Riad Alkemia | TC4088 | Traditional riad in Marrakech Medina with 6 bedrooms and plunge pool

Riad Alkemia is a quintessential 18th century Moroccan riad that enjoyed a complete restoration in 2019, and it's classic structure and wonderful original architectural elements were all thoughtfully preserved. This staffed traditional riad offers four bedrooms and a two bedroom suite with the capacity for a third bedroom in the suite lounge, plunge pool and roof terrace. The riad is a peaceful refuge, tucked away in a quiet alley far from the hustle and bustle of the markets yet only a ten minute walk from the Djemaa el Fna square, the heart of the medina, and less than five minutes from the Ben Youssef Madrasa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

Riad Alkemia
The bright white walls are infused with the powerful history of the space and framed by ancient Berber doorways. Arabesque brass lamps playfully reflect designs on the walls; an enchanting showcase of the life that local artisans can impart on their delicate, handcrafted treasures. Each detail is the result of painstaking research, intentionally chosen, with the ability to tell us their stories through three hundred years of history. Alkemia is spread out over 3 floors and can comfortably accommodate up to 15 guests in 7 spacious bedrooms. At your disposal a patio with pool, a traditional hammam, a cosy lounge area and a beautiful terrace. Each corner of the riad offers a calming environment where you can immerse yourself in the true spirit of the space and reinvigorate your soul. Alkemia is a captivating and serene hideaway; and that's exactly how we want you to experience it.
Ground floor
Patio - You'll find yourself in the heart of the riad, a welcoming yet private open-air oasis. Here, the water feature and natural stone stand out, giving life to the first taste of the sensory journey that will last for the entirety of your stay
You'll hear the relaxing sound of water cascading from a fountain into a swimming pool bordered by four majestic palm trees
You can even see the blue sky of Marrakech reflected across the surface. Now, crossing the patio, just behind the fountain, you'll find the bhou, a tiny, cushioned snug that beckons you and your travel companions to come inside. Relax and enjoy the first of many mint teas… your holiday has finally begun!
Sitting Room - Moving on to the sitting room, you'll want to sink into the sofa, as you take in the reflections on the swimming pool through the ancient wrought iron windows. It's the ideal place to relax; you'll be immersed in a tiny world that is all your own, surrounded by soft colours and low lighting, lulled to sleep by the crackling fireplace or the rustle of the pages of a book
Aisha Room (Bedroom 1) - Turn right and you will find the Aisha Room. A double bedroom by the pool, with a view looking out onto the patio. Open the carved wooden door, and you'll find yourself in a space showcasing the splendour of Berber design. A beautiful, coloured lamp hangs from the original wooden beams on the ceiling. This private, cozy room is made even more romantic by an inviting four-poster bed. The furnishings of the bedroom, and the en-suite bathroom, are simple yet distinctive and elegant
Fatima Room (Bedroom 2) - Continue to the right, and you'll enter the Fatima Room. A room for two in the typical Berber style. A large window looks out onto the courtyard, and allows natural sunlight, filtered through the palm trees and reflected off the pool, to flood the room. The room is complete with a large en-suite bathroom, fitted with every comfort and furnished with traditional elegance. Room can be made up as a double or twin.
First floor
Zen Area - Ascend the stairs near the entrance and you will find yourself in a tranquil corner of the riad that is perfect for relaxing and quiet contemplation. It's an attractive covered terrace where breakfast and dinner can be enjoyed in the colder months, or aperitifs and other events, overlooking the courtyard and swimming pool
In the centre of the Zen Area, tables with geometric designs and a distinctly textured finish display the strong bond between Berber craftsmanship and the land. Exposed wooden beams, reed details, and masonry arches frame this vibrant and inspirational space
Maha Room (Bedroom 3) - Continuing through the riad and you will find the Maha Room. A Berber-style room for two, complete with high ceilings and a large window overlooking the Zen Area, which provides a beautiful, diffused natural light. Unique musical instruments hang from the walls, giving the room a special charm and character. A large en-suite bathroom completes this bedroom. Room can be made up as a double or twin
Malika Room (Bedroom 4) - Just off the balcony is the Malika Room: a bright and airy space perfect for up to three guests. Opening up onto its own private balcony, you can enjoy the splendid views of the courtyard and pool below. The room is made complete by a spacious walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom. The room can be made up as a double or twin and also has a separate single bed. 
Talitha Suite (Bedroom 5 & 6) - Over to the side opposite the decorative railing you'll find the Talitha Suite. A true journey into the depths of the riad, and an unexpected, wonderful stop on your Moroccan holiday. An 80 sqm suite that can accommodate up to six people, consisting of two bedrooms, a lounge, and two bathrooms. It is a luxurious space created out of an antique douiria, or 'small house'
The entrance welcomes you into what is truly a feast for the eyes, a high cedar ceiling adorned with characteristic and refined hand-painted designs which dates back at least three hundred years. It is further embellished by a magnificent chandelier
The main sitting room, which can transform into a comfortable double room if needed, leads you on the right-hand side into another double room which boasts a colourful coffered ceiling. Guests of this bedroom can use a bathroom which is accessed via the lounge. It's fitted with a large shower and features a wooden ceiling that is sure to leave you speechless. There is also a second double bedroom with an en-suite bathroom to the left of the lounge. Looking up, you will be amazed by the stucco dome ceiling and an impressive hand-crafted chandelier, evocative of the imagery found in One Thousand and One Nights.
