After saying goodbye to a busy 2018 I couldn’t wait for my first trip of 2019 and what a great trip it was, a relaxing visit back to one of my favourite Riads in Marrakech Riad Farnatchi. James Wix the owner invited me back to see the new suite 1. I was very happy, just what I needed after my recent operation. James is originally from the UK and lives in Marrakech with his wife and soon to be new baby daughter (congratulations).  So I felt sure if I had any problems there would be help at hand, which for some visiting an unknown country will be a plus. Now I was lucky enough to stay in two different suites on this trip as James wanted me to experience both.  I must say they were both very impressive, with a mixed Moroccan-European style both suites were certainly 5 star.

The detail was superb in both suites and the glass ceiling in suite 1 gives you a view of the stars of an evening just perfect. The sunken bath in front of the fire is a touch of luxury and the access to the pool is just outside your front door, my idea of heaven. Every detail of Riad Farnatchi has been considered with guests’ comfort in mind, I would highly recommend this stunning private courtyard-house hotel. Suite 1 was certainly roomy with a large seating area, Tv’s in both the lounge and bedroom and a separate shower area. Fresh flowers, fruit and water daily and of course daily maid service.  The service from the staff here was spot on and you couldn’t have asked for more (other than another few days).

Next Suite 10 had a different vibe totally but was still just as amazing, having its own private rooftop area was a bonus, great for sunbathing and taking breakfast or having a glass of wine of an evening, very private and not overlooked at all yet still had great views. This suite has a separate lounge area with open fire and a stunning bathroom with walk in shower, no need to pack any wash stuff if you visit Riad Farnatchi as every room has a choice of Molton Brown toiletries, hairdryer, robes and a pair of babouches( Moroccan slippers) gifted for you to take home.

Now I love Marrakech as I’m sure I may have said a few times now, but finding a riad that is well positioned for exploring the souks and the historical sites is always a plus. Riad Farnatchi is well situated, just fifteen minutes from the airport and a ten minute walk into the main square, making this one of my favourite areas in Marrakech. Your driver will pick you up from the airport and the concierge will always be at the end of the phone 24/7 to arrange a car to take you where ever you wish.

Riad Farnatchi is a fifteen minute drive from two of my most visited restaurants when I’m in Marrakech, Palais Jad Mahal and Comptoir Darna both have fabulous food, music and dancers. If you are looking for excellent food close to home you should try eating in Riad Farnatchi’s dining room by the pool for that romantic meal or for a night out you only need to venture a couple of minutes. Just a few steps outside the Riad is Le Trou Au Mur a fine dining restaurant which belongs to Riad Farnatchi, here you can enjoy Moroccan cuisine at its best, there’s a fine selection of wines to cater for everyone.

Riad Farnatchi was one of Marrakech’s first boutique riad’s, it was once 5 houses which have been remodelled to now accommodate 10 suites, a dining room, two court yards, plus relaxing sitting areas to listen to the bird song or maybe read a book.  There’s a seven metre pool area which is situated in one of the courtyards giving ample shaded areas for when that Moroccan sun may get a little too much and you need a cool down. Up on the roof terrace there’s a barbecue where you can enjoy fantastic views of Marrakech and you can even see the Atlas Mountains.

Now if a relaxing afternoon looking out over the Medina and soaking up the sun with lunch bought to you with a selection of great wines isn’t enough then maybe you should visit the Farnatchi Spa

This luxury day spa offers a selection of treatments, there are stunning private marble hammams and beautiful treatment rooms with exquisite detail from floor to ceiling.

If this is your first time in the city of Marrakech you’ve got a lot to see, eat and explore. In the city prices are negotiable for almost everything especially for souvenirs and taxis. Exploring the souks are of course a must as they are so close by. This traditional market is set within the Medina (old city) and is a maze of cobblestone side streets, snake charmers, spices and tucked away restaurants.  I would start at the iconic Jemaa el Fna Square, from here you will see the Koutoubia Mosque, (the largest mosque in Marrakech) you can jump on a horse and cart for a tour of the city. If you’re heading into the souks make sure you give yourself time as you will for sure end up wandering the spiralling alleyways for hours as there is so much to see.

Thank you once again for an amazing stay and I will most certainly be back to see you on my next visit to Marrakech, I need to see the new addition to the Wix family. x