The hype
Travelers universally praise the staff (especially Abdou) for being genuinely helpful without the usual Medina hustle.
Riad Alena
$150-230/ nacht
Boek dit als You want the cool-kid design DNA of El Fenn without the $600 price tag or the scene-y crowds.
Waarom mensen ervan houden
- 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
Snel Overzicht: 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.
Beoordeeld door @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.
Gast die hier verbleef zei
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
Schoonmaak & Onderhoud
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™
8STIL
0-4LUID
4-7.5GEMATIGD
7.5-10STIL
- Echoes from the internal courtyard (breakfast setup, other guests)
- Call to prayer (inevitable in the Medina, but distant)
Voordat je boekt
Goed om te weten
- 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!
Wat je mee moet nemen
- 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)
Kamer Genie
Beste keuzes
- The 'White Room' (Large Double) for its airy feel and chic minimalist decor
- Any upper-floor room for slightly more privacy from the courtyard
Kamers om te vermijden
- The 'Cosy Double' if you are bringing two large suitcases—it is intimate.
Kamer Aanvraag Genie – kopiëren en plakken
“I'd love to request one of the upper-floor rooms, ideally the White Room if available, for a bit more light and privacy.”
Veelgestelde vragen & Verborgen tips
Alles wat je eigenlijk wilt weten voordat je boekt.
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.
Tips van 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 dingen die je moet weten voordat je gaat
💡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).
Lokaal Playbook
Kaart
Bekijk waar Riad Alena zich bevindt en wat er in de buurt is.