Step off the chaotic alleyways of Marrakech’s medina and close the door behind you; Riad Kniza is a safe haven of quiet and calm just a stone’s throw from the hawkers and snake charmers of Jemaa el-Fnaa square. If you listen carefully you might catch a faint Call to Prayer from its central courtyard, but otherwise the only assault on your senses is the scent from jasmine flowers and the lilting of water fountains.
Despite this cocoon from the outside world, there’s no doubt you’re in Morocco at Riad Kniza. In fact, it’s exactly this feeling of authenticity that led us to choose it as our first stop in Marrakech; the riad is a historical treasure and heirloom of Haj Mohamed Bouskri, whose family has owned the house since the 18th century.
Haj Mohamed himself plays an important role in creating this unique feeling of staying in a family home. A renowned local antiquarian and guide, the house is restored to authentic perfection with antiques, exquisite wooden carvings, local fabrics and intricate stucco embellishment.
He also features in the decor, happily posing on the riad’s wall of fame with film stars and former presidents – important guests who have also felt at home at Kniza over the years.
On arrival, you’re treated to a traditional Moroccan welcome of mint tea and biscuits infused with rose and almonds, served in one of the sumptuous sitting rooms.
There are several sitting areas to choose from, all offering privacy and – you guessed it – more tranquility. The plunge pool, unlike many riads in the city, is big enough to be functional, and there’s an onsite hammam for further indulgence.
Riad Kniza is a luxury boutique hotel with just eleven rooms, all distinct in their decor and layout. Believe it or not, the communal areas are merely an understated overture for the sheer luxury of the bedrooms.
There are a variety of room types to choose from, ranging from deluxe doubles all the way to the presidential-grade royal suite. No matter which option you choose, though, you’re bound to be impressed by the breathtaking beauty of the traditional detail and features.
The rooms are draped in silks and velvets and bathed in golds, reds and purples – every inch Moroccan luxury. Perhaps the most impressive feature of our room was the dome above the bed, carved with intricate Moorish designs, which gives the impression that you’re in a mosque or palace rather than a maison de charme in the centre of the Marrakech medina.
We stayed in the Junior Suite which, in addition to the majestic sleeping space, also features a living area with tiled fireplace, a separate study room with desk, a dressing area, and a sizeable marble bathroom – and the only bath we came across during our travels in Morocco!
The rooms are cleaned twice daily, with a turndown service to take you from day to night.
The riad is designed for royalty and that’s certainly how you’re made to feel as a guest at Riad Kniza. The small team offers a personalised approach that wouldn’t be possible in Marrakech’s bigger riads and luxury hotels. Nothing is too much trouble and a flexible approach is key: dining is available where and when you feel like it, whether you’d like a late breakfast set up in your room or afternoon drinks on the rooftop terrace.
Riad Kniza also comes with an impressive gastronomic offering, boasting a restaurant that comes highly-rated in its own right. The multi-course dinner has to be reserved a day in advance as everything is freshly made. Don’t hang around as there are just nine sought-after tables.
Likewise, breakfast is a rich affair comprising eggs, a selection of breads and cakes, cereal, yoghurt, jams and marmalades, fresh orange juice and coffee/tea. It’s a meal deserving of ample time, and we’d recommend enjoying it in the sun from the rooftop terrace.
In a city overflowing with choice and luxury accommodation, Riad Kniza is a rare pearl. It’s one of very few Moroccan-owned and family-run riads in Marrakech, and this affords it a unique sense of authenticity and understated charm, coupled with the larger-than-life extravagance of its history and heritage.
The team is described on the riad’s website as “discreet” and this couldn’t be a more accurate definition. Their subtlety belies the majesty of their surroundings, delivering an experience that shouldn’t feel down-to-earth… but still does.
If you’re looking to discover Marrakech as it was then and is now, through the eyes of the people who know it best, don’t hesitate to book a stay at the magnificent Riad Kniza.
We stayed
in the Junior Suite, priced online at around £300 per night with breakfast included.
For the best rates and perks such as complimentary transfer, book directly with the riad:
https://www.riadkniza.com/
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