Staying in a Riad4 min read

Luxury riad in Marrakech: an authentic stay in the heart of the Medina

Patio of Riad El Noujoum, a charming riad in the Marrakech Medina
Contents
  1. What is a riad?
  2. Riad El Noujoum, “the riad of the stars”
  3. Our rooms and suites
  4. Our services
  5. An ideal location in the Kasbah
  6. What sets us apart
  7. How to book your stay?

Behind a discreet door in an alley of the Kasbah, one of the oldest quarters of the Marrakech Medina, lies a world apart: a leafy patio with its pool, a gently murmuring fountain, sun-drenched terraces and the scent of orange blossom. Welcome to Riad El Noujoum, your haven of peace in the heart of the Red City.

“A riad is Moroccan architecture in all its philosophy: austere on the outside, sumptuous on the inside. A world turned towards its heart, like a flower opening away from prying eyes.”

What is a riad?

The word “riad” comes from the Arabic rawda, meaning garden. Traditionally, a riad is an urban Moroccan residence built around a central patio with a fountain and greenery. Its deliberately plain façades protect an interior of great decorative richness.

Today, many of Marrakech's riads have been restored and turned into guesthouses full of character. They offer an authentic and intimate alternative to large hotels. Staying in a riad means choosing Marrakech in its purest essence.

Riad El Noujoum, “the riad of the stars”

El Noujoum means “the stars” in Arabic, and each of our rooms is named after a star or constellation: Antares, Vega, Lyre, Vénus, Céphée, Carène, Sirius and Orion. Once a festive hall where joyful weddings were celebrated, the riad has been fully renovated with respect for traditional Moroccan architecture: zellige, marble, carved cedarwood and chiselled plasterwork.

The house has kept its spirit of conviviality and light: a warm, personal atmosphere far from mass tourism. Discover our story.

Our rooms and suites

The riad has eight rooms and suites in four categories. True to the spirit of the house, they have no television: here, you come to unplug.

The Royal Suites (Orion and Sirius)

On the first floor, overlooking the patio and its leafy pool: a main bedroom and a sitting room with fireplace, carved cedarwood furniture and a zellige and marble bathroom with bathtub, shower and double basin. See the Royal Suites

The Junior Suites

On the first floor, bathed in light thanks to their traditional glazed doors, they feature a sitting area with fireplace and comfortably sleep two to three people. Ideal for couples or small families. See the Junior Suites

The Superior Rooms

On the ground and first floors, some open directly onto the patio, others overlook the central fountain. A large double bed, an extra bed available in some rooms and a bathroom with shower. See the Superior Rooms

The Standard Room

A spacious ground-floor room opening onto the patio and pool, with a relaxation corner and a large marble and zellige shower. See the Standard Room

👉 See all our rooms and check availability · Browse the photo gallery

Our services

  • Moroccan breakfast served in the patio
  • Moroccan meals on request: our cook prepares tajines, couscous and local specialities, served in the lounge, the patio or on the terrace
  • Hammam and traditional massages with our partner therapists: discover our rituals
  • Private transfers to and from the airport with our partner drivers
  • Organised excursions: Atlas Mountains, Ourika, Essaouira, the desert… see our excursions

An ideal location in the Kasbah

Riad El Noujoum is located between the two royal palaces, right by the Saadian Tombs, a few steps from El Badi Palace and the Moulay El Yazid Mosque. Jemaa el-Fna square and the souks are about ten minutes' walk away. The riad is easily reached by car, a rare advantage in the Medina.

Marrakech Menara International Airport is about 15 minutes away by taxi. We can arrange your transfer on request.

“Staying at Riad El Noujoum means falling asleep to the sound of a fountain and waking up in the golden light of Marrakech. The city is right there, within reach.”

What sets us apart

  • A former festive hall fully renovated in the Moroccan tradition
  • Leafy patio with pool and fountain, sun-drenched terraces
  • Eight rooms and suites named after the stars, with no television, for a true digital detox
  • Suites with sitting room and fireplace
  • Hammam, massages, home cooking and excursions arranged on site
  • In the Kasbah, 10 minutes' walk from Jemaa el-Fna and accessible by car

How to book your stay?

Book directly on our official website to enjoy the best rate and our exclusive offers, or contact us by phone or e-mail. For groups and private events (honeymoons, anniversaries), contact us for a personalised quote.

Read also: What to do in Marrakech in 3 days? · Hammam in Marrakech: our traditional rituals and treatments

🌙 Book your stay at Riad El Noujoum · Tel.: +212 670-505454 · riadelnoujoum50@gmail.com

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