Palais El Arsat & Spa
Chain: Not Available
Description
Luxurious Riad in Marrakesh Medina
Outdoor Swimming Pool and Sunbathing Terrace
Riad El Arsat offers a tranquil escape in the bustling Medina with its refreshing outdoor pool and relaxing sunbathing terrace, perfect for unwinding under the Moroccan sun.
Comfortable Rooms with Modern Amenities
Each guest room at the Riad is a sanctuary of comfort, featuring air conditioning, a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries, and a minibar for ultimate relaxation. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi in public areas.
Convenient Services and Activities
With an airport shuttle service, car rental options, and rejuvenating massage therapy available, Riad El Arsat ensures a seamless and enjoyable stay for all guests. Book now for an unforgettable experience!
Sentiment Analysis
Friendly staff
Great location
Beautiful garden
Attentive service
Popular Amenities
Health or beauty spa nearby
Guest education on local ecosystems and culture
Non-smoking rooms
Air conditioning
Swimming pool
Restaurant
Terrace
Safety deposit box
Tour desk
Soundproof rooms
Ironing service
Car hire
Massage services
Hammam
Shared lounge/TV area
Shuttle service (additional charge)
Concierge service
Kid meals
Availability Side
Terrasse Double Room
The room features a four-poster bed and a view of the swimming pool.
Suite
Consists of interconnecting rooms and features a terrace overlooking the garden.
Rouge Double Room
An extra bed is available in this room upon request and at an additional charge.
Blanche Double Room
The room features a terrace with views of the exotic garden.
Nouvelle Double Room
This double room's special feature is the fireplace. This air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroo...
Deluxe Junior Suite
This suite's special feature is the fireplace. The air-conditioned suite features 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a bath. Featuring...
Double or Twin Room
This twin/double room features a fireplace. This air-conditioned twin/double room is consisted of of a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private b...
Guest Sentiment Categories
Cleanliness
Guests appreciated the overall cleanliness, although some minor issues were reported.
Service
Service was highly praised by guests for being attentive and courteous.
Location
The hotel's central location in the city was a highlight for guests, offering easy access to key attractions.
Room Quality
Rooms were described as authentic and comfortable, although some guests suggested improvements in mattress quality.
Amenities
Guests found the amenities satisfactory, with positive mentions of the garden, pool, and views.
Value for Money
Mixed reviews on value for money, with some guests finding it reasonable and others suggesting higher pricing for services offered.
Food and Beverage
Food and beverage services received positive feedback overall, with some suggestions for improvement in variety.
Overall Experience
Most guests had an exceptional overall experience, praising the hospitality and serene atmosphere of the hotel.
Hotel Rules
Check-In / Check-Out Policy
Check In
2:00 PM
Check Out
12:00 PM
Check In Start
12 AM
Check In Ends
3 PM
Hotel Policies
Hotel Important Information
Show LessPlease inform of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.
Reviews (99)
Patrick
4 days ago
9.0
Acceuil par le proprietaire et son personnel
steen
1 week ago
8.0
Jean Marc
2 weeks ago
10.0
emplacement parfait , petit dejeuner tres bon et accueil super , un lieu exceptionel
Adrian
2 weeks ago
10.0
Breakfasts were good, the eggs and tomato tagine was lovely. The Riad is in a very quiet area, away from the crowds. Charles is the perfect host and his team can’t do enough for you. Jeli was a star.
Thierry
2 weeks ago
9.0
Le charme , l’emplacement très central tout en étant très calme , la gentillesse des employés
Cons: Rien
Simon
3 weeks ago
9.0
ppt
3 weeks ago
9.0
Carl
3 weeks ago
10.0
We booked this last minute and went from the reviews and the fact everyone mentioned Charles! True to the reviews we were not disappointed, Charles was a fantastic host, nothing was too much trouble, the facilities where authentic and rich with culture, the property was located so close to everything but so far away from the hustle! A special mention for Jerry, such a cool guy and really helpful!! The BONUS detail not a lot of people mention where the two small dogs Sam and Lucy, a true family run business and a pleasure to be hosted there. Well don’t to the entire team for making our stay so enriched!
