Riad Dar Blanche & Spa

Riad Dar Blanche & Spa Overview

You know what caught me off guard about Riad Dar Blanche? The moment you step through that heavy wooden door on Derb Sidi Ahmed Soussi, the chaos of the medina just… disappears. I mean, you’re still hearing the call to prayer from nearby mosques and the occasional donkey cart clattering by, but there’s this immediate sense of calm that hits you. The traditional courtyard setup works exactly like it’s supposed to – cool tiles underfoot, that fountain in the center doing its thing, and these gorgeous zellige patterns that honestly put most Instagram shots to shame.

What really sold me on this place was how the staff seemed to actually know the neighborhood. Not just the obvious tourist spots, but like when I mentioned wanting to find decent leather goods without the hardcore haggling, the guy at reception sent me down a side alley I never would’ve found – turns out his cousin runs a workshop there. The spa is legit too, though I’d recommend booking treatments earlier in the day since they get pretty busy around 4 PM when everyone’s winding down from sightseeing. The hammam experience was everything I hoped for, and the products they use actually smell like argan oil instead of that synthetic stuff you get at some places.

The rooms themselves are beautifully done – mine had this incredible carved ceiling and windows that opened onto the courtyard, though if you’re a light sleeper, maybe ask for something facing away from the main area since there’s definitely some echoing when people are chatting below. Breakfast on the rooftop terrace became my daily ritual, especially because you can see the Atlas Mountains on clear days, and honestly, the mint tea here is some of the best I had in Marrakech. The location in Sidi Benslimane is perfect if you want to be in the medina but not right in the tourist hurricane – you’re maybe a 10-minute walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa, but the streets around the riad have this authentic neighborhood feel where you’ll see kids playing soccer and women heading to the local hammam. Just a heads up though, getting here with luggage can be tricky since the derb is pretty narrow, but they’ll arrange to meet you at the main road if you call ahead.

Riad Dar Blanche & Spa Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Dar Blanche & Spa

• A calm and cool oasis – Phoebe from United Kingdom – 3 July 2025 (8/10)

  Beautiful building and interiors, a cool and calm space to come back to after the chaos of the medina!
  The staff were exceptional, teaching us about the city and where to enjoy.
  Excellent value for money!
  
  What could be improved: The upstairs pool area was in the process of some repairs so there was limited access, but not too much of a problem!

• Exceptional – Jessica from Ireland – 28 June 2025 (10/10)

  Excellent staff
  Great location
  Clean

• Superb – Luísa from Portugal – 14 June 2025 (9/10)

  The Riad was lovely and the breakfast was amazing! The staff is super helpful.
  
  What could be improved: We only had an issue with the hot water which had to be fixed everyday.

• Beautiful stay – Neelam from United Kingdom – 10 June 2025 (9/10)

  The decor was beautiful, check-in was smooth and the host gave us details of where to visit and how to get around. They also helped us book a few things. The breakfast was really good, nicely prepared and very filling. A great location from the souks and the streets the Riad was on was very quiet so had no noise issues.
  
  What could be improved: We had a couple hours where electric was limited but I think normal in the area. It was quickly resolved

• Very good – Kajal from United States – 4 June 2025 (8/10)

  The staff where all great. The only issue we had was room 8, which had cold water throughout our entire stay.
  
  What could be improved: The location and breakfast and room space was excellent.

• Exceptional – Aline from Brazil – 3 June 2025 (10/10)

  We loved our stay! The pool is not that hot but it was fine. The hotel is beautiful and the room was really comfy.

• Very good – Kamran from United Kingdom – 31 May 2025 (8/10)

  Great network of staff. A social enterprise supporting local people to work in the hospitality sector. Everyone was wonderful and helpful. Breakfast for me was good but could be better.
  
  What could be improved: I wish the water was hot enough to shower without contacting the staff to put the boiler on.

• Exceptional – Nathalie from Switzerland – 25 May 2025 (10/10)

  The design and the staff
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• I was staying only for one night but i would come back! I had dinner here and after two weeks in Marrakech i can say tha – Philipp from Italy – 24 May 2025 (10/10)

  Very good location and kind staff!

• Superb – Gillian from United Kingdom – 24 May 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely and clean
  
  What could be improved: The men/boy in the alley telling us that property was further down the alley then “helping us” find entrance that we had passed. Then demanding money

Surroundings

Facilities