Roof terrace
Marrakech is a city full of charm, and its terraces are in a way symbolic of its spirit. Its unique and elegant vistas are a fascinating mix of colours, silhouettes, and patterns which play games with light and shadows to create endless mesmerizing photographic effects. It's right here on the second-floor terrace, the perfect spot for relaxation, that all your senses will be satisfied as you breathe in the scent of jasmine, and the blossoming white bougainvillea beautifully compliments the soft shades of the space. Let yourself be captivated by the flavours and aromas of the local cuisine when the terrace is transformed into a magical dinner spot, the ideal setting for a meal enjoyed under the stars, whether it be shared with the chatter of friends, or in peaceful quietude. Have a look at the covered section of the terrace and relax on a couch or one of the many large, brightly coloured hassocks. The perfect place to enjoy the ritual of fragrant mint tea. Enjoy the last cup of the day prepared by Lhouessine or spend a relaxing morning letting the sun warm your skin, cooling off from time to time in the shower. Or, simply enjoy the colors and aromas wafting by during sunset. No matter what you choose, each moment spent up on the terrace is sure to be an unforgettable experience, the high point of your trip.
Location
It's a magical place where aromas, sounds, tastes, and sensations make you feel the pulse of the alluring "Red City." An authentic Moroccan riad that was completely restored in 2019, all the while preserving its structure and original architectural elements such as the wooden ceilings, stucco dome, and exposed beams. Roughly 10 minutes from the Djemaa El Fna square, through the souk, the riad is spread out over 3 floors, and can comfortably accommodate up to 14 guests, offering 7 spacious bedrooms and 6 bathrooms. A space rented just to individual private groups, so it will be reserved exclusively for you and your traveling companions.
Staff
Khalid - The day manager, Khalid will be at your service to welcome you during your stay. He will give you many tips about Marrakech and any kind of help, arranging activities, SPA and restaurants. Careful and smart, he will charm you with his lovely smile, and make you feel like if you are in your home
Abdelrasak - The handyman, is reserved and dependable, someone you can always count on. Abdelrasak takes care of the swimming pool, the plants, and other errands. In short, he works behind the scenes to make sure the riad always looks its best
Bouchra - The cook, sweet as can be and always smiling, takes care of the kitchen and cleaning. Bouchra will be the one to tidy your rooms and is always happy to share her passion for cooking, and if you're lucky, some of her culinary secrets, too!
Nourredine -Our night manager: devoted, cheerful, and caring, Nourredine will be the one to welcome you if you arrive at night, and he'll always be one to serve dinner. If you wish, you can end your day by sharing an evening cup of tea and a chat with him.
Please note that, as is usual for Moroccan Riad accommodation, the riad is staffed 24 hours a day with Bouchra living in the riad and Nourredine will be present at the riad throughout each night.
Food and Beverage
A daily breakfast consisting of local specialties and high-quality ingredients is included and is served up on the roof terrace (weather dependent). Eggs, fresh fruits, sweet and savory msemen (a traditional layered type of flatbread), baghrir (local crepe), homemade cakes, various breads and pastries, jams, honey, butter, yogurt, cheese and an assortment of fresh orange juice, teas and coffee make up the rich variety on offer. There are plenty of places to eat in Marrakech, however if you do not fancy heading out then Bouchra is on hand to prepare lunch or dinner, there is a menu available (2 course for 220DH/£17, 3 course 260DH/£20), meals can be booked each morning. Tea, coffee, soft drinks, beer and wine are all available to purchase during your stay.
Wellness and Hammam
An integral part of the Moroccan experience that shouldn't be missed is a trip to the hammam. An ancient ritual that is still a fundamental part of the local culture today. Opening the door, you'll find yourself in a room with soft light emanating from the glow of candles nestled in small arched alcoves on the walls. Go through the ancient door inside the massage room, and make yourself comfortable in the hammam, where you can treat yourself to the pleasures of an authentic ancestral experience. A journey of well-being that relaxes the mind and cleanses the body. Even the products used in the various treatments are the result of recipes that have been handed down over generations. Black Soap, which not only leaves you feeling fresh and clean, but also eliminates toxins and revitalizes even the deepest layers of your skin, Rhassoul, a clay that has been enriched with essential oils, which works to soften and brighten your skin, making it like silk to the touch, and Kessa, a special glove used to exfoliate and, finally, the Argan Oil, which is used during the massage to nourish, moisturize, and regenerate the skin are all things that you can expect in the hammam experience. Book the wellness program you prefer to relax your mind and cleanse your body..
Activities
Khalid will be on hand during the day and will be happy to help you arrange day excursions, a cooking lesson with Bouchra, activities, taxis, drivers for the day to explore the Atlas Mountains or reservations at restaurants.