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An oasis in the bustling medina, this 10th-century noble residence features a rooftop terrace, courtyard and swimming pool
Place
Riad Botanica is located in the city center Marrakechof medina. Located in one of the walled city’s iconic winding alleys, its unassuming green gate reveals a beautiful courtyard centered around an orange tree. The hotel is just steps away from the vibrant maze of souks, close to the lively Jemaa el-Fnaasquare, Bacha Coffee (a luxury café that takes you back to 1910) and the peaceful Jardin Secret (a sensual escape from the markets).
Popular dining and rooftop attractions such as Le Jardin, El Fenn and Nomad are less than 20 minutes away, while historical monuments such as the Ben Youssef Mosque, Dar El Bacha Museum and Bahia Palace are just a stone’s throw away. this Riad The nearest taxi road is only a 4 minute walk away.
Read more: The best riads in Marrakech for enjoying the winter sunshine
atmosphere
Angela Mellak and Mohamed Mellak are an Australian-Moroccan couple who have lovingly transformed Riad Botanica.
The courtyard is the heart of the hotel and features a small swimming pool, shaded by trees and a beautiful and airy atmosphere. It’s a shady, private and peaceful daytime retreat, with monochromatic tones running through the rattan seating, striped lounge chairs and a mosaic tiled floor with a star and cross pattern meant to represent the harmony between Islam and Christianity (a nod to Marrakech’s mixed cultural heritage).
Features such as ornate cedar doors reflect local craftsmanship. Every detail has been carefully considered, whether it’s the botanical-inspired color palette in each of the five rooms or the Moroccan-inspired Art Deco wallpaper by Australian designer Florence Broadhurst.
Due to the low guest capacity, the atmosphere in the public areas is calm. The small rooftop bar has a shaded seating area where breakfast, lunch and dinner are served, and there are cushioned beds for sunbathing. You’ll find groups of nomadic soloists tapping away on their laptops, couples stretching out on lounge chairs, and families by the pool.
Serve
There are only seven employees in the hotel, and the service feels caring and attentive. Front desk staff are warm and welcoming without coming across as overbearing – esp. Given the small size of the common areas.
The owners are frequently in and around the hotel and are insightful and knowledgeable tour guides in the area – it’s well worth asking them for advice. Without them, I never would have known to go to TikTok’s popular cafe Bacha at 3pm to avoid the crowds. Plus, Angela has lots of advice on the best places to shop for artisans (and which places to avoid).
bed and bath
Riad Botanica has five rooms. Each room is unique, blending vibrant Moroccan design with laid-back Australian and European details. Each room has a unique Moroccan-inspired wallpaper, each varying in size and tone.
Zahara, the largest suite, is located on the first floor and features a second bedroom with two adult-sized bunk beds. Characterized by its perfect Juliet windows overlooking the orange trees and courtyard, it also has a living area with sofa and kitchenette. The “Rose Beldi” and “Orange Blossom” rooms are also spacious enough for longer stays. Toiletries from local sources Marrakech The Natus branding is a nice touch. Hanging lamps, Berber rugs and leather cushions were sourced directly from the souk.
Read more: I found the best hotels in Marrakech for 2026
food and drink
Breakfast is included in the price and is served on the sunlit rooftop. The three-course set menu is light and fresh, ranging from homemade granola, yoghurt and fresh fruit to Moroccan bagel pancakes with jam and whipped cream. Hearty eggs, prepared any way you like with a Moroccan twist Hacha and all accompaniments.
Lunch and dinner must be booked in advance to reduce waste, as the hotel’s food is sourced locally from seasonal produce. Expect classic Moroccan favorites like eggplant or lentil salads, hummus and rich slow-cooked tagines (try the vibrant veggies or traditional chicken and beef). While the menu caters to a variety of tastes, Caesar salads and club sandwiches are also featured.
The riad does not serve alcoholic beverages but does offer refreshing mocktails, fresh juices, tea and coffee.
facility
The riad’s small swimming pool is lined with cushioned sunbeds for when you want to relax during your trip. Although there is no heating, it is a great place to relax in the summer. Riad Botanica doesn’t have extras like a hammam spa or gym, but instead offers experiences designed to connect you more deeply with Marrakech. Monthly “Storytelling” dinners allow you to dine under the stars while appreciating Morocco’s rich oral heritage. The riad’s resident storyteller, a local woman who follows a male-dominated tradition, makes centuries-old stories fresh and relevant, keeping diners hooked on every word.
Yoga and Pilates classes are held in the courtyard, sunrise hot air balloon rides can be arranged facing the Atlas Mountains, and a coffee tour will take you to Bacha Coffee to experience its extensive selection of blends in a magnificent Art Deco setting.
The “Muse Shopping Tour” takes you deep into the souks, and guests will benefit from a guide to the labyrinth of the inner market. From workshops frequented only by locals to hidden flea markets and food trucks, this tour will have you walking away with loot like jewelry, hand-painted plates, and intricate ceramics.
Read more: Where to go on holiday in Morocco: from Marrakech to Fes
Accessibility
Riad Botanica has two rooms for disabled guests. Both rooms are located on the ground floor and offer wheelchair access, accessible bathrooms (roll-in showers and supportive grab bars), and adjustable bed layouts. There is wheelchair accessible seating next to the plunge pool in the courtyard and level access from the street. Breakfast and dinner can also be served on the patio.
pet policy
Riad Botanica does not accept dogs unless the entire Riad is fully booked.
Check-in/check-out?
Check-in is from 2pm (you can check in earlier if your room is ready), check-out is at 11am.
Is it family friendly?
The Zahara room has a double bed and two family-friendly adult bunk beds. Food for breakfast, lunch and dinner can also be kid-friendly.
clear at a glance
The best thing: Gorgeous design details and a great location.
Great for: Solo travelers and travelers looking for unique experiences.
Not suitable for: Large groups.
Instagram via: The second-floor mezzanine overlooks the Juliet windows and orange trees.
address: 78 Deb Rahson Rahson, guard
Telephone: +212 701-191951
website: riadbotanica.com
Read more: Meet the women who blazed a trail through Morocco’s majestic mountains
Daisy checked in as a guest of Riad Botanica.