Cons: Totally my fault for booking so late but I would have loved a bigger room with a bigger bed!
François
1 month ago
10.0
L'accueil et l'accompagnement par Monsieur Charles était parfait. L'ensemble du personnel a été fantastique. La nourriture était parfaite. Le cadre est paradisiaque.
Cons: Dans notre chambre, une séparation avec les commodités aurait été la bienvenue.
Rachel
1 month ago
10.0
The owners are charming and helped us out in every way. The staff were also super helpful and kind. The property itself is beautiful and very calm while still being situated in the centre.
Daniëlle
1 month ago
8.0
Prachtige plek midden in de Medina. Hier had je totaal geen last van de drukte en hectiek die je had in de kleine straatjes. Alles was goed lopend te ondernemen.
Cons: De rust en mooie tuin . Vragen werden keurig behandeld, personeel wat rondliep was beleefd en vriendelijk.
JB
1 month ago
10.0
De rust, de verzorging, het eten, de staf.
Victoria
1 month ago
10.0
Can't recommend the Riad El Arsat highly enough. It's a beautiful oasis of calm right in the Medina. Charles and his team couldn't have been more helpful and make you feel instantly at home. The rooms are just gorgeous, and along with the wonderful garden and pool, it's the perfect place to retreat to after wandering through the Medina.
HSP
1 month ago
10.0
Fabulous riad with a beautiful garden. The staff are attentive and kind, the decor is lovely and carefully done, and it is very quiet yet right in the heart of the medina about halfway to everything.
Cons: Nothing negative to say at all.
Marianne
4 months ago
10.0
Martin
6 months ago
8.0
Charles & his staff were very helpful & accommodating
Cons: Very minor gripes - no hooks to hang up dressing gowns/jackets & no alcohol licence.
Marcel
7 months ago
10.0
Jochen
7 months ago
8.0
Amazing and peaceful riad in the middle of the Medina with close walking distance to all sites, amazing host and wonderful, attentive staff
Cons: The room was lovely and super authentic but our mattresses need to be replaced
Piero
7 months ago
10.0
Gorgeous boutique hotel with a very convenient location. Such lovely staff and Charles, the owner was so helpful. Food was the best we had in Marrakesh and I would stay again in a flash.
Graham
7 months ago
10.0
Our appearance in Marrakech was met by a storm, mix Marrakech with any storm a combination I wouldn’t wish again. Out of the darkness shone a light a bright and fierce light, a Riad the likes of which dreams await Mr Charles or Charles Arbousset to the unfamiliar awaited with a crew whose existence is the embodiment of service which is rarely achieved. Salma & Abdeljalil lieutenants of our host complimented the establishment beyond measure. Their commitment to their craft is palpable and it’s to be nurtured. The place is an oasis to be savoured before such a place is no longer exists. Spend time there, experience what this place is was is going on to be. Pass by this place and your loss is another’s gift. We consider these friends in an outpost far from home a home from home what more is there?
Hovorka
7 months ago
10.0
Authentic. Beautiful garden. Oasis. Charles and his team are awesome
Andreas
7 months ago
10.0
The owner Charles and his Riad friendly staff exceeded our expectations. A short holiday with all wishes fulfilled.
Victoria
8 months ago
10.0
This is an exceptional place , run by the magnificent Charles who makes you feel as if you are the only guest staying there. Nothing is too much trouble for him or for his wonderful staff. It’s a really special Riad that feels so homely and full of love but offers a very high quality stay in all regards. The nine rooms are full of character and the internal gardens are lush and a welcome oasis from the bustling Medina. The food is lovely, the beds are super comfy, there’s a great pool and it’s really well located. To finish our stay, we had a hammam bath treatment and massage on site, which was fabulous. We really didn’t want to leave after our two night stay. I can’t recommend this place highly enough.
Cons: Nothing. It was the perfect choice for a stay in the Medina.
Ahmad
8 months ago
10.0
A very tranquil setting and very helpful manager and the staff.
