[Hotel Review] Riad Botanica, Marrakech: A Retreat for the Soul
From the moment I stepped into Riad Botanica, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. Nestled in the heart of Marrakech’s historic Medina, this riad isn’t just another place to stay – it’s a stylish sanctuary that perfectly balances cultural authenticity, contemporary flair, and a much-needed escape from the bustling streets of the city.
Bold Styles & Cultural Harmony
Riad Botanica, owned by Angela and Mohamed Mellak, stands out with its' effortless blend of Australian and Moroccan influences – a feature that immediately drew me in during my search on where to stay in Marrakech. The bold sense of style is evident throughout the riad, where traditional Moroccan craftsmanship meets bright, playful, wallpaper, prints, and textiles.
The juxtaposition of old and new is beautifully executed, creating a space that feels both vibrant and grounded. The detailed plasterwork, intricate tile designs, wood-carved details, and stunning metalworks pay homage to the city’s rich history and heritage. Yet, it’s the fresh, bold touches that give this riad it’s unique edge. Picture bright, open spaces filled with natural light, luxurious en-suites, and an inviting atmosphere that seamlessly brings the outside in. Plus, the orange tree at the heart of the courtyard is not just a feature but a symbol of organic and enchanting energy that fills the riad.
“Passionate about health, wellbeing, and meaningful design, I wanted Riad Botanica to be a truly beautiful space that harnesses and celebrates the power of nature, symbolized by the gorgeous orange tree that’s rooted in the center of the courtyard.
The tree has become the essence of the house and is key to the architecture and inspiration behind the organic and enchanting energy that fills the riad.”
The courtyard pool is an inviting spot to kick back and relax, embodying the thoughtful cross-cultural design that defines every corner of Riad Botanica. If you look closely, you'll notice the crosses and stars incorporated into the design. These symbols represent the harmony between Christianity and Islam, reflecting the unique cultural identity that Riad Botanica embraces.
During my stay, I spent many peaceful moments in the shaded courtyard – lounging on the pool-side seats reading, dipping my toes into the pool, and chit-chatting with the friendly guests and staff. The subtle scent of what seemed to be almond and orange blossom lingered in the air, adding a warm and inviting touch that made every moment in the riad feel special.
Whether unwinding there or relaxing in one of the rooms, the experience is immersive, making you feel personally connected to the environment.
The Rooms: A Sanctuary of Comfort
Continuing the theme of nature-inspired design, each of Riad Botanica’s six deluxe rooms is named after a plant or flower, and the interiors reflect this inspiration beautifully.
We stayed in the Zahara Deluxe Two Bedroom Apartment, an intimate yet inviting space that had plenty of room for us to relax in.
Traditional Moroccan features, fixtures, and furnishings are harmoniously combined with the iconic Australian design flair of Florence Broadhurst and others.
The apartment’s layout is spacious yet cozy, ideal for a family or a group of friends. The super king bed in the master bedroom, adorned with Florence Broadhurst’s iconic prints, was as comfortable as it was stylish. The second bedroom, featuring adult-sized bunk beds, provided a fun and functional space that matched the inviting atmosphere of the rest of the apartment. The lounge area, with its plush seating and handy kitchenette, became our favorite spot to relax after a day of exploring the vibrant streets of Marrakech.
The beds feature medical-grade memory foam mattresses, luxury linen, and both feather and non-allergenic pillows. I certainly slept the best I have in a while in this room and bed!
The apartment showcases how modern design can harmonise with traditional craftsmanship and it made me want to redesign my entire flat back home! Deep green velvets, warm golds, and earthy tones come together to create a room that feels both stylish and welcoming. The signature green couch, designed by a local Marrakech team and upholstered in emerald fabric from Ireland, adds a touch of luxury, complemented perfectly by a handmade brass lamp from the souks and Florence Broadhurst wallpaper. This combination of elements made the room a memorable part of our stay.
Final Thoughts: A Place to Escape
The staff at Riad Botanica were nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, they were welcoming and helpful, assisting with everything from navigating parking to recommending must-visit spots like Bacha Coffee, Ben Youssef Merdersa, and the nearby souks around Jemaa El-Fnaa. Their service was impeccable, making us feel like valued guests throughout our stay.
Breakfast at Riad Botanica - a generous spread of eggs (however you like them), bread, fresh fruit, homemade yogurt & granola, mint tea and coffee.
Missed the opportunity to book a night during your next visit? No worries – they offer a range of passes to enjoy the riad's serene ambiance without needing to book a room.
This pass allows you to enjoy a starter, main course, and dessert while relaxing by the pool.
Ready to Experience Riad Life for Yourself?
Riad Botanica
78 Derb Sidi Lahcen o Ali, Bab Doukkala, Medina, 40030 Marrakech, Morocco
WhatsApp: +212 701191951