Riad Siwan: A Restored 19th-Century Palace Offering Panoramic Medina Views and Moroccan Craftsmanship in Marrakech
7 Suites | 1 Pool | 1 Rooftop Terrace
Hidden within the labyrinthine alleys of Marrakech, Riad Siwan was once the 19th-century palace of the Khaloufi family. Local craftsmen from all over Morocco were brought in to restore the original plaster sculptures, the 4-meter-high cedar wood doors, and the intricate sculptured ceilings, all while integrating modern comforts like rain showers, heating, and a naturally sun-heated pool. The typical Riad structure is designed to maintain coolness in the heat, adapting naturally to the climate.
Every curtain, fabric, and nearly all the furniture and lighting were custom-made in Marrakech for Riad Siwan. The art and photographs found throughout have been curated from the owners' extensive travels, giving each space its own unique feel. In the Salón, for example, you’ll find colors inspired by Marrakech’s landscapes: the city’s signature red, the warm ochre tones of Morocco, and the sunlit yellow hues of Africa. An internal garden with a soothing fountain is central to the riad’s design, and during cooler months, a fireplace adds warmth while glass doors allow views of the garden.
Riad Siwan offers 7 individually designed suites, each with its own distinctive style, comfort, and atmosphere. Locally crafted furnishings and décor are featured in every room, including marble, polished granite, and traditional Moroccan tadelakt bathrooms. Several rooms also boast private terraces and glass doors to create an indoor-outdoor feel, allowing guests to enjoy the garden’s beauty year-round.
For a moment of pure indulgence, Fatima, the riad’s expert masseuse, offers treatments using natural Moroccan products, including massages, facials, and body scrubs—all available in the privacy of your suite.
Beyond comfort, Riad Siwan is committed to its community. Since 2007, it has supported the Association Education For All (AEFA), providing education for girls from the High Atlas Mountains, and contributing to rebuilding efforts following the 2023 earthquake. The riad also supports local child protection initiatives and prioritizes sourcing goods from women-led businesses.
For an unforgettable stay, hosts Maryk and Cees curate tailored excursions: explore the Medina with a local guide, and hike the High Atlas. Visit Lake Takerkoust on a Tuesday to experience the weekly Berber souk, or enjoy a traditional Berber lunch with a local family in the Ourika Valley. From there, explore the Anima Gardens or a nearby ecological saffron farm. For the adventurous, sidecar tours, hot air balloon rides, or day trips to the coast are just a few of the experiences that await.
Sustainability Criteria
- The owners are co-founder and president of Education for All, Morocco with currently 250 girls receiving education at college and lycée level
- They support local NGO’s such as Centre Fier et Fort, Association pour les enfants handicapes and others
- They donate to a big local orphanage
- They purchase hand-made products from local businesses especially set up and run by women, such as Atelier Beldine
- Houses here are designed and built to keep heat out and have a natural way to be adapted to the climate
- Windows have shutters and staff is dedicated to switch lights off at night and when not in use
- The kitchen uses mainly organic produce from their offsite farm
- All dishes are prepared with local and seasonal products
- There is a variety of vegetarian and vegan options
- Leftovers are given to neighbours
- The Riad has been renovated in the old traditional way
- All fabrics, towels, linen, bed covers, curtains etc. are handmade/hand woven for the Riad with natural products
- Staff wears costumes made for them by a local tailor
Photos
Features & Activities
- City Hotel
- Culture
- Hotel in a Historical Building
- Pool at the Property
Location
Riad Siwan is located on a quiet side street within the Medina, just a 7-minute walk from the iconic Jemaa el-Fnaa square and 10 minutes from the Koutoubia Mosque. The Majorelle Garden and Yves Saint Laurent Museum are around 3 kilometers away, accessible by a 15-minute drive. Marrakech Menara Airport is approximately 7 kilometers from the riad, a 20-minute drive depending on traffic.
Marrakech is the perfect starting point to explore some of Morocco’s true gems. The coastal city of Essaouira is just a 3-hour drive away, while Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the desert, is 4 hours away. Beyond that, the rugged Sahara takes over. Jbel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, is only a 2-hour drive from Marrakech, offering a stunning view of the High Atlas Mountains in all their glory.