Cons: A bigger bathroom
Ml
8 months ago
10.0
Upon our arrival, we were first greeted by Agnes Arbousset, as her brother was temporarily out of town. She extended a warm welcome, offering us a delightful cup of mint tea and homemade biscuits while she organized the necessary paperwork prior to escorting us to our accommodations. A few days later, Charles Arbousset, Agnes' brother, returned, and together they continued to provide exemplary care during our stay. The entire staff at el Arsat is courteous and attentive, significantly contributing to an unforgettable experience. At our next opportunity, we should consider visiting Mirleft, located south of Agadir, to experience their hospitality along the coastline.
Cons: We encountered some minor deficiencies, such as the availability of toilet paper, shower gel, and shampoo; however, the staff consistently addressed these issues promptly and with a positive demeanor. This situation may serve as an opportunity to cultivate rapport among guests, fostering a pleasant environment and allowing for the exchange of courteous interactions.
Lucy
9 months ago
10.0
Beautiful peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. The loveliest garden in the Medina. Great pool. Stunning views of the Atlas mountains from the pergola on the roof terrace. Staff were charming and helpful and nothing was too much trouble.
Craig
9 months ago
10.0
Fabulous atmosphere Fantastic service Cosy and great attention to detail Authentic We had a wonderful stay Peaceful property away from hustle and bustle
Cons: N/A
Stoakes
9 months ago
10.0
We were very pleased with our choice of hotel and location. Delightful, authentic hotel, totally quiet, tucked away in a large private garden with lots of trees, many places for relaxing and catching sun and shade in the garden and at upper levels. High standard of interior furnishing including a beautiful dining room. Excellent location in the Medina only a short walk from the main square and the souk and other attractions. Hotel owners and staff very welcoming and helpful especially with advice for us about where to go and getting us dependable taxis.
Cons: We liked everything about it.
Stoakes
9 months ago
7.0
Rosalind
10 months ago
9.0
Jonathan
10 months ago
8.0
Matteo
11 months ago
8.0
Tom
11 months ago
9.0
Lovely garden and rooms in heart of the Medina, an oasis in the hustle of the city. Minutes from the main souk. Friendly staff. Good food.
Lauretta
11 months ago
10.0
The most beautiful riad with gardens as nice as those you would pay to visit! Birds and turtles it feels like walking into paradise off the medina. The staff and owners were all exceptionally attentive and it was a pleasure to stay at such a beautiful home, even coming home to a lit fire in the room and tea on the balcony all made the stay so perfect! I would highly recommend staying it this authentic majestic riad!
Cons: Could have a little more light in the room and the WiFi could be better but otherwise perfection thank you!
Vanessa
1 year ago
10.0
This is an exceptionally historical and beautiful riad. One of few spectacular gardens in the medina along with comfortable outside pool with loungers. All staff were warmly welcoming and front desk could arrange airport shuttles, day trips and general info and help. The location is central to the palaces in the south of the medina and the famous gardens to the north.
Cons: We stayed in the titouan lamazou room as a twin. The bed is in an alcove so whether split or together as a double, standing space around it is tight. The bathroom was delivered as 2 units, 1 as a shower cubicle which was adequate, the other as toilet and basin which was difficult. Little space to layout toiletries or wash comfortably. The main room itself is beautiful with a spacious feel and the modifications have obviously been dictated by the historical foot print of the riad. Other rooms at the Riad seemed to have larger bathrooms, but all, including ours, are sumptuous with a high level of detail.
Clare
1 year ago
10.0
Stunning property with a lovely family atmosphere. Huge garden, lovely staff, delicious tagline. Very helpful regarding places to go and taxi’s to order . I hope to be back
Cons: Nothing
Matthew
1 year ago
9.0
Christine
1 year ago
10.0
Loved staying here! Charles and his team truly give a high level of service and are very friendly. Charles has lots of helpful advice of ideas of places to go to and restaurants to try out. The property is a true oasis from the busy medina. The property is beautiful and my room was like a tiny house within the lush gardens. Highly recommend you stay here.
Cons: Nothing.
