DAR RHIZLANE

Description:

• Owner Ahmed Sadke and renowned local architect Charles Boccara have transformed this former villa into one of the most charming accommodations in the city. Surrounded by multistory hotel complexes in well-to-do Hivernage, Dar Rhizlane (Ahmed's daughter's name) is as good as anywhere in the medina or the palmeraie, plus it's conveniently located.

  A lush garden of bamboo, bougainvillea, citrus trees, palms, roses, and succulents hosts the afternoon's complimentary high tea and surrounds two separate houses, which are bisected by a central salon furnished with leather armchairs and heavy Berber carpets. Menzeh, the main building, houses 10 different-size rooms and suites that enjoy either private garden terraces or balconies, along with a ground-floor reception room complete with antiques and a wrought-iron chandelier. At the rear of the property is Garden Villa Rayyane, where the recently renovated restaurant stands along with two more suites and a room. Aside the pavilion is an open-air bar, and between the two buildings is a large swimming pool, heated in winter and surrounded by sun lounges.

  All rooms and suites are elegantly furnished with Moroccan antiques and furniture, lots of cushions and carpets, as well as traditional beehive-shape fireplaces. The bathrooms are nice and big with gilded-copper washbasins. Although it's more of a romantic retreat, families are most welcome. Both the medina and Guéliz are within walking distance (though you wouldn't want to in the heat of the day), and both calèches and petits taxis are just outside the front gate.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010