Riad 72

Riad 72 in Marrakech, a Michelin Key Selected property, consistently earns high praise for its exceptional service, tranquil ambiance, and sophisticated design, making it a standout luxury accommodation in the heart of the Old Medina.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

Riad 72 enjoys an overwhelmingly positive sentiment, with guests frequently describing their stays as "exceptional," "splendid," and "luxurious". It holds impressive ratings, including a 19.7 out of 20 for overall experience from verified MICHELIN Guide guests and high scores on booking platforms, such as 9.7 for staff and 9.5 for location on Booking.com. The consensus points to Riad 72 as a tranquil oasis offering an authentic yet refined Marrakech experience.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud Riad 72 for several key aspects:

• Exceptional Service & Staff: The staff are frequently described as "incredible," "most doting," "attentive," and "remarkably accommodating," often going "above and beyond" to ensure a memorable stay.
• Prime Location: Tucked away in the desirable Bab Doukkala neighborhood of the Old Medina, it offers a peaceful retreat while being an easy 10-minute walk from Jemaa El Fna Square and minutes from the main souks.
• Elegant Design: The riad beautifully blends traditional Moroccan architecture with Italian stylistic flair, featuring sophisticated, tasteful, and decidedly retro decor with Art Deco and colonial influences. Its beautiful interior courtyards and serene atmosphere contribute to a "zen ambiance."
• Rooftop Terrace: One of the medina's highest, the rooftop terrace offers 360-degree views of the city and mountains, serving as an ideal spot for breakfast, sunset drinks, or relaxation.
• Wellness Facilities: The elegant wellness center, including a traditional hammam and spa treatments, is highly recommended by guests as a divine experience.

3. Room Quality

Riad 72 features 14 sophisticated rooms and suites, each decorated in a traditional Moroccan style. Guests consistently describe the rooms as "amazing" and "luxurious," with private bathrooms that are equally opulent. All rooms are air-conditioned and include amenities like a safety deposit box and heating, while some boast private patios or terraces. Room types range from Classic Double Rooms to expansive Grand Suites and Junior/Arte Suites with private jacuzzis, catering to different preferences and offering plush king or queen beds. A "Heritage Grand Suite" is particularly noted for its intricately carved wooden ceiling and impressive skylight cupola.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Riad 72 is a significant highlight for many guests:

• Breakfast: Described as "exceptional," "amazing," and "generous," the complimentary breakfast combines Moroccan and Italian ingredients. It's served anywhere guests prefer—in their room, the courtyard, or on the rooftop—and includes a daily changing selection of seasonal fruit salad, organic yogurt, fresh orange juice, Moroccan pastries, fresh bread, cheese, jam, honey, and à la carte options like eggs with bacon and ham. Gluten-free and dairy-intolerance items are also available upon request.
• Dinner: The on-site "La Table du Riad" restaurant is highly acclaimed, serving an elegant and intimate culinary experience focused on seasonal, natural, and traditional Moroccan dishes with a gourmet twist. Signature dishes include tender lamb or beef Tanjia and special hand-rolled couscous, both requiring six hours of preparation. Riad 72 also offers Naama, a "stunning Mediterranean restaurant" which provides additional dining options.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Riad 72 is consistently rated as outstanding. Guests frequently praise the staff for being "incredible," "most doting," "attentive," and "remarkably accommodating." Many reviews highlight their helpfulness in navigating the city and their willingness to go "above and beyond" to ensure a memorable stay. The Italian general manager, Stefania, is often mentioned for her passion and 12 years of experience in ensuring guest satisfaction. The multi-lingual team speaks Arabic, English, Spanish, French, and Italian, facilitating smooth communication. Thoughtful touches like a welcome kit with flowers, fruit, and water, and the provision of a local phone for guests, further enhance the experience.

6. Location & Accessibility

Riad 72 boasts an "excellent" and "great location" in the Old Medina, specifically in the Bab Doukkala neighborhood. This area is considered one of the Medina's best, providing a peaceful and tranquil environment despite its central position. It's conveniently located a mere 10-minute walk from the iconic Jemaa El Fna Square and just a few minutes from the main souks. Popular attractions like the Majorelle Gardens and the YSL Museum are also within a 15-minute walk. Airport transfers can be arranged for an additional fee, offering a hassle-free arrival and departure.

7. Value & Pricing

While Riad 72 offers a luxurious experience, it is generally considered to provide good value for money, reflected in an 8.6 rating on Booking.com and an 8.0 rating on Agoda for value. Agoda describes it as offering "affordable luxury" with an average room rate of approximately $435. Direct bookings show rates starting from around 140.00€ per night for classic rooms, with suites being priced higher, for instance, from 225.00€ per night. The Michelin Key selection further underscores its quality and justifies its pricing for discerning travelers seeking a premium experience.

8. Common Complaints

While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few minor points have been raised by guests:

• Splash Pool vs. Swimming Pool: A recurring criticism concerns the size of the pools. Some guests expecting a traditional swimming pool were disappointed to find them to be "maximum knee height," suitable for cooling off but "no way there was any swimming happening." The property clearly describes them as "splash pools" or "plunge pools," indicating their intended use for cooling rather than extensive swimming.
• Room Layout/Darkness: One guest mentioned a "deluxe room was a little dark and had a very steep set of internal stairs." However, the staff promptly addressed this by moving the guest to another room.
• Dining Options (Initial Perception): One review initially expressed a wish for more dining options, but the property clarified the existence of Naama, their second on-site Mediterranean restaurant, alongside La Table du Riad.
• Adults-Only Policy: It's important for potential guests to note that Riad 72 has an adults-only policy, welcoming guests aged 12 and above.
• Touristic Tax: A Touristic Tax of 33 MAD per person per night is not included in the room rate and is an additional charge.

Sources

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