Katie
1 year ago
10.0
It’s a little oasis in the middle of the Medina! You walk 10 mins to the square but can’t hear anything inside, it’s a little paradise! You can sunbathe by the pool or go out and explore. The staff are exceptional, especially Jalli, we adore him, always there! Would recommend to everyone
Cons: Nothing, great experience. The pool is cold but sometimes needed!
Edward
1 year ago
10.0
Calm, relaxing, tranquil with beautiful facilities and unbelievably polite and helpful staff.
James
1 year ago
10.0
Lancaster
1 year ago
10.0
Fabulous Riad in the beating heart of the old town. Within easy walking distance of the bustling souks and the main square,but amazingly quiet and peaceful inside - with trees, birds, and even a few tortoises! Breakfast was lovely, the staff were incredibly helpful (especially Ghali, who was always on hand with water, lovely local wines and tasty little snacks). Many thanks to Agnès and Charles, the owners, who made our stay (and my birthday) so enjoyable.
Cons: I honestly can't think of anything that we didn't like!
Osama
1 year ago
1.0
Abdi
1 year ago
9.0
A delightful stay! Its centrally located so perfect to explore the old town. The Riad itself is beautiful with charming gardens, and a fresh, lovely breakfast. The staff were wonderful, and Charles was exceptionally helpful and welcoming. I'd gladly stay here again!
Cons: It would’ve been nice to have water in our rooms every day, not just on arrival.
Helen
1 year ago
10.0
Beautiful courtyard gardens with tastefully and authentically decorated rooms. Fantastic welcome from owner Charles and great service from all the staff at the Riad. It really felt like we were at home & part of a family whilst we were there.
Cons: Liked everything and although apprehensive about the long narrow alleyway to reach the main door especially on arrival late at night we soon realised it was perfectly safe and was all part of the experience of staying in the old town. Would definitely recommend the private transfer arranged by Riad as would have been difficult to find otherwise.
Judy
1 year ago
10.0
It was a beautiful property in a great location.
Cons: It was all great!
Paul
1 year ago
10.0
I loved absolutely everything about my stay at Riad Elarsat. The staff were absolutely fantastic, Charles is always keen to help with taxxi bookings, guides on where to eat and drink in the medina, Mustafa always checking to see if I needed a drink when I got back or was at the pool, and the staff always quick with food or to assist with anything, and always smiling and welcoming. The place itself is absolutely wonderful - hidden down a small street as many Riads are, but then you get a wonderful building with a fantastic beautiful courtyard area, places to sit in the sun or shade, including the rooftop terraces, and of course a lovely pool area (right outside the Piscine room which I picked to stay in). I also had a hammam and massage at the spa, fantastic to have that available on site as an added extra!
Cons: I loved everything, just wish I was still there!
Christian
1 year ago
10.0
Amazing place, probably the only Riad in the city with such a huge (!) garden. (And we have seen a few)…
Alexandra
1 year ago
1.0
Glen
1 year ago
9.0
Perfect Riad. Great staff and superb attentiveness. An Oasis of calm away from the hustle of the Medina. Lovely food and drink and a great room.
Cons: Nothing
Nicola
1 year ago
10.0
Relaxed and comfortable - a quiet haven in the bustle of the city
Peter
1 year ago
10.0
Beautiful Riad, with lovely gardens
Myriam
1 year ago
10.0
We had a remarkable stay at the Riad El Arsat. The grounds and pool are even more beautiful than the pictures, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. It is a peaceful paradise right at the center of the Medina. Nicole and Charles were wonderful hosts and we enjoyed learning about the history of their Riad and their lives in Morocco. The service of the team of staff Rajaa, Mustafa and Hassan were also incredibly warm and generous. The rooms are tastefully beautifully decorated and the breakfast was delicious. I could not imagine a better place to stay. 10/10 we will be back.
Cons: Nothing.
Mustafa
1 year ago
9.0
Andrew
1 year ago
10.0
Breakfast was excellent and set us up for the day. Flexible on times. The Hotel was in the old town/ Medina area and set amongst palm trees in a wonderfully green garden - a haven from the hustle and bustle outside. It was beautifully quiet except for the singing and chirping birds. Nicole was our host and couldn't do enough to help us. Mustafa organised anything we needed and the other staff were all great.
