Riad Dar Elma And Spa

Riad Dar Elma And Spa Overview

You know what struck me first about Riad Dar Elma And Spa? It’s tucked away on this narrow derb in the heart of the medina where you’d never find it unless you knew exactly where to look – which is honestly part of its charm. The taxi dropped me off at the main street and I had to walk through these winding alleys, past locals going about their daily business, before spotting the discreet entrance. It felt like discovering a secret, which I guess is the whole point of a proper riad.

The contrast when you step inside is incredible – I mean, you go from the bustling medina chaos to this serene courtyard with traditional zellige tiles and the sound of water trickling from a fountain. The spa element isn’t just thrown in as an afterthought either; they’ve got this gorgeous hammam that actually feels authentic, not like some hotel trying to capitalize on Moroccan culture. I spent a good hour there after wandering the souks all morning, and honestly, it was exactly what I needed. The rooms wrap around the central courtyard in classic riad style, and mine had these beautiful carved wooden details and textiles that felt genuinely Moroccan without being kitschy. The rooftop terrace – well, that’s where you’ll want to spend your evenings with mint tea, watching the Atlas Mountains change color as the sun sets.

What really makes this place special is how it sits in the medina without making you feel like you’re roughing it. You’re literally a five-minute walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa if you want the full sensory overload, but the riad itself is this peaceful retreat where you can actually get a good night’s sleep (the walls are thick enough to muffle most of the street sounds). The staff knows the neighborhood inside and out – they gave me directions to this tiny spice shop that I never would have found on my own, and steered me toward the better carpet dealers when I mentioned I was looking. It’s that kind of local knowledge that makes the difference between feeling like a tourist and feeling like you’ve got an inside track on the city. The 9.3 rating makes total sense to me because it delivers on what a medina riad should be: authentic, comfortable, and genuinely connected to Marrakech rather than just sitting in it.

Riad Dar Elma And Spa Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Dar Elma And Spa

• Really friendly and helpful staff, lovely rooms and a well needed plunge pool to cool us down – James from United Kingdom – 10 July 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely clean and air conditioned
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Peaceful – Wesal from United Kingdom – 5 July 2025 (10/10)

  It was such a pleasure coming to Morocco for a holiday and booking in this Riad. The cleanliness and beauty of the room was outstanding. The staff were helpful, amazing and everything was perfect. Thank you so much for everything.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Best Girls Trip ever! – Cloda from Switzerland – 29 June 2025 (10/10)

  the staff were really warm and friendly! the rooms were super comfortable and were cleaned everyday!
  
  breakfast was included in our room and we had dinner there as well a few nights, really good food and ambiance!
  
  would definitely come back and do another girls trip!
  
  What could be improved: the space for a spa is a little on the smaller side, but very intimate and relaxing vibe!
  
  we had an amazing time and would really not have changed a thing!

• Comfortable and convenient riad. Very relaxing, excellent breakfast – Wendy from United Kingdom – 28 June 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely Riad, staff were very friendly and helpful. Very quiet and restful but close enough to walk to everywhere we wanted to go. We would definitely stay again and can recommend for any stay in Marrakech
  
  What could be improved: All good

• Lovely riad and amazing people – Deniz from Netherlands – 25 June 2025 (10/10)

  The staff was extremely friendly and helpful. Upon arrival, they welcomed us warmly and showed us on a map where all the sightseeing activities are and what to look out for.
  
  On our last day, we had to leave early, but that was no problem. They made us breakfast at 7 in the morning as per our request. The food is great.
  
  The location is very good; it is in the center of the old city and all sightseeing is within walking distance.

• Exceptional – Carolina from Portugal – 23 June 2025 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect! Great location. Amazing staff. Good food. Would definitely come back.

• Beautiful Tranquil Riad – Freedom from Philippines – 6 June 2025 (10/10)

  The Riad was beautiful and quiet. The room was spacious and clean, and the airconditioning was superb. The staff was great. He helped us carry our luggages — and believe me we have a lot of bulky ones. It was a great stay.
  
  What could be improved: Our stay was perfect. There was nothing that I didn't like.

• Exceptional – Enzo from Germany – 24 May 2025 (10/10)

  We had an incredible time at Riad Dar Elma: the place is lovely with a very unique, cozy feeling, with nice rooms, a pool and a great rooftop.
  The food is amazing and very local, and the Spa treatments are great as well.
  The staff was very attentive, helpful, and supportive, especially Jamal made sure all our requests where met and had complimentary tea ready for us at any occasion.

• Fantastic – Rita from Portugal – 22 May 2025 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect. The host welcomed us with a delicious mint tea and showed us on the map the best places to visit. We had dinner and the food was very delicious. We felt really at home.

• Would recommend to a friend! – Rebel from Canada – 14 May 2025 (8/10)

  Delicious! It was already prepared so as soon as I sat down the staff started bringing everything to me!

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Facilities