Riad Farnatchi

Frommer's Review

Located at the northern edge of the souks and around the corner from the oldest farnatchi -- the below-ground fire pit used to heat the hammams -- is this chic, intimate, and luxurious riad. Retired, award-winning British hotelier Jonathon Wix spent 2 years converting three small riads into a personal holiday home before, in 2004, deciding to open the doors to paying guests who have included the likes of Angelina Jolie and Russell Crowe. This celebrity status has by no means affected the attention to service afforded upon nonsuperstar guests, thanks to British manager Lynn Perez and her staff, who are present 24 hours a day to attend to any request. This is one boutique riad where you feel like you're getting what you paid for.

The original trio of riads were as much as 400 years old, but there's nothing ancient about the amenities here, which include a brand-new white-marble hammam and 7-m (23-ft.) heated swimming pool (bashful bathers should note it is right near the riad entrance). Rooms are stocked with personally designed and crafted furniture, Egyptian-cotton linens, Hungarian goose-down pillows, and a computerized music/movie system and flatscreen TV. Every room is a suite and also has a private terrace. A nice touch is the set of complimentary jellabah and babouches that are laid out on the bed awaiting your arrival, as well as predinner canapés.

Even when full, the riad feels intimate and private with numerous salons located around the twin courtyards and a large rooftop terrace with plenty of lounge chairs. Romantic candle-lit dinners are available to guests. The kitchen bakes its own Berber bread and offers a different menu d'jour every night. The riad also provides take-out service from an international restaurant nearby.

Facilities:
Pool; hammam; concierge; free Internet and laptop use

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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