Cons: Nothing. It was all great.
Yara
1 year ago
8.0
Very nice courtyard house beautifully decorated with a unique garden in the heart of the historic centre. Overall very enjoyable experience. The breakfast was memorable the stars, the roof terrace, the birds And of course Nicole the owner with her care and hospitality.
Peter
1 year ago
10.0
Beautiful rooms and wonderful staff Could not commend highly enough. Ate there every night as the food was so good.
Cons: Nothing
Laura
1 year ago
10.0
Beautifully decorated, calm, wonderful service.
Aiden
1 year ago
10.0
Hans
1 year ago
9.0
Magic Place! With a very privat atmosphere. perfectly located to explore the medina. an totaly quiet refugium in the busy heart of Marrakesh.
Cons: Next time I would book directly and not about Booking.com / because of the Price
Alexej
2 years ago
10.0
Great place with french owners. Comfortable accommodation, every room is different. It is possible to have food and vine here. Atmosphere is so nice and friendly. It is in the very centre of the old city. We jad here also hammam and it was very good as well!
Mette
2 years ago
9.0
extremely friendly, wonderful riad in a perfect location with nice facilities, staff and food. highly recommendable
Cons: location, food, staff
Georgina
2 years ago
10.0
Everything was perfect - we enjoyed our honeymoon at this beautiful Riad, expertly helmed by Charles and his team. The Riad is full of history with stunning grounds and rooms. The breakfast and food was delicious - and for the mint tea, the best in Marrakesh! We have to say Charles and his team have effortlessly crafted an ambiance of tranquility and elegance that exceeded all expectations.
Cons: not applicable
Yohai
2 years ago
9.0
Everything
Cons: There is a problem with the flow of water in the shower mainly in the evening. This is a known problem in Marrakech
Brian
2 years ago
10.0
Fantastic location in a peaceful sanctuary close to the medina; Charles and the team do an amazing job looking after you; amazing history in the building
Cons: Nothing
Victoria
2 years ago
10.0
The host Charles and all his staff were very friendly and could not do enough for you. Charles recommended some me fab restaurants and guided us through things to do and visit.
Cons: The only thing was the bathroom as no stand up shower, a less abled person would struggle to get out of the bath. Also the water pressure was very low but maybe as an old property this is a quirk.
Caroline
2 years ago
10.0
John
2 years ago
9.0
Excellent location, yet cool and peaceful an oasis in the Medina. Helpful and friendly staff and owner, excellent advice on places to go where to eat etc. Lovely pool good food places to sit, breakfast outside. Flexible, hard to fault. Will highly recommend to friends and family. Beautifully restored. Mature gardens, trees cacti and flowers, and cool in the heat.
Cons: Very minor - no shower holder and water pressure not the best, could do with some sort of shower screen. Pushing it now but could provide directions to the nearest drop off point for cars as final approach is by foot.
Gerard
2 years ago
9.0
The location was perfect and very quiet. The hosts and personnel were very hospital and helpfull
Cons: Everthing was of a high standard
Patricia
2 years ago
10.0
Russ
2 years ago
9.0
Everything ! An oasis & blissful place to stay. The reviews are a true reflection of the Riad. So pleased we avoided the soulless and dull hotel chains... Staff were the best you'll ever experience. The owners a delight.
Cons: Having to leave.
Susan
2 years ago
10.0
The property is beautiful. The space within the property gave us a sense of privacy. The staff were very professional and went over and beyond in carrying out their duties. We were made to feel part of the family. our experience was truly magical. The most relaxed holiday ever and will be back.
Cons: Everything was wonderful.
