Riyad Lion Rouge

Riyad Lion Rouge Overview

Look, I’ve stayed in quite a few riads in Marrakech, and honestly, Riyad Lion Rouge just gets it right in a way that surprised me. When you’re wandering through the narrow alleys of Rahba Lakdima – you know, that old spice square where the scent of cinnamon and cumin sort of follows you around – you’d never guess that behind this unassuming wooden door on Derb Nkhal sits something this thoughtfully put together. The thing about medina hotels is they’re hit or miss with the whole “authentic but comfortable” balance, but this place actually nails it without trying too hard.

What struck me first was how quiet it gets once you step inside. I mean, you’re literally a two-minute walk from the chaos of Jemaa el-Fnaa (you can hear the drums faintly if you listen hard from the rooftop), but the courtyard has this almost library-like calm that makes you forget you’re in the middle of one of Morocco’s busiest neighborhoods. The rooms – well, they’re what you’d expect from a well-run 4-star riad, but there’s attention to detail that shows someone actually cares. The tadelakt walls have that smooth, almost marble-like finish that takes forever to do properly, and honestly, the beds are way more comfortable than they have any right to be in a traditional building like this. I was worried about noise from the street, but the thick walls do their job – though you’ll still get the call to prayer at dawn, which is actually kind of beautiful once you get used to it.

Here’s what I really appreciated though – the staff knows the medina like the back of their hand, and they’ll give you directions that actually make sense instead of just pointing vaguely toward the main square. They helped me find this tiny workshop where a guy repairs traditional instruments (down some alley I never would’ve discovered), and when I got completely turned around trying to find the Saadian Tombs, they walked me halfway there instead of just drawing a useless map. The breakfast spread is solid too – proper Moroccan bread, local honey, fresh orange juice that tastes like sunshine, and strong coffee that’ll wake you up for a full day of exploring. Sure, it’s not the fanciest place in the medina, and the WiFi gets a bit spotty in some corners, but you’re not here to work anyway, right? For the price and location, especially if you actually want to experience the medina instead of just staying in some resort bubble, this place delivers without the pretense.

Riyad Lion Rouge Accommodations

Reviews of Riyad Lion Rouge

• Beautiful Riad in the heart of Marrakech – Shriya from India – 27 May 2025 (8/10)

  I loved the setup, cleanliness, and decor of the property. Very well thought out by Helmut and Manuela. Samira, who helped us throughout our stay was very friendly and made sure to keep up with our requests. The location of the Riad was also pretty interesting- in the by-lanes of Jemaa el Fnaa.
  
  What could be improved: The choice in the breakfast could be more and include more dishes.

• The Riyad Lion is an excellent value and we will definitely go back! – Dan from United States – 8 May 2025 (10/10)

  The Riyad Lion is a charming combination of old world Marrakech and clean facilities. The Riyad staff were very courteous and helpful. The food was excellent.
  
  What could be improved: I can’t think of anything.

• Our stay at the Riyad Lion Rouge could not have been more perfect! – Flora from United Kingdom – 6 May 2025 (10/10)

  The staff are so lovely and go above and beyond to make your stay perfection. The Riyad itself is absolutely gorgeous, and while it's in the heart of the Medina it is tucked away on a side street and is a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle. It is immaculately thought out, and there are thoughtful special touches throughout, we thought it was even more beautiful than the photos online. The breakfast is absolutely delicious, and the terrace to eat at is gorgeous. We would absolutely come back here, and truly had an amazing stay! Thank you so much for being such wonderful hosts!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing at all! Couldn't fault anything!

• Amazing! – Analia from Spain – 6 May 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful place, nice terrace and the rooms were very nicely done with all details taken care of. The staff was AMAZING! There is no other way to describe it! Super helpful with everything and accommodating!
  
  What could be improved: It would be nice if they could have a vegetable milk (soya, oat or something like that).

• Staff ensured the stay was comfortable and relaxing. Excellent choice. – Peter from Canada – 1 May 2025 (10/10)

  All the charm of a Riad, but also well maintained with modern facilities that did not detract from the traditional charm.. Staff was great
  
  What could be improved: Like most Riads in the Medina, It would be hard to find on your own, but the staff met us at a central location and brought us to the location.

• Beautiful place and welcoming staff! – Ron from United Kingdom – 26 April 2025 (10/10)

  What a beautiful place and wonderful staff to welcome us and also take care of everything we needed. The breakfast was to die for! The place is stylish and beautifully decorated. Highly recommended!!

• Incredible and a home away from home! Will be back again! – Katsimpalis from United States – 22 April 2025 (10/10)

  We stayed here in mid-April 2025 to celebrate my girlfriend’s birthday, and everything was truly wonderful. The location is fantastic, and the service was impeccable. The rooms were beautifully styled and spacious. Breakfast was delicious and different each morning, which was a lovely touch. They even provide complimentary local slippers. The staff was always available to arrange taxis, offer advice, and help personalize our stay—we used their trusted driver for airport pickup and also for our journey to Casablanca, and felt completely safe throughout.
  
  The women who run the riyad are incredible, and communication was excellent—especially in French. The highlight was the care and effort they put into creating an unforgettable birthday. Breakfast came with a bouquet from the hotel and a trail of rose petals leading to the terrace, and they surprised us with a homemade chocolate cake. My girlfriend’s family also arranged a special surprise through the riyad, and when we returned from breakfast, they had decorated the bed beautifully with petals. It was romantic, thoughtful, and my girlfriend was over the moon.
  
  It truly felt like staying with family—we even shared hugs when we left. We’ll absolutely miss this riyad. Thank you to everyone for making this such a memorable and special experience.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing! Amazing experience!

• Highly recommend to stay in this amazing Riad – Mona from Kuwait – 21 April 2025 (10/10)

  Best location

• Must stay if you come to Marraquexe – Pedro from Portugal – 15 April 2025 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect and the team was great, friendly and helpful. Every time I return to Marraquexe, I will stay here. Good for a couple, but without kids. You will surprise after you cross the door.

• Nice stay – Raluca from Romania – 9 April 2025 (9/10)

  We loved the peace and quiet inside the riyad, the kind and attentive staff, and most of all that we had the entire place all for ourselves for a few days.
  Would have been nice for the pool to be heated, and for the breakfast hours to be more flexible, but other than that, everything was great.

Surroundings

Facilities