Riad 144

Riad 144 in Marrakech, a distinguished Michelin Key Selected property, consistently earns high praise from guests for its captivating blend of traditional Moroccan charm and luxurious, attentive service. It stands out as an oasis of calm amidst the vibrant bustle of the Medina.

Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Riad 144 is overwhelmingly positive, with numerous guests describing their stays as "wonderful," "perfect," and "exceptional." Review scores on platforms like Booking.com frequently reach 9.0 and 10 out of 10, indicating a high level of guest satisfaction. The sentiment is one of deep appreciation for the tranquil atmosphere and the personalized, warm welcome extended by the staff.

Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of Riad 144, creating a truly memorable experience:

• Service & Hospitality: The attentive and friendly staff, particularly individuals like Abdallah and Ahmed, are frequently highlighted for their exceptional hospitality, making guests feel like royalty. They are noted for being discreet yet attentive, often anticipating needs and offering refreshing mint tea or cold drinks upon return from excursions.
• Design & Ambiance: The riad's aesthetic is a major draw, described as "beautiful," "charming," and like "stepping into paradise." It offers a dramatic and intense yet traditional Moroccan design, featuring tadelakt walls and moucharabieh elements, creating a strong contrast to the city's intensity. Shared lounges, two patios, and three rooftop terraces provide ample space for relaxation.
• Rooftop Terrace: The rooftop terrace is a particular favorite, offering stunning 360-degree views perfect for enjoying sunsets, relaxing in the sun, and receiving complimentary mint tea and nibbles.
• Amenities: The riad provides a range of amenities including an outdoor plunge pool, a hammam, a spa with massage services, and a fitness room. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.

Room Quality

Riad 144 offers eight unique suites and rooms, some of which can be combined. Each is individually decorated, with styles ranging from "dark and moody" to "bright and sunny." Guests describe the rooms as beautifully decorated, very comfortable, and exceptionally clean, with comfy beds. Some rooms feature a seating area, balcony or patio, and private bathrooms equipped with hairdryers and complimentary toiletries. Specific room types mentioned include the Secret Suite (suitable for families), Carbon Room with tadelakt walls, and the Zellij Room designed with purity and brightness. Amenities like flat-screen TVs, DVD/CD players, satellite channels, and air conditioning are standard.

Dining Experience

The dining experience at Riad 144 receives high praise, with guests often choosing to eat dinner at the riad every night. The food is consistently described as excellent and among the best tasted in Marrakech, offering house-made traditional Moroccan cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast, often served on the rooftop terrace, is particularly enjoyed.

Service & Staff

The service and staff are frequently cited as one of the riad's strongest assets. Guests consistently highlight the immense kindness, helpfulness, and attentiveness of the entire team. The staff are noted for being warm, friendly, and discreet, going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. Services like concierge and babysitting are available upon request.

Location & Accessibility

Riad 144 is strategically located in the Sidi Ben Slimane district, just north of the souk in the heart of Marrakech's historic Medina. While navigating the winding alleys to reach the riad might feel like a quintessential "am I lost?" Medina experience, guests find it to be a perfect, quiet, and cozy location once inside. It's conveniently situated within walking distance of popular attractions such as the souks (10 minutes), Jemaa el-Fna square (a scenic 25-minute walk through the souks), Koutoubia Mosque (500 meters), and Majorelle Garden. Private luxury airport transfers are also offered.

Value & Pricing

While specific price ranges are not explicitly detailed in the reviews, the overall sentiment suggests that guests find Riad 144 to offer excellent value. Many consider it worth the cost due to the exceptional service, beautiful setting, and comprehensive amenities. The experience is often compared favorably to luxury hotels. Direct booking packages may include complimentary airport pickup, hammam sessions or massages, and a romantic rooftop dinner.

Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, a few minor recurring issues have been mentioned by guests:

• Shower Pressure: Some guests have noted that the shower pressure could be better, though this is sometimes acknowledged as a potential general issue within the Medina.
• WiFi Strength: A few reviews mentioned that the WiFi can be a little weak.
• Plunge Pool vs. Swimming Pool: The "pool" is more accurately described as a plunge pool rather than a full swimming pool, which some guests noted, although most did not find this to be a significant detraction.

Sources

1. booking.com
2. michelin.com
3. booking.com
4. riad144.com
5. expedia.com
6. riad144.com
7. riad144.com