Julie
2 years ago
10.0
excellent location , fabulous helpful staff , authentic old building with lots of character
Giuseppe
2 years ago
7.0
position, reataurant
Cons: the structure is very beautiful but uncomfortable: steep stairs and cramped rooms. management and personnel difficulties are not eligible at these very high prices
Martin
2 years ago
9.0
Beautiful Riad, with lovely garden. A unique setting, highly recommended. Excellent food and great location
Adam
2 years ago
10.0
amazing location and garden very welcoming and helpful staff our host Nicole couldn’t have been more obliging, even took us rug shopping Highly recommended
Cons: everything was excellent
Michael
2 years ago
9.0
We stayed at Riad El Arsat in the Medina and thoroughly appreciated our time there. What made it different? Spacious with palm trees, a pool, vegetation and tortoises! The home very clean with pleasant decoration, ambiance, with a lit fireplace in our room every night. Familiar attention by owner and natural, attentive members of staff who recommended interesting places to visit. The Riad organised a day trip to the Atlas Mountains (Imlil and the Kik Plateau) - the driver Rashid was very good and safe. We met with a local guide, Abdul, in the mountains and he took us for a hike and then for a wonderful lunch at his family home, looking out over the valley and the snow capped peaks. Abdul spoke good english and was knowledgeable and forthcoming. The Riad is a haven of tranquility in the middle of the excitement and press of the Medina. Overall, a calm, very pleasant stay.
John
2 years ago
10.0
Beautiful Garden .Two lovely dogs. Gracious helpful Host and staff,sunny balcony.After spending time in the bustle of the Medina returning to the oasis of the Riad was special.
Cons: Very minor issue Shower Head needs adjusted.
Amanda
2 years ago
10.0
We were made to feel very welcome. The service was perfect throughout the day and the setting is beautiful. The breakfast was generous and excellent. The room was clean and the facilities were perfect for us.
Cons: nothing could have been better.
Eyelar
2 years ago
10.0
The riad was absolutely magical. From the interior, to the food, the super friendly staff who made us feel comfortable and all a 5 min walk to the medina
Cons: nothing i didnt like
Ian
3 years ago
10.0
This Riad is full of character and yet a quiet oasis in such a lively city (apart from the call to prayer which you cannot escape wherever you are staying). It has its very own 'secret' garden and the staff are so friendly and informative. Breakfast was plentiful each morning and lunch and dinner is available upon request. The main square is about 10 minutes walk away and although the city streets seem daunting at first, you quickly find your way and most places are within reasonable walking distances. We were fortunate enough to stay in the Suite room which has a shared terrace bathed in sunshine in November.
Cons: This is a very old Riad and anyone staying should not expect 5* perfection of facilities e.g. the odd lamp or electrical socket may not work. There are some quirky features such as small doors and old creaky furniture but this adds to the Riads character. Personally, I would prefer an extra, softer pillow on my bed, so may be worth taking one with you. But this is Africa, so leave your European or US standards at home and embrace the change.
Mark
3 years ago
10.0
Alice
3 years ago
10.0
The Riad can only be described as wonderful. It is located in a central area of the Medina, a 7 min walk from the main square, but feels like being in a parallel world and super relaxed. The staff is spot on, as are the owner and his dog Sam. I recommend eating there, you will not be disappointed.
Nikki
3 years ago
10.0
Peter
3 years ago
9.0
Amazing friendly owners Charles and Nicole couldn’t do enough to make me feel welcome. Riad El Arsat is stylish with a central location and a large pool to relax by after a day sightseeing - difficult to surpass that combination inside the Medina.
Cons: A degree warmer in the pool… solar heating is on the way!
Yaron
3 years ago
10.0
It’s spacious, beautiful, a true oasis. our hosts were superbly helpful and accommodating, helpful, gracious.
Anonymous
3 years ago
2.0
Excellent staff and clearly a lot of love put into the cooking.
