room. This is not unusual for these type of accomodations though. The hosts are super friendly. Location was convenient, close to the Medina, also some takout options in the area.
  
  What could be improved: The noise from common areas.

• Wonderful calm between the chaos – Keiza from Malaysia – 9 October 2024 (8/10)

  Beautiful property with all the necessities. Hafsa is amazing with a lot of help. We had some misunderstandings about the room and the owner was kind enough to offer us an upgrade to make our stay more comfortable. Absolutely recommend this place.

• Exceptional – Joana from Portugal – 6 May 2024 (10/10)

  The staff member was incredibly friendly and always available to help. He even stayed up late to assist us in getting a taxi to the airport in the early hours. The breakfast was excellent, and the room was very comfortable and beautifully decorated. A pleasant surprise was the magnificent rooftop, perfect for relaxation, as well as the interior terrace filled with beautiful plants. I highly recommend it! A paradise in the historic center of the Medina in Marrakech.

• Excellent Riad in a quiet part of the medina. – Richard from United States – 3 May 2024 (9/10)

  Location was great in a quiet neighborhood just a few turns from an easy route to the main square. Breakfast was standard but tasty and the staff was very accommodating. The rooms are more charming than the pictures show. Free airport pickup was also a great feature.

• A quiet oasis in the middle of the Medina. – Alexandra from Greece – 11 April 2024 (10/10)

  Central location but very quiet Riad. The personal was very helpful and do their best to make our stay comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: All was fine

• Exceptional – Sandra from Germany – 7 April 2024 (10/10)

  The Riad, the owner and the staff were very friendly and forthcoming. They even installed a heater as it started to rain and therefore the temperature dropped significantly. Mohammed even agreed to serve us breakfast earlier than expected. He also helped us to organize secure parking for our rental car. Thank you again for your hospitality.

• Very good – Clara from Denmark – 1 April 2024 (8/10)

  Beautifully decorated and ambiant. Practically located if arriving to Marrakesh by car.

• Exceptional – Tine♡ from United Kingdom – 12 February 2024 (10/10)

  There was a problem with our stay and ended up staying only for 1 night instead of 3, but the owner was kind and provided everything we need to make our stay fabulous. Staffs were really kind and friendly and we enjoyed the food provided. Location is near the main square and the Riad itself is beautiful.
  Thank you Marc and staff!
  
  What could be improved: None

• Great host, very accommodating and welcoming. – Ivana from United Kingdom – 8 February 2024 (10/10)

  Great service and rooms
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Exceptional – Philippa from Italy – 15 December 2023 (10/10)

  Breakfast was great and the location is fantastic. The staff were so helpful and even stayed awake until 2am just to make sure I got the taxi to the airport!
  Will definitely stay here next time we come to Marrakech! excellent value for money and just all round 10/10
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

Surroundings

Facilities