Le Farnatchi: A 400-Year-Old Riad with Expansive Suites, a Private Spa, and Contemporary Moroccan Cuisine in Marrakech
Riad | 10 Suites | 1 Pool | 1 Spa | 1 Restaurant
Tucked deep within the historic medina of Marrakech, on a plot that dates back some 400 years, Le Farnatchi is one of the city’s most refined boutique addresses. Behind its understated walls lies a carefully restored network of traditional courtyards, light-filled interiors, and intimate retreats. The riad balances historic architecture with modern comfort, offering a notable sense of privacy in the heart of the old city.
The ten suites are among the most spacious in the medina, each measuring at least 50 sqm. Natural light filters in through skylights and courtyard windows, illuminating rooms defined by individually sourced artwork, handpicked furnishings, and details found in the souks of Marrakech. Marble, polished tadelakt, and finely crafted woodwork shape the aesthetic. Some suites feature sunken bathtubs, private terraces, or working fireplaces. In addition to open fires, central heating and— in most suites—underfloor heating provide comfort during cooler months, while air conditioning ensures ease in warmer seasons.
At the center of the riad, a courtyard pool anchors the space. As evening falls and candles flicker around the water, the atmosphere turns quietly atmospheric—a natural setting for an aperitif or mint tea after a day in the medina. Unlike many smaller riads, Le Farnatchi operates with a team of more than 20 staff members, allowing for highly personalized service. From airport transfers and restaurant reservations to curated excursions, arrangements are handled with discretion and care.
Culinarily, the riad is closely connected to the neighboring restaurant Le Trou Au Mur, located just next door and also owned by the Riad's host James Wix. The restaurant offers a contemporary interpretation of Moroccan cuisine, grounded in carefully sourced ingredients and traditional flavors. Guests of Le Farnatchi may dine there or arrange private experiences. Breakfast and additional meals are served within the riad itself, prepared with fresh, locally available ingredients.
A defining feature of the property is the Farnatchi Spa, housed in a separate townhouse-style riad of its own. It is widely regarded as one of the leading spas in the medina. Treatment rooms, a traditional hammam, and relaxation areas unfold across multiple levels. The spa can be fully privatized for the day, making it well-suited for a shared wellness experience. The menu includes classic hammam rituals, massages, and facials using high-quality products.
Le Farnatchi’s location allows guests to step directly into the life of Marrakech. The souks, historic palaces, and museums of the medina are all within walking distance. At the same time, the riad offers a quiet counterpoint to the energy of the surrounding streets. The team can arrange guided tours, visits to artisan workshops, or day trips to the Atlas Mountains and the Agafay Desert.
As with many thoughtfully restored riads, Le Farnatchi contributes to the preservation of Marrakech’s architectural heritage. The restoration drew on local craftsmanship, from intricate stonework to carved wood details. The hotel operates with a predominantly local team, supporting employment within the community.
Le Farnatchi appeals to travelers seeking generous space, privacy, and attentive service within a historic setting. The combination of expansive suites, a standalone spa, and immediate access to one of the medina’s established restaurants creates a stay that balances retreat with immersion.
A day here might begin with breakfast in the courtyard before heading out to explore the winding lanes of the medina. In the afternoon, a hammam treatment in the private spa offers a pause. As the light softens over the rooftops, return for an aperitif by the pool, followed by dinner at Le Trou Au Mur—just steps from your door.pa an, gefolgt von einem Aperitif am Pool, während die untergehende Sonne die Mauern in warmes Licht taucht. Abends wartet ein Dinner im Le Trou Au Mur – nur wenige Schritte entfernt.
Sustainability Criteria
- Le Farnatchi offers fair and equal pay to its employees
- Reimbursement of overtime hours
- Local staff in management positions
- Fostering equal opportunities and diversity
- Hotel store equipped with local brands
- Procurement from local businesses
- Le Farnatchi offers activities involving local culture and communities
- Supports charities
- The staff is engaged in social work
- Usage of Botanika Marrakech for all bathroom amenities and spa products
- Le Farnatchi uses solar panels for warm water
- Motion sensors lights
- Energy saving cooling/heating technology in guest rooms and public areas
- Energy saving equipment
- Energy efficient building
- LED light bulbs
- Air source heat pump for heating
- Le Farnatchi’s architecture adapts to local environment & respects surrounding nature
- Rooms and outlets are equipped with furniture made of organic materials
- Use of locally producted handcrafts
- Fabrics like towels, bed sheets, and curtains are made of organic materials
- Renovation has been carried out under ecological building standards
- Usage of wood, cotton, and wool
- Work with artisans to produce hand woven rugs, handmade pots and pottery
- Le Farnatchi works with local carpenters to produce wooden furniture
- Glass bottles instead of plastic bottles
- Hotel rooms are single-use plastic free
- Le Farnatchi uses dispensers for toiletries
- Products are in recycled packaging
- Electric equipment is adequately disposed of
- Products are purchased in bulk
- Paper reduced in communication with guests
- Le Farnatchi sells old furniture
- Staff is educated about how to reduce and recycle
- Guest communication signs made of wood or recycled paper
- Constantly retraining in waste production
- Le Farnatchi is tracking water consumption to implement measures for reduction
- Regular checks for water safety
- Water saving toilets
- Changing of towels and bed linens only on request or every other day
- Education of staff on water reduction
- Collecting rainfall water
- Training staff in better cleaning practices
- Constantly progressing in water saving through technological advancements
- The riad uses Bathroom amenities from Botanika Marrakech, which are with natural ingredients
- Amenities and spa products are certified organic
- Spa products consists of local ingredients
- Spa offers traditional local treatments
- Le Farnatchi offers bike rental/car-sharing
- Le Farnatchi offers yoga and meditation
Features & Activities
- City Hotel
- City Hotel
- Culture
- Gym at the Hotel
- Hotel in a Historical Building
- Pool at the Property
- Spa Treatments Available
Location
Le Farnatchi is located right in the center of Marrakech’s Medina, just a stone’s throw away from sights like Medersa Ben Youssef or the Secret Garden.