Cons: - Scam listing (most of the advertised facilities are not available) - Unsafe for solo female travellers - Bedroom door did not lock - No hot water - No electricity Aside from the fact I chose to cut my stay short to a painful two nights as a result of the above, the property showcases disturbing colonial and oriental relics. These include but are not limited to literature, photographs, not to mention racist statues. Out of the 1500+ riads Marrakesh has to offer, I strongly suggest opting for one that holds more reviews at the risk of being scammed by the owner, which here was clearly the case. Although the staff is excellent, the owner stands out with intimidating gestures and threatening comebacks should you voice any of the above out loud. Do absolutely avoid as a single female traveller. Very sorry to have experienced this alone and especially on Booking.com
Raul
3 years ago
10.0
We stayed three days at El Arsat and loved it. It was the best accomodation during our time in Marrakech. Charles is a great host, who gave very helpful insights and who was always happy to help. El Arsat is an oasis inside the busy and noisy medina. The huge garden and the pool are a great place to relax. The location is perfect to visit most of Marrakech’s sights by foot. If needed taxis can stop close to the riad, which is not generally not the case with other accomodations in the medina. The moroccan breakfast was tasty and the internet was working fine from our room.
Nera
3 years ago
8.0
- Location of Riyadh was great. Close to all important things, and main square. - Staff was just very pleasant and ready to help. We had some small dispute on a first day in regards of finding the Riyadh and how to reach it with car, but we sorted it out very fast. Imad was very helpful with our suitcases. - Cleaning ladies and kitchen staff were amazing, very helpful. - Charles, owner, organized a tour guide for the Marrakech medina. Guide was very professional and we had quite nice time.
Cons: - Room - unpractical toilet (so small that you can barely fit). - Swimming pool - it would be nice to have some warmer water. I tried swimming and it was a bit cold (end of September visit) - Breakfast - more savory options would be nice. I have heard that eggs can be optional, but with extra pay. This was not communicated to me so I can not confirm. If true, it is silly practice and this is the first time I heard about it in 19 years of travel around the world.
Sean
3 years ago
10.0
The garden is incredible. An oasis in every sense. The turtles, the friendly dogs, the food, staff and rooms are all great. Big pool, very chic decor. Probably the best hotel I've ever stayed in.
Verified traveler
6 years ago
10.0
When researching our trip to Marrakech my husband and I were torn between wanting to be within walking distance of the main square, and wanting a relaxing, calm vibe and pool area to swim and sunbathe. The good news is: you don't have to choose! We had the most wonderful stay, Riad el Arsat is truly a peaceful oasis where the only sound you can hear is birdsong and you are surrounded by beautiful flowers and trees. The owner, Charles, is charming and knowledgeable with seemingly endless patience! He was always available with valuable tips, recommendations and directions. He gave us guide prices for various things so we didnt get ripped off and knew how much to barter down to, as well as arranging transport for the day which was much more reasonable than taxis on the street. The food was delicious, room was beautifully decorated in Moroccan style. Location absolutely perfect- 10 minute walk to main square. The front door is manned 24/7 and very secure. All in all we couldn't fault it, thank you Charles and staff for an amazing few days.
Verified traveler
6 years ago
8.0
Nel complesso è doveroso dare un giudizio positivo , L’edificio è molto spazioso e architettonicamente interessante però le camere sono molto piccole la cosa a. Io avviso inaccettabile che le camere siano prive di riscaldamento se si esclude un coreografico caminetto che però svolge solo parzilemente il suo complito , oltretutto la legna a disposizione era contingentata ......sono dovuto andare a cercarmela in giro . Colazione appena sufficiente è assai monotona . La cosa che però non gradito è la pretesa di un maggior costo su quello pattuito con Expedia accampando incomprensibili e lacunose scuse su ipotetiche differenze di cambio di valuta . Dopo quasi 100 prenotazioni con expedia è stata la prima volta che mi è successa una cosa del genere ........dal momento che si parlava di poche decine di euro ho preferito pagare senza tante polemiche , ripromettendomi però di segnalare il comportamento della direzione a mio avviso poco corretto . Ho avuto la netta sensazione che volessero lucrare su tutto. Per concludere credo che a questo livello di prezzo non sia difficile trovare di meglio a Marrakech .
