Uncover Marrakech's Hidden Gem: The Secret of Riad Kerdouss
Uncover Marrakech's Hidden Gem: The Secret of Riad Kerdouss
Uncover Marrakech's Hidden Gem: The Secret of Riad Kerdouss - A Review That's Actually Real (and Obsessively Detailed!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the mint tea on Riad Kerdouss. Forget those airbrushed travel blog reviews – this is the real deal. I’ve spent a week there, and let me tell you, it’s a rollercoaster of oohs and aahs with a few "huh?" moments thrown in for good measure. This isn't just a stay; it's an experience, a dive into the heart of Marrakech, and I’m going to tell you everything, the good, the slightly-less-good, and the downright amazing.
(Disclaimer: I might ramble. I'm prone to it. Grab a tagine and settle in.)
First Impressions & The Getting There Game:
So, Marrakech. It's sensory overload from the second you step off the plane. The heat, the smells (incense, spices, exhaust fumes – a beautiful, chaotic symphony!), the vibrant colours. Getting to Riad Kerdouss? Well, they offer airport transfer – definitely a must. Imagine trying to navigate the medina with your luggage in tow after that long flight… no thanks! The taxi service is, of course, available as an alternative, but let's be honest, after the flight, the hassle isn't worth it. They also have car park [on-site] and valet parking, which is a great plus if you're crazy enough to rent a car in Marrakech (seriously, I saw things…).
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (But Still Pretty Good!)
Let's talk accessibility. This is crucial for a lot of people, and here's the honest truth: Riad Kerdouss isn’t perfectly designed for everyone. While they boast facilities for disabled guests and an elevator, the medina itself is a maze of narrow alleyways and uneven surfaces. The elevator is, well, it's there! It's good to know you have an option. But if you have serious mobility issues, double-check before booking - the exterior corridor is also a plus.
The Rooms: Your Oasis of Calm (Mostly)
Right, the rooms. Mine – and from what I saw, most of them – were just gorgeous. They've got everything you could possibly need: Air conditioning, which is a godsend, Air conditioning in public area, which includes the Restaurant and lobby. Complimentary tea, free bottled water, a coffee/tea maker in the room, a safe, because the medina can be a bit… lively. The bathroom was lovely, with a bathtub and separate shower/bathtub. Plus, fluffy bathrobes and slippers. Bonus points: daily housekeeping kept everything spotless. The linens felt luxurious, and the bed was… well, it was good! Okay, the truth? It was a really good bed. I slept like a well-fed cat. The blackout curtains were absolute bliss for those early morning sunrises.
Internet – Because Let's Face It, We're All Addicted
Okay, internet. This is essential. They have free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yes, you read that right. All rooms. Praise be! They also offer Internet [LAN], in case you need a more stable connection. Internet services are also available, and Wi-Fi in public areas too. Let's face it, we all need to Instagram our tagine.
(Rant incoming): The Wi-Fi in my room was spotty at times! I swear, I stared at that loading icon for longer than I care to admit. It was frustrating when I wanted to upload a video or catch up on emails. But, hey, you're in Marrakech! Put your phone down! (easier said than done, I know)
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Feasting Like a Sultan (Mostly)
The food! Oh, the food! Riad Kerdouss nails it. And that's where things get really interesting.
- Breakfast [buffet]: Absolutely the best way to start the day. They have a buffet in restaurant with everything from fresh pastries and Moroccan pancakes to eggs and cheese. It's an Asian breakfast and Western breakfast mix, too – something for everyone.
- Restaurants:
- A la carte in restaurant: A delight!
- International cuisine in restaurant: Amazing!
- Vegetarian restaurant: Yesss!
- Soup in restaurant: Perfect for a chilly evening.
- Room service [24-hour]: Because sometimes, you just want a tagine in your pyjamas.
- Poolside bar: Perfect for a cocktail while you soak in the sun.
- Coffee shop: I'm not sure if this means the main restaurant but you can always get Coffee/tea in restaurant
I got REALLY in love with the Asian cuisine in restaurant! The options are just astonishing, the food's delicious. I've never felt so at home.
(Anecdote alert!) One night, I ordered room service, and while I was waiting, they sent the chef! The chef! to my room to check my order -- I was in awe! He wanted to make sure it was perfect. That's service.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Your Personal Paradise
This is where Riad Kerdouss truly shines. They have EVERYTHNG.
- Swimming pool [outdoor] and a Pool with a view
- Spa: This is a must. The Spa/sauna is a divine experience.
- Massage: Need I say more? Book it. Book it now!
- Sauna and Steamroom: Just a perfect way to unwind.
- Body scrub and Body wrap: Treat yourself, you deserve it!
