Location

3 minutes from Jamaa El Fna Square lies the Hotel Les Jardins de la Koutoubia. This hotel is easily reached by taxi or tuktuk. Unlike other Riads often found on small deserted alleys, this hotel is not isolated. There are people and traffic here, yet once you step inside the hotel you find yourself in an oasis of tranquility and birdsong.

Arrival

Les Jardins de la Koutoubia is a very luxurious 5 star hotel with 108 rooms. We were well received and asked to have a seat on the big soft sofas. We were then approached by a waiter who offered us washcloths for our dirty (from travel!) hands and lovely mint tea. Everyone was very polite and friendly, but a bit distant -as is traditional (and expected) in a 5 star hotel.

Design and Decor

The style here is elegant Victorian, and they didn’t hold back on the dark red velour, rose petals or gold!

I loved it!

I always love when a style is out and out 100% -whether it’s my personal style or not-and this hotel has definitely achieved this.

The pool area is a veritable oasis with palm trees, plants and flowers. There are wooden armchairs and couches amongst the pillars. There are various lounges, one with a pool table and a fireplace, a small library and plenty of spots to relax, chill and enjoy yourself.

There are 4 restaurants, a piano bar, a rooftop bar, a restaurant and a stunning view over the city. All in all, it is possible to stray amongst all the spaces and get a little lost in all the dark red, gold and bling.

The decor is a bit worn, as it’s been years since it was last renovated. It didn’t bother me in the least though as I like to see that the hotel has been running for a long time.

Ambiance

The rooms are clean, the poolside service is great, the staff do their best, are friendly and smiley. However, there was a lack of personality. I didn’t have one personal interaction with any staff. Although, the fact that the concierge could remember our room number was very impressive and made me feel well-cared for.

Room

We had a superior room with large windows and a patio, overlooking the pool. A perfect location!

The room was a really nice size, with a good bed, 2 armchairs, a desk and good closets. The bathroom was reasonably sized, with bath and shower, and all in green marble.

The entire room was beautifully decorated, not too flashy, with bright colours, wood and old Moroccan photos hanging on the walls. It’s a calming feature that the rooms are muted and not so “princess-like”, especially after a day in the colourful and bustling souks!

Spa

Stepping into the spa is like stepping into the fairytale of 1001 nights! A heated pool amidst the large columns, and a very prominent Moroccan elegance. There were no people while I was there as I think it is mostly used before and after treatments. I chose a treatment from the extensive menu and was very pleasantly surprised at how professional an experienced was.

Overall

• A lot of luxury for the money

• If you’re travelling alone or don’t want to go out at night, this hotel offers a perfect alternative for staying in and hanging out

• Very spacious and authentic Moroccan decor

• A big plus for location: very close to the medinand easily accessible by vehicle

RATING OUT OF 5

Comfort:❤️ ❤️ ❤️

Style: ❤️❤️ ❤️❤️

Friendship:❤️ ❤️❤️ ❤️

Taste: ❤️ ❤️ ❤️