Jane
7 years ago
10.0
This is a very authentic and spacious riad with a most beautiful garden and pool. It’s perfectly situated for exploring the souks of the northern medina and then the less hassled southern medina. We arrived late to be greeted by, the wonderful, Mustapha, a roaring fire and a delicious candlelit dinner. We were looked after so well throughout our stay. We loved having a fire lit in our room on our return in the afternoon.. Charles, the owner, was hugely helpful with recommends on where to go and made restaurant reservations for us. We usually stay in the Palmeraie but really enjoyed our stay at El Arsat; it surpassed our expectations with the charming service and it being an absolutely beautiful riad; not just a squashed in converted house.
Verified traveler
9 years ago
10.0
I've stayed in many 5 star hotels - Ritz Carlton, Mandarin, etc - and although the digs could get fancier, this was without a doubt, the best hotel experience I've ever had. The rooms are beautiful and sufficient, each with its own fireplace, comfortable bedding, and charming decor. But the big difference in quality comes from the incredible warmth of hosts Charles and Agnes, and their wonderful staff. I truly felt like a member of the family, and waited on with kindness. Garden is divine, and they have a wonderful sitting room where they serve breakfast and often ends up a salon at night, where you can chat with other guests. Also, if you are a US woman traveling solo it helps a lot to have English speaking hosts who can hook you up to the best restos, hammams, driver, etc. Don't be put off by the alley that El Arsat is situated on. Its perfectly safe, but may feel a little weird when you first arrive. Definitely have them send a driver to pick you up from the airport. Its in the old city, and hard to find if its your first time to Marrakech. Finally, they've got the two cutest dogs in Morroco, Digou and Lucy, two black mini-schnauzers. I miss them already.
jeff
9 years ago
10.0
It felt like being part of a family, lovely, attentive and fun hosts and staff, amazing food, enchanting gardens, and classic Moorish architecture mixed with eclectic aesthetic. Tucked into the Medina at the end of a narrow alley this place is a refuge from the city that feels like a mini Alhambra.
Natascha Bach
9 years ago
10.0
I spent 3 nights here i March with my kids (7 and 9) and had a wonderful stay. Good service, quiet once you get inside fra det busy streets. Breakfast was nice and the pool too. A good balance between a palce to relax and still extremely close to the life in the center of the city. the owner was very helpful and gave good local advice. Karsten - Denmark
hops
10 years ago
10.0
Absolutely loved our stay here. Nicole - the owner was amazing. Lovely to chat with & always willing to help. All of the other staff very helpful & extremely polite. Riad itself is beautiful and right in the mixer so easy to get anywhere. Would def come again
CW
10 years ago
10.0
Gorgeous Riad in the Medina with large leafy garden complete with population of tortoises. Very hospitable - large pots of tea and biscuits, log fires in the bedrooms, delicious breakfast on rose petal scattered tables, and much help with all itinerary planning. A total delight.
P&J
11 years ago
10.0
I think this is now my favourite hotel. Only eight rooms share the largest private garden in the Marrakech medina (it's so big you can easily spot it on Google satellite maps!). On two sides of the garden are arranged sympathetically-restored elegant and comfortable rooms, hammam, jacuzzi, pool, large colonnaded salon, roof terrace etc. The garden itself is dense, bird-filled and shaded by mature palms, jacaranda, bougainvillea, figs and many others. We experienced two of the rooms, having been offered a (free) upgrade. One was on the garden (ground) floor opening onto the pool area and traditionally decorated, the second was on the first floor overlooking the garden and pool and, though more modern, also attractive and very comfortable. The whole has been restored and maintained by Mme Nicole and her family, including the very charming and helpful Charles, our host, who could not have been more welcoming and helpful throughout. Whenever we arrived - either hot and bothered after travel or just being tourists in the 33C heat of the crowded medina - the Riad was cool, shady, welcoming, quiet and comfortable. The food was also delicious. We don't often eat in hotels but we did here, four times in five days. Many Moroccan favourites made an appearance - tagine, pastilla, brochettes, tanjia, couscous. Dinner in the garden with a bottle of rose was a highlight of our day. Breakfast, also in the garden, was very good too. The staff were attentive but discreet.
Verified traveler
12 years ago
10.0
Everything is lovely there, room, food, park, pool, folks...