Riad Due

Riad Due in Marrakech, a Michelin Key One-Keys property, consistently receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, lauded as an exquisite and serene sanctuary amidst the vibrant energy of the Medina. Guests frequently describe their stay as exceptional, highlighting the personalized service, elegant design, and superb location.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

Riad Due garners an "exceptional" rating from guests, with an impressive score of 9.7 on Booking.com and a 19.6 for Overall Experience from verified MICHELIN Guide guests. The general sentiment is one of delight and satisfaction, with visitors often describing their experience as "fantastic," "gorgeous," and exceeding expectations. Many express a strong desire to return, wishing they could have extended their stay.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently praise several aspects of Riad Due:

• Service & Staff: The hospitality is frequently described as "amazing," "lovely," "brilliant," "kind, and attentive." Staff members like Elena (the host), Khaled, Muhammad, and Richid are specifically commended for their attentiveness, helpfulness with recommendations, and going "out of their way to make you feel at home."
• Design & Ambiance: The riad's decor is a major draw, characterized as "beautifully decorated," "chic," "stylish," and "serene." It offers an "oasis of calm" from the bustling souks, blending modern sophistication with traditional Moroccan heritage. The property features original works from local and international artists, high ceilings, and a tasteful, non-kitschy aesthetic.
• Location: Its location is deemed "perfect right in the heart of the action of the Medina." It's conveniently "just steps away from the bustling souks and historic landmarks," including a "short walk from Le Jardin Secret and close to Djemaa El Fna."
• Amenities: The riad boasts a serene garden, a spacious and "outstanding" rooftop terrace, and a deep-sea blue plunge pool in the courtyard, ideal for cooling off. Guests benefit from air-conditioning, free WiFi throughout the property, and private bathrooms equipped with bathrobes and complimentary toiletries. In-room spa treatments, including massages and hammam treatments, are available on the roof terrace.

3. Room Quality

Riad Due offers an intimate experience with just four "exceedingly stylish little suites," each providing a luxurious and private retreat. The rooms are "beautifully decorated and very comfortable," with each possessing its "own unique character" and "eclectic style," furnished with a mix of Moroccan and foreign antiques.

Specific room highlights include:

• Suite Zan: Features a hand-carved copper bathtub, a sprawling chaise longue, and oversized lanterns.
• Suite Abdel: Offers a carved wooden ceiling, blue-black marble floor, and a bathroom with a choice between a marble tub and a walk-in shower open to the sky.
• Junior Suite Samir: Known for its "floating" bed, a fireplace, and an oversized bathroom with two walk-in showers and a built-in marble bathtub.
• Deluxe Room Kamal: Described as cozy, with a sculptured plaster ceiling and a contemporary fireplace.

All rooms come with air-conditioning, and some feature balconies with garden or pool views.

4. Dining Experience

The dining at Riad Due is highly praised, particularly the "great breakfast," which is often highlighted as a memorable start to the day. The "Moroccan breakfast" includes freshly squeezed orange juice and a delightful assortment of freshly made galettes, baguettes, English muffins, pancakes, and French toast. Continental and gluten-free options are also available.

Chef Fatouma (also referred to as Atika) is celebrated for serving "dynamite tagine, pastilla, couscous and other Moroccan marvels," with the capability to prepare European cuisine as well. Guests have enjoyed private dining experiences, describing them as "the best banquet" of their trip, with meals served in the serene courtyard or on the panoramic roof terrace. The riad also offers cooking classes with Chef Atika for those interested in learning Moroccan delicacies.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Riad Due is consistently rated as "exceptional" and a standout feature. The staff, including the host Elena and team members like Khaled and Muhammad, are "welcoming, attentive and above all, hospitable." They are commended for providing "excellent service support" and going "out of their way to make you feel at home," ensuring guests feel "treated" throughout their stay. Many appreciate the "fantastic recommendations and advice for navigating the labyrinth of the souks" and their assistance with planning day trips and transportation. The riad also offers multilingual staff, private check-in/check-out, and concierge services.

6. Location & Accessibility

Riad Due boasts a "perfect location right in the heart of the action of the Medina," offering a balance of urban excitement and serene privacy. It's conveniently situated "just steps away from the bustling souks and historic landmarks," including Le Jardin Secret and Djemaa El Fna. Other nearby attractions include the Orientalist Museum and Bahia Palace.

The riad is approximately 3.1 to 3.3 miles (5 to 5.3 km) from Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK), with a paid airport shuttle service available. While navigating the Medina's narrow alleys is part of the Marrakech experience, the riad itself is described as an "oasis of calm." Parking is available nearby for a fee. One guest noted choosing the riad due to its accessible bathrooms and a lift, suggesting features for those with mobility issues.

7. Value & Pricing

Guests frequently rate Riad Due highly for "Value for money." While considered a luxurious retreat, prices for a double room typically range around €258 to €296.80 or $304. The rates generally include a Moroccan breakfast and afternoon tea. It's important to note that a two-night minimum stay requirement is in place. Given the high level of personalized service, exquisite design, and prime location, guests generally find it to be a worthwhile investment for an unforgettable experience.

8. Common Complaints

Finding recurring complaints for Riad Due is challenging, as reviews are overwhelmingly positive. The property is consistently praised for exceeding expectations. While a general characteristic of riads within the bustling Medina can sometimes be noise or the need to carry luggage through narrow streets, Riad Due is repeatedly described as an "oasis of calm" and "peaceful" within its walls. Any minor inconveniences associated with staying in a traditional riad in the heart of the old city seem to be thoroughly outweighed by the exceptional experience offered by Riad Due.

Sources

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