Palais Dar Donab

Stayed at this exceptional Riad for twelve days in May. I only have one word for the experience- exceptiona, it could not be faulted. The Riad is one of the best palaces in Marrakech, with wonderful moorish architecture, and is so very well maintained. Our suite was luxurious, beautifully and luxuriously designed, was on two floors, with a large bathroom, very comfy bed and private patio to relax in the sun. Staff at the hotel were all exceptional, very helpful, eager to please, and so very friendly. A very big thank you to all, and for everything you did for my wife and I. The riad has an excellent restaurant, with a wide menu, in the most very pleasant surroundings in the courtyard with a small pool. Food was outstanding and ranks as one of the best in Marrakech. I repeat, this is an exceptional Riad, well positioned on the edge of the souks, and the staff were just amazing. I would recommend this Riad to all. We will return very soon and a very big thank you for our stay

Right on the edge of the suk this Riad is well positioned. Ornately decorated throughout in traditional Moroccan style, with large comfortable rooms. Staff were always friendly and helpful and the breakfast, continental in style was delicious. However, we encountered one or two disappointments, perhaps a legacy of going out of season. The downstairs terrace area was stunning with a small pool in the centre. While the weather was hot enough to have enjoyed this facility there were no sun beds or comfortable seats. Also, the upstairs terrace area was unusable. There were one or 2 tables scattered about, most without seats and the seats that were present had no cushions. There was no shade/umbrellas and his whole area was dusty and rundown. Unfortunately the hotel chose our week to begin renovations. This work was not discreet. One whole side of the downstairs terrace was tackled at a time, dust etc minimised by an enormous black tarpaulin draped from the first floor downwards. This was unsightly, made the terrace dark and did nothing to conceal the sanding hammering and banging that was going on behind it. This went on for 5 of our 7 days stay and in-fact had progressed to include the reception area as we we leaving. In order to maintain a 5 star hotel, this type of work is of course essential. However, having paid a five star price to stay I think closing the hotel for a couple of weeks to complete this volume of work would have been fairer on guests. While the rooms are beautiful and comfortable in every way with air conditioning, minibar and reliable Wifi etc, the constant noise from the street overnight meant that undisturbed sleep was impossible.

Palais Donab is wonderful- I would recommend it to anyone looking for a beautiful Riad close to Jemaa el Fna and the souks. We split our trip between multiple Riads and this was by far our favorite. The whole Riad is beautifully decorated - lots of tile work and lush greenery. The pool is a wonderful place to cool off and take a break from exploring. Staff bring out towels and set up lounge chairs upon request. The food was great- breakfast was very generous, lunch was great, especially the Moroccan salad, and dinner- especially the lamb tagine and Moroccan red wine. Everything is served with delicious fluffy bread and olives. We stayed in the Koutoubia Suit, which was spacious and clean with a nice big shower and a walk-in closet. The bed and sitting area were both very comfortable. One day housekeeping brought us a platter of fresh fruit and another day a beautiful vase of roses. Staff are constantly cleaning everywhere so nothing is dirty or dingy and it smells like orange blossoms. When we checked out we needed to leave early for a desert tour and staff accommodated us for breakfast earlier than it’s usually served. Then when our tour guide was late they went above and beyond to help us contact them and find out what was going on. We were so sad to leave! Bonus- the Riad is very close to a taxi drop-off/pick-up spot. Dar el Bacha museum is steps away, and in the opposite direction Jardin Secret is just a 5 min walk and surrounded by excellent shops. Hammam de la Rose is right across the street for a luxurious scrub and/or massage. So convenient! Bottom line- the service here was WAY better than we got at more expensive Riads. Still had the beauty of a palace with a pleasant laid back feeling and a delightfully relaxing respite from the chaos of the Medina. 10/10 would stay here again and hope we get to return someday!