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Hotel Overview

Dar Les Cigognes is a unique Moroccan luxury riad that shows the many facets of the rich cultural and artistic traditions of Moorish art and architecture. Originally a merchant's home built in the 1600's with a mandate from the palace; the new owners have laboured to restore the house to its former glory. The luxury riad is conveniently situated across the street from the Royal Palace and the Badi Palace, the ramparts of which carry many year-round residents, the "royal" storks. Dar Les Cigognes is also just a short walk to the place Djema El Fnaa and many of Marrakech's most famous historical sites and museums.

The facilities

The staff have a personal commitment to providing guests with comfort and a high level of personalised service, available at all hours. Guests are assisted in selecting and booking restaurants, guides, excursions, and leisure and sport activities in and around Marrakech, as well as farther afield. The professionally trained chef also serves local Moroccan delicacies in the house's own dining room where breakfast and afternoon tea are complimentary.

Dar Les Cigognes unites two traditional luxury riads. In the main building, the ground floor holds the public spaces, including kitchen, dining room, library, living room, office, washroom, staff quarters and two large alcoves where guests like to take tea. There are citrus trees and a traditional tiled basin with a marble fountain in the centre of the courtyard. Spanning both houses is a lush roof garden, redolent with trees and flowering plants, and boasting a view towards the Atlas Mountains.

The rooms

Together, the two adjoining buildings of the luxury riad have eight rooms for guests. Each has its own well-appointed en-suite bathroom, with bath and shower facilities. The rooms are unique, with each drawing on a different aspect of Moorish artistic tradition. The second riad is connected by a covered bridge, in which guests will find a small boutique selling a select range of kaftans and other custom-made local handicrafts. There is a massage room with a stunning double-height ceiling, a hammam with Jacuzzi, and a large open sitting area. Upstairs and downstairs are three guest rooms each, all built around a central court with a fountain and three palm trees.

Style

Luxurious Moorish

Location

This charmingly authentic riad hotel is right opposite the gates to the Royal Palace and is in the heart of the medina, or old city. It is within walking distance of most of the sights of Marrakech including the Jemaa El Fna where many stalls and entertainers ply their trade. Snake charmers, carpet-makers, musicians and vendors all make this a typical noisy Moroccan marketplace. The nearby narrow alleyways of the souk, the Koutoubia Mosque and the many palaces, gardens and museums all add to the attractions of this vibrant city.

Highlights and Features

There are literally hundreds of boutique hotels in Marrakech, but the Dar Les Cigognes stands out as one of the finest. Chosen by Hedonist’s Guide as one of the 10 best hotels in the city, this delightful riad-style guesthouse has retained the atmosphere of a private home whilst offering all the services of a luxury hotel. It is named after the storks or ‘cigognes’ which can be seen nesting on the ramparts of the nearby Royal Palace.

The Dar Les Cigognes had a head start on the rest as it was formerly the home of a wealthy merchant and its fine architecture and interior décor reflect its former wealth. Architect Charles Boccara has retained the authentic atmosphere of the riad as the rooms are arranged around the pleasant courtyard with its fountain and fruit trees. There are many private corners to relax with a book, or enjoy the views of the snowcapped Atlas peaks from the terraces. The Moroccan hammam, spa and jacuzzi offer traditional beauty treatments and relaxing massages to complete the excellent amenities. The restaurant of this boutique hotel offers Moroccan dishes served in an intimate and authentic dining area or on the rooftop terrace, which adds to the ambience.

The 11 luxury hotel rooms and suites each have their own Moorish style with individually chosen local antiques and artwork. Rich, bold colours are used to decorate the rooms individually and Berber mirrors, safi pottery and local carpets complete the attractive appeal. Luxurious without being opulent, this boutique hotel offers comfortable accommodation in a great central location.

Hotel Facilities

Setting: City.

Hotel amenities: Palacial bathrooms,Spectacular suites.

Hotel Policies

Check in time is 12:00 Check out time is 12:00