An oasis of calm in the historic Kaat Benahid district of Central Marrakech is Riad Star, a boutique hotel that’s steeped in history and glamour. What makes Riad Star so unique is that it was previously the home of singer, actress, and civil rights pioneer, Josephine Baker. Upon purchasing the riad, owners Mike and Lucie Wood restored it to reflect the star’s style. They also sourced Josephine memorabilia, including lots from an auction at Casino de Paris, one of the leading Paris music halls where she performed.
If you’re not familiar with what a riad is, it means garden in Arabic and is a type of traditional Moroccan interior garden or courtyard associated with house and palace architecture. Rooms look out onto a cool and shady central garden or courtyard.
Upon arrival we were warmly welcomed and then led to the dining room. On the table there was an incredible three-course meal that was a feast for all of the senses! We devoured a lamb tagine with dates and spices that were accompanied by wonderful side dishes. If you’re not familiar with tagine, the term refers to a stew as well as a clay pot with a conical lid. Dessert was quite healthy and delicious, an avocado, banana, and date smoothie with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Breakfast was served at the time of our choosing and we walked downstairs to a delightful Moroccan breakfast. There were Moroccan pancakes with a variety of fruit and nut spreads, along with cake, yogurt, and fruits. I couldn’t get enough of the delightful dates and juicy pomegranates!
The riad is quite intimate with just thirteen guest rooms. Each of the rooms within the riad are uniquely decorated, but all of them have air conditioning, an iPod dock and flat screen TV. We stayed in the Grace Room that features woodwork and plaster-work by some of Morocco’s finest craftsmen and a nice feature was the meditation pod.
Other wonderful amenities onsite include a dipping pool and rooftop terrace that offers wonderful views of the Medina and from afar one can see the Atlas Mountains. At sunset I enjoyed sitting on the terrace with Moroccan mint tea in hand and watching the vibrant sun set.
The wellness theme continues with Riad Star’s hammam and massage suite. The riad’s personal hammam lady will cleanse away any cares with traditional Moroccan soaps and oils. The riad offers additional massage treatments for a truly relaxing experience.
If guests of Riad Star are looking for some fun, they can visit the amazing ‘dressing up box’ that’s ideal for a roaring 20s themed dinner party. I certainly had fun dressing up in flapper dresses, feather boas, etc. My boyfriend, Matthew looked extremely stylish and handsome in a kaftan and fez hat.
There are so many wonderful things to see and do in Marrakech and Riad Star is the perfect base! The kind and attentive staff are English speaking and offer a complete 24/7 concierge service. They were happy to assist us with booking restaurants, excursions, etc.
Marrakech is a very walkable city and we enjoyed strolling to Jardin Majorelle, the former home of fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent. Other musts include exploring the souks (marketplace) in the Medina of Marrakech and having a spot of Moroccan Tea at Café de France, a classic spot, located right on Jamaa El Fna square.
Overall, I had a wonderful stay at Riad Star. The attentive service, incredible craftsmanship, and beautiful memories made will not escape from my mind. Riad Star is the fourth property within the Marrakech Riad portfolio and each of them have their own distinctive personality. I hope to experience some of their other riads next time I visit Marrakech. Marrakech is truly a special and unique city. I highly recommend you add it to your bucket list if you haven’t already been.
Beautiful 🇲🇦 Can’t wait to plan a trip there.