- Gym/fitness: If you feel the need to work off all that delicious food.
- Foot bath, perfect to wash away street dust
- For The Kids and Babysitting service
(Confession Time): I spent an embarrassing amount of time lounging by the pool. The Poolside bar didn’t help my productivity, but who cares? The massage! Oh, the massage! I swear, I melted into a puddle of pure relaxation. It was the best massage I've ever had, and yes, I said it.
Cleanliness and Safety: Peace of Mind
In today’s world, safety is paramount, and Riad Kerdouss takes it seriously. They use anti-viral cleaning products, have daily disinfection in common areas, and rooms sanitized between stays. You'll find hand sanitizer everywhere. Also, they have safety/security feature, smoke alarms, fire extinguisher, and CCTV in common areas. They have staff trained in safety protocol and safe dining setup. They go above and beyond to make sure you feel safe and protected.
Services and Conveniences: Pampered Much?
This place is all about pampering, which is something I'm very good at.
- Concierge: They can arrange anything, from tours to restaurant reservations.
- Daily housekeeping: Your room will be spotless every day.
- Laundry service: Because, ew, washing clothes.
- Dry cleaning: Perfect for those fancy outfits.
- Luggage storage: So you can explore the medina without your bags.
- Currency exchange: Super convenient.
- Gift/souvenir shop: Perfect for those last-minute gifts.
My Quirky Obsession: The Staff
The staff at Riad Kerdouss aren't just employees; they’re genuinely friendly and helpful. They remember your name, go out of their way to assist you, and make you feel like family. It makes a world of difference.
(A funny moment): I kept mispronouncing "tagine." One of the waiters, with a twinkle in his eye, started teaching me how to say it properly. By the end of the week, I was practically fluent!
Things to Consider (And A Few Gripes)
- While the Wi-Fi in my room wasn't always reliable (as mentioned above), it was fine in the main areas. Not a dealbreaker, but something to be aware of if you need a constant connection.
- The prices for some of the spa treatments were bit more expensive, but given the quality, it was worth it for me.
- I've noticed the elevator in the property and exterior corridor.
The Verdict: Should You Book Riad Kerdouss?
Absolutely, yes! It's a beautiful, well-run riad with a fantastic location, incredible food, and outstanding service. It's not without a few minor imperfections, but the overall experience is truly magical. This place is perfect for a solo traveler, a couple, or a family. Riad Kerdouss is a safe haven in the heart of the madness
Lisbon Airport's Secret Glass Room: The B2B Hotspot You NEED to Know About
Okay, alright, Marrakech, here we go! Prepare for some serious jet lag, some serious sensory overload, and possibly, some serious regret about that last tagine you ordered. This itinerary isn't going to be a perfect, Instagram-filtered dream. It's going to be real. Buckle up, buttercups.
Riad Kerdouss – My Moroccan Meltdown (and Maybe a Little Magic)
Day 1: Arrival & Orientation (aka "Is this real life?")
- Morning (ish): Land at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). The air hits you like a spiced apricot cloud. Seriously. Taxi to Riad Kerdouss. The driver tries to upsell you on a camel ride. Laugh nervously and say "Maybe later!" - you'll probably change your mind within an hour.
- Afternoon: Check into Kerdouss. Oh. My. God. This place is stunning. You'll feel like you stepped into a movie, all shimmering tiles and courtyards overflowing with bougainvillea. The mint tea arrives. Sigh. This is the exact feeling of the "oasis" that you would call. Spend an hour just wandering around, touching the walls, taking photos (because, duh). Start feeling overwhelmed. It's beautiful, but where do you go from here? Panic slightly. Then, decide to take a nap. Jet lag wins.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Wake up feeling disoriented. Wander in a daze into Marrakech's souks – the old marketplace. Be prepared to get lost. Embrace it. It's part of the fun. The first ten vendors will try to sell you carpets, leather bags, and whatever "special" argan oil they're secretly trying to push. Ignore them…or haggle like a pro (I'm still working on that). My first impression? Chaos. Glorious, vibrant, overwhelming chaotic. Find Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the heart of the city. Watch the snake charmers, laugh at the monkeys (slightly pitying the monkeys, too), and try to eat something from a food stall. The smell of grilled meats and spices will assault your senses. You'll order tagine. It will be delicious and maybe 50% over-spiced. Decide you love this place. Then, head back, slightly overwhelmed, to the Riad, and sleep like the dead.
Day 2: Souk Shenanigans & Hammam Heaven
- Morning: Decide you're a pro at navigating the souks. Get lost. Again. You'll stumble upon hidden alleyways, tiny workshops, and vendors who will insist you need a silver teapot. Buy a few things you don't need. It's okay. Support the local economy (and justify your impulsive spending). Try to learn some basic Arabic phrases. "Shukran" (thank you) goes a long way. Be prepared to be amused.
