Riad El Arsat & Spa

Riad El Arsat & Spa Overview

Look, I’ve stayed in plenty of riads in Marrakech, and honestly? Most of them feel like they’re trying too hard to be Instagram-perfect. Riad El Arsat is different though – it’s tucked away on this narrow little street called Derb Chemaa, deep enough in the medina that you actually feel like you’ve escaped the chaos, but not so far that you’re lost forever trying to find your way back to Jemaa el-Fnaa.

The thing that got me right away was how quiet it is once you step through that heavy wooden door. I mean, you’re still hearing the call to prayer and the occasional motorbike somehow navigating these impossibly narrow alleys, but it’s muffled, you know? The courtyard has this fountain that’s actually soothing instead of annoyingly loud, and the orange trees smell incredible in the evening – though fair warning, if you’re there during orange season, you might find a few fallen ones on the ground in the morning. The rooms are what you’d expect from a proper riad – thick walls that keep things cool, beautiful tilework, and beds that are actually comfortable (not always a given in these traditional places). Their spa is small but really well done; I had a hammam treatment that left me feeling like I’d been scrubbed clean by angels, and the massage therapist knew exactly where I’d been carrying all that travel tension.

What I really appreciated was how the staff handled the whole “lost tourist in the medina” situation. They’ll walk you out to the main street the first time – and trust me, you’ll need it because these addresses mean nothing until you learn the landmarks. Once you get the hang of it, you’re about a seven-minute walk from the souks, maybe ten to the main square depending on how much you get distracted by the leather workers and spice vendors along the way. The breakfast is served on the rooftop terrace, and while everyone talks about those Atlas Mountain views, what I loved was watching the medina wake up – hearing the bread vendors calling out, seeing the smoke from tagines starting to curl up from neighboring houses. Just keep in mind that Marrakech can get pretty intense during peak season, so if you’re there in March or April, book the spa treatments early because they fill up fast. The whole place has this genuine, lived-in feeling that makes you want to settle in with a book and some mint tea instead of rushing around checking things off your tourist list.

Riad El Arsat & Spa Accommodations

Reviews of Riad El Arsat & Spa

• Some try few succeed, this place is a sanctuary. – Graham from United Kingdom – 16 April 2025 (10/10)

  Our appearance in Marrakech was met by a storm, mix Marrakech with any storm a combination I wouldn’t wish again.
  Out of the darkness shone a light a bright and fierce light, a Riad the likes of which dreams await
  Mr Charles or Charles Arbousset to the unfamiliar awaited with a crew whose existence is the embodiment of service which is rarely achieved.
  Salma & Abdeljalil lieutenants of our host complimented the establishment beyond measure. Their commitment to their craft is palpable and it’s to be nurtured.
  The place is an oasis to be savoured before such a place is no longer exists.
  Spend time there, experience what this place is was is going on to be.
  Pass by this place and your loss is another’s gift.
  We consider these friends in an outpost far from home a home from home what more is there?

• Exceptional – Hovorka from United States – 11 April 2025 (10/10)

  Authentic. Beautiful garden. Oasis. Charles and his team are awesome

• Excellent stay in the center of the Medina in Marrakech – Andreas from Switzerland – 7 April 2025 (10/10)

  The owner Charles and his Riad friendly staff exceeded our expectations. A short holiday with all wishes fulfilled.

• A wonderful – Victoria from United Kingdom – 24 March 2025 (10/10)

  This is an exceptional place , run by the magnificent Charles who makes you feel as if you are the only guest staying there. Nothing is too much trouble for him or for his wonderful staff. It’s a really special Riad that feels so homely and full of love but offers a very high quality stay in all regards. The nine rooms are full of character and the internal gardens are lush and a welcome oasis from the bustling Medina. The food is lovely, the beds are super comfy, there’s a great pool and it’s really well located. To finish our stay, we had a hammam bath treatment and massage on site, which was fabulous. We really didn’t want to leave after our two night stay. I can’t recommend this place highly enough.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. It was the perfect choice for a stay in the Medina.

• A tranquil place – Ahmad from Spain – 22 March 2025 (10/10)

  A very tranquil setting and very helpful manager and the staff.
  
  What could be improved: A bigger bathroom

• Fantastic experience – Ml from Italy – 20 March 2025 (10/10)

  Upon our arrival, we were first greeted by Agnes Arbousset, as her brother was temporarily out of town. She extended a warm welcome, offering us a delightful cup of mint tea and homemade biscuits while she organized the necessary paperwork prior to escorting us to our accommodations. A few days later, Charles Arbousset, Agnes' brother, returned, and together they continued to provide exemplary care during our stay. The entire staff at el Arsat is courteous and attentive, significantly contributing to an unforgettable experience.
  At our next opportunity, we should consider visiting Mirleft, located south of Agadir, to experience their hospitality along the coastline.
  
  What could be improved: We encountered some minor deficiencies, such as the availability of toilet paper, shower gel, and shampoo; however, the staff consistently addressed these issues promptly and with a positive demeanor. This situation may serve as an opportunity to cultivate rapport among guests, fostering a pleasant environment and allowing for the exchange of courteous interactions.

• Beautiful peaceful oasis in the heart of the Medina – Lucy from United Kingdom – 23 February 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. The loveliest garden in the Medina. Great pool. Stunning views of the Atlas mountains from the pergola on the roof terrace. Staff were charming and helpful and nothing was too much trouble.

• Beautiful Riad, Fabulous service and Great Attention to detail – Craig from Bulgaria – 22 February 2025 (10/10)

  Fabulous atmosphere
  Fantastic service
  Cosy and great attention to detail
  Authentic
  
  We had a wonderful stay
  
  Peaceful property away from hustle and bustle
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• Lovely hotel with warm, welcoming owners and staff in a great location for seeing the city and its attractions. – Stoakes from United Kingdom – 21 February 2025 (10/10)

  We were very pleased with our choice of hotel and location. Delightful, authentic hotel, totally quiet, tucked away in a large private garden with lots of trees, many places for relaxing and catching sun and shade in the garden and at upper levels. High standard of interior furnishing including a beautiful dining room. Excellent location in the Medina only a short walk from the main square and the souk and other attractions. Hotel owners and staff very welcoming and helpful especially with advice for us about where to go and getting us dependable taxis.
  
  What could be improved: We liked everything about it.

• A gorgeous way to visit Marrakech with old world style and comfort. – Tom from Ireland – 1 January 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely garden and rooms in heart of the Medina, an oasis in the hustle of the city. Minutes from the main souk. Friendly staff. Good food.

Surroundings

Facilities