The hype
Travelers universally praise the staff (especially Abdou) for being genuinely helpful without the usual Medina hustle.
Riad Alena
$150-230/ noche
Reserva esto si You want the cool-kid design DNA of El Fenn without the $600 price tag or the scene-y crowds.
Por qué a la gente le encanta
- Managed by Louis Devereux (son of El Fenn's founder), so the vibe is effortlessly chic
- Only 4 rooms, meaning the rooftop and plunge pool often feel private
- Located in Quartier Laksour, the Medina's 'Beverly Hills'—safe, clean, and close to the action
Resumen rápido: It’s a tiny, stylish sanctuary that feels more like staying at a cool friend's house than a hotel, but don't expect a full-service resort.
Reseñado por @riadlovers: I stayed at Riad Alena and it was pure magic. The private courtyard pool was so refreshing after exploring the Medina, and ending the day with a sunset dinner on the terrace was unforgettable.
Lo que dijeron los huéspedes que se hospedaron aquí
Reality check
Soundproofing is typical for a Riad—internal courtyard noise travels, so if other guests are loud at breakfast, you'll hear it.
- You appreciate interior design—tadelakt walls, mid-century furniture, and curated art
- You want a personal connection with the host and staff
- You prefer a dead-quiet alleyway location that's still 5 minutes from the souks
Limpieza y Mantenimiento
9.2
- Housekeeping: Daily service is thorough; guests consistently describe the riad as 'spotless' and 'immaculate'.
- Bathroom hygiene: Modern tadelakt bathrooms are kept mold-free and fresh.
- Maintenance: Newly refurbished feel; no peeling paint or broken fixtures reported.
- Linens & towels: High-quality, crisp white linens and fluffy towels (El Fenn heritage shows here).
- Odors & scents: Smells of orange blossom and amber, not musty drains.
Sleepability™
8SILENCIOSO
0-4RUIDOSO
4-7.5MODERADO
7.5-10SILENCIOSO
- Echoes from the internal courtyard (breakfast setup, other guests)
- Call to prayer (inevitable in the Medina, but distant)
Antes de reservar
Es bueno saberlo
- Alcohol is available (a rarity in many smaller Riads), with a nice selection of wines and cocktails.
- Breakfast is served wherever you want—rooftop, courtyard, or room.
- The manager Louis runs a charity called 'Skate to Create'—ask him about it!
Qué llevar
- Earplugs (just in case of courtyard echoes)
- Slip-on shoes for moving between your room and the rooftop
- A swimsuit for the plunge pool (April-October only)
Genio de Habitaciones
Mejores opciones
- The 'White Room' (Large Double) for its airy feel and chic minimalist decor
- Any upper-floor room for slightly more privacy from the courtyard
Habitaciones a evitar
- The 'Cosy Double' if you are bringing two large suitcases—it is intimate.
Genio de Solicitud de Habitación – copiar y pegar
“I'd love to request one of the upper-floor rooms, ideally the White Room if available, for a bit more light and privacy.”
Preguntas frecuentes y consejos ocultos
Todo lo que realmente quieres saber antes de reservar.
Is the pool heated?
No, it's a refreshing plunge pool meant for cooling down in the Moroccan heat, not a heated jacuzzi.
Can I get dropped off at the door?
No, taxis stop at Bab Laksour gate. It's a ~2-minute flat walk to the door. The staff will come meet you with a cart if you arrange it.
Is it safe at night?
Yes, Quartier Laksour is one of the most upscale and well-lit parts of the Medina, near the royal palace.
Do they serve alcohol?
Yes, they have a bar and serve drinks, unlike many traditional strict Riads.
Is breakfast included?
Yes, and it's excellent—fresh juices, eggs, Moroccan pancakes, served on the terrace.
Is there a gym?
Not really. There is a 'fitness room' mentioned in some listings, but it's minimal. Better to jog in the nearby Cyber Park.
Consejos de Insiders
- ✨
Ask Louis (the manager) for reservations at El Fenn's rooftop bar—he manages it and can likely smooth the way.
- ✨
The rooftop fire pit is the best spot for a pre-dinner drink in winter.
- ✨
Don't skip the in-house dinner; guests rave about the cook's tagines being better than restaurant food.
5 cosas que debes saber antes de ir
💡The 'Skate to Create' charity connection gives the place a cool, youthful community vibe.
💡The riad dog, Bagheera, is a local celebrity and very friendly.
💡It's easy to walk past the front door—it's discreet with no massive signage.
💡The 'Cosy Double' really is cosy—think European city size, not American resort size.
💡You are literally 1 minute from Dar El Bacha, the best coffee house in Marrakech (go early to beat the line).
Guía Local
Mapa
Descubre dónde se encuentra Riad Alena y qué hay cerca.