- Afternoon: The Hammam Experience (and My Public Display of Clumsiness): This is the part I was most worried about, but also the one I was looking forward to the most and didn't disappoint. Book a traditional hammam experience. Get scrubbed, massaged, and generally pummeled into a state of blissful relaxation. Then, a slight issue as I was getting very scrubbed, I accidentally slipped on some soapy water (in front of everyone). Mortifying. I almost died of embarrassment. But honestly, it was so funny, even the staff were laughing. If you are going to go to a hammam, do it. Get scrubbed, do it properly. Don't do what I did and be clumbsy. But also: don't be afraid to laugh at yourself. Afterward, feel the most incredible sensation, like you’ve morphed into a newborn baby.
- Evening: Dinner at a rooftop restaurant. The view of the city at sunset is magical, especially with the call to prayer echoing across the rooftops. It might make you tear up a little. Drink some more mint tea. Realize you're falling in love with this place. Start scheming about how to come back and/or never leave.
Day 3: Gardens & a Baking Debacle
- Morning: Jardin Majorelle. Yes, the famous blue-and-yellow garden. Go early to avoid the crowds. It's small but intense. Absorb the calm before the hordes arrive. Contemplate your life choices while gazing at the cacti.
- Afternoon: Cooking Class. I signed up for a cooking class to learn how to make tagine. It was supposed to be a fun cultural experience, but in all honesty, it turned into a hilarious kitchen disaster. I burned a lot of things. Almost set the kitchen on fire. The instructors, bless their patience, just smiled and let me mess up. The tagine was still edible, somehow.
- Evening: Head out for another wander around the Medina. After a day of intense cultural experiences, I just go back here to find some peace. Find a street food vendor serving couscous. Decide it’s the best thing you've ever eaten. Eat it while looking at the chaos.
Day 4: Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains - Into the Mountain & Out of My Comfort Zone
- Morning: Day trip to the Atlas Mountains. Hire a driver or book a group tour. Prepare yourself for a scenic drive. The mountains are gorgeous—rugged, imposing, and a complete contrast to the flat plains of Marrakech. The winding roads are slightly terrifying. You might get a bit carsick.
- Afternoon: Visit a Berber village. Don't forget to dress respectfully. Explore the area.
- Evening: Return to Marrakech. You might be exhausted but also exhilarated. Have a quieter dinner. Reflect on the day. Realize you have another long flight.
Day 5: Farewell (for now!) & Souvenir Shopping
- Morning: Final stroll through the souks to pick up those last-minute souvenirs. Embrace the chaos one last time. Say "no, shukran" firmly to the vendors trying to sell you the same carpet you've already seen a dozen times. Haggle like a pro.
- Afternoon: Relax at the Riad. Reflect on your journey.
- Late Afternoon: Transfer to the airport. Say goodbye to Marrakech (for now).
Things to Expect (and Embrace):
- The Heat: It's hot. Drink lots of water. Wear sunscreen.
- The Haggling: It's a way of life. Be respectful but firm.
- The Sensory Overload: It's intense. Just breathe and let it wash over you.
- The Mint Tea: Drink it. All of it.
- The Unexpected: Things will go wrong. Plans will change. That's part of the adventure.
- The Feeling of "Wow": Marrakech is unlike anywhere else. Embrace the magic.
Food Recommendations (Because, Obviously):
- Tagine (of course!): Lamb, chicken, vegetable…try them all.
- Couscous: Especially on Fridays.
- Pastilla: Sweet and savory pigeon or chicken pie. Sounds weird. Tastes amazing.
- Fresh orange juice: So delicious.
- Mint tea: The national drink. Drink it everywhere, at all times.
Important Notes:
- Cover up: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Petty theft can happen. Keep your valuables secure.
- Learn a few basic Arabic phrases: It's polite and appreciated.
- Embrace the chaos: It's part of the charm.
- Most importantly: HAVE FUN!
So, there you have it. My incredibly messy, imperfect, and utterly honest Marrakech itinerary. Go. See. Experience. Laugh. Cry (maybe). And get ready to fall in love. Or, at the very least, have a story to tell. Safe travels!
