Morocco, MarrakechJuly 1, 2026, by Isa de Laat

Riad Botanica is where you want to unwind in Marrakech.

romance, Sleeping wing
Morocco, Marrakech, July 1, 2026, by Isa de Laat

Riad Botanica is where you want to unwind in Marrakech.

Oh how we love Marrakech! Provided you do it right. The medina is naturally chaotic, so outside those streets you want to chill in style. There are so many beautiful places to stay in the city, but Riad Botanica stands out. Riad Botanica is an orange blossom-scented oasis surrounding a courtyard with an orange tree, where you will want to book for your next Marrakech trip.

Riad Botanica

Riad Botanica

Riad Botanica is the love story of owners Angela (Angie) and Mohamed Mellak—she Australian, he Moroccan. Love comes together in the maximalist Art Deco design, featuring centuries-old Moroccan craftsmanship. With monochrome tiles and loungers in the courtyard, rooms in emerald green velvet, and wallpaper by Australian design legend Florence Broadhurst. A small pool, the chirping of resident budgies, and soft afro beats in the background complete the picture.

Angela is just about the best local guide you could wish for: she takes you to hidden coffee shops and trendy bookstores, and knows exactly which artisans to visit (and which ones you'd better skip). In the evening, you sit down to hearty tagine and the most delicious eggplant salads. Breakfast (included) is served on the sunny rooftop terrace: Moroccan baghrir pancakes, fresh yogurt, granola, and eggs just the way you like them. You reserve lunch and dinner in advance so that nothing is wasted and everything is made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. They don't serve alcohol, but with the mocktails, fresh juices, and endless mint tea, you won't miss a thing.

In terms of atmosphere, it is a lovely mix: you’ll find solo travelers behind their laptops, couples stretched out by the pool, and families racing between the floors. There are five rooms, each with its own character. The Zahara suite is the largest and, with its bunk beds, ideal for families. It sleeps a maximum of twelve guests in total, so it remains intimate and quiet. Do you want more than just to unwind? There is yoga and Pilates in the courtyard, and the owners can easily arrange a hot air balloon ride at sunrise with a view of the Atlas Mountains.

And that makes Riad Botanica just as much an endpoint as a starting point. You are just a few minutes' walk from the souks, Jemaa el-Fna Square, and the nearest taxi road.

Prices start at around €220 per night (about £190), including breakfast. There is room for a maximum of twelve guests, so book early. Lucky you.

Riad Botanica

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