Dar Housnia

 
At Dar Housnia, you feel like you are staying with a Moroccan family in their riad. The riad is outside of the central part of the medina with its busy souk catering to tourists. While there are a few other riads near by, and certainly a lot to keep a tourist entertained, the neighbourhood is more a local one with markets and fruit stalls, and even a communal oven around the corner. You’re still a short walk to all the medina highlights.

With just six rooms, Dar Housnia has an intimate feel. You can book just one room, or any combination. The family suite — on several levels with a large living room, two bedrooms, and a private rooftop terrace — is particularly elegant. There are no locks on the doors (you are given a key for a small safe) and there are almost always people in the kitchen making delicious things. French is spoken much more than English.

The riad has a heated rooftop swimming pool, two decks for lounging, two covered sitting areas and a dining room (with fireplace) just off the central courtyard. There is also a massage room and small hammam should you wish to stay close for your scrub.

Each room, of course, is different from the next. Some have sunken bathtubs, some beautiful old-style rain showers. Red is a predominant theme with cushions and throw rugs brightening the otherwise pale rooms. Linens at Dar Housnia are wonderful, silky soft monogrammed cottons for your (very) firm bed.

There are heaters for the colder months, as well as a ceiling fan for when it gets hot. There’s no air conditioning, but the walls are so thick I think it would take a while for the heat to penetrate.

Breakfast is different every day and left for the time you request, either in the dining room or on the rooftop terrace. Don’t be late or your coffee might get cold!