Alpaca Farm Glamping: Sleep 8 in a Double Decker Bus! (Chudleigh, UK)
Okay, spill the beans! What's *actually* hidden about Riad Kerdouss? It sounds like some secret society headquarters…
Alright, alright, settle down, you curious cats! "Hidden" isn't about coded handshakes and velvet ropes (although, wouldn't *that* be a story?). It's more… the opposite, actually. It's hidden in plain sight. Think of it like this: you’re wandering the souks, overwhelmed by the smells, the merchants shouting, the sheer glorious chaos. Then, *bam*, you stumble upon a small, unassuming door, a moment of quiet, a slight pause in the cacophany. That's the door to Kerdouss. It's hidden in the sense that it's tucked away, a tiny oasis of peace in the city's frenzy.
My first time? I was *lost*. Utterly, gloriously lost. I was on a mission for genuine leather slippers, bargaining like a pro (or so I thought), and then, *whoosh*, I missed the turn. Panic started to set in. Suddenly, this tiny, carved wooden door appeared… and that was it, instant calm. It's like the city coughs you up, and then Kerdouss swallows you whole in a good way.
So, is it luxurious? Like, marble floors and gold faucets luxurious? Because I'm a simple person. Okay, maybe not simple. But a person on a budget.
Luxury? Hmm. It's not the *bling-bling* type of luxury. No, you won’t find gold faucets, unless they’ve been cleverly disguised as something else (I never checked, tbh). It's more of a *soulful* luxury. Think comfortable, but not ostentatious. Think beautiful, but with a touch of wear-and-tear that tells you it’s *lived*.
The rooms are generally lovely. I mean, there's always the chance of a room that’s a bit…cosy (as in, *really* cosy, aka small), but they’re all charming. Expect intricately carved woodwork, that lovely Moroccan light filtering in, and a general feeling of being somewhere special. They *nail* the ambiance. And the best part? It doesn’t feel stuffy. I'm definitely not a fancy person and it never feels like that. I get overwhelmed in places like that!
What's the food *really* like? I’ve heard some riads hype it up… does Kerdouss actually deliver? Because I'm a glutton, I admit it.
Food? Oh, YES. Seriously. Prepare your stomach. And your tastebuds. Kerdouss delivers, big time. They do a traditional Moroccan meal – lamb tagine, couscous, all that goodness. And it's not just the food; it's the *experience*. Eating in the courtyard under the stars, the murmur of conversation, the sense of… well, again, of being *somewhere*. It's magical.
Okay, confession time: I’m not the most adventurous eater. I’d rather eat a big plate of pasta than something exotic any day. But, Kerdouss even got *me*. The lamb tagine was seriously the best I’ve had in ages. I ended up eating so much, I was practically rolling back to my room. And their mint tea? Forget about it. You'll be addicted in approximately 3 seconds. Seriously, it's dangerous stuff – in the most delicious way possible.
Okay, okay, you've sold me on the food. But what about the staff? Are they friendly or are they just pretending for tips?
The staff at Kerdouss are lovely. They're not just pretending to be friendly. They’re genuinely warm and welcoming. It’s not overly formal, which I appreciate. They’re there to help, to make you feel comfortable, and give you tips.
On my first visit, I was disastrously sunburned (hello, pale skin and Moroccan sun!). I was miserable, but the staff were incredible. They helped me with remedies and went out of their way to make me feel better. They even somehow managed to make me forget my sunburn even existed! They’re a big part of what makes Kerdouss special. Plus, the one thing I have to rave about again…the mint tea. Always offered, always welcome.
Is there anything *bad* about it? Nobody's perfect. I’m waiting for the catch.
Alright, alright, you want the dirt? Fine. There are a few minor quibbles, but nothing that would make me *not* recommend it, absolutely. My biggest issues are usually related to the heat (which isn't the riad's fault, duh).
It can get *really* hot in Marrakech, especially in the summer. While the riad itself is always cool (the courtyard, the rooms, it’s all designed to keep the heat out), there’s no air conditioning in the common areas. So, you’ll need to accept sweating while waiting for the mint tea. Also, if you want to sleep late… well, the call to prayer. It's beautiful, but it *will* wake you up. You will absolutely feel that when you wake up. Otherwise, it's pretty good.
Lastly, the Wi-Fi can be a bit spotty at times. But honestly? I see that as a *good* thing. It encourages you to disconnect and just… *be*. Besides, who wants to be staring at a screen when you could be drinking mint tea and soaking up the atmosphere?
So, to recap, is Riad Kerdouss worth it? And would you go *back*? Be honest!
Worth it? Absolutely. It's a little slice of paradise in the middle of a chaotic, glorious city. It's beautiful, it's comfortable, the food is amazing, and the staff are lovely.
Would I go back? Are you kidding me? I've been back like, I don't know, three times already! I'm already planning my next trip. So, yeah, go. Just go. And tell me what you think. I want to hear all about it! And maybe you'll find a secret hand shake? Okay, maybe not.
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