"There’s a mind-boggling choice of riad-hotels in Marrakech’s Medina, but only a small handful manage to strike that perfect balance between warm welcome, peaceful atmosphere and sumptuous Moroccan design. French hotelier Laurent Bernard knows how it's done, hitting the mark perfectly with his latest venture, Dar Assiya. This intimate, 5-room riad is seductively stylish. Architectural features date back to the 15th Century, and ornate patterns meander throughout. Everything is centred around a perfect Moroccan courtyard, with pillared arches, elaborate doorways, decorative lanterns and slender palm trees protruding up the middle. There’s a cooling plunge pool at the heart, elegantly decorated bedrooms to the sides, and a heavenly roof terrace at the top, with shaded seating to shelter from the scorching Moroccan sun. Breakfasts are said to be delicious, and the staff go out of their way to please. Need a late-night snack, pre-dinner drink, or help booking excursions? No problem. The fascinating Medina is right outside, so get out and explore its heady streets, then come back to decompress in Dar Assiya’s soothing, lamp-lit salons. Highs You’re bang in the heart of the Medina here, with all the big sights walkable, yet it’s a haven of calm inside We’ve heard that the food is delicious: daily changing breakfasts and some of the best tagines around The extremely helpful staff, who will gladly assist with organising excursions and booking restaurants The riad feels intimate and personal, with just 5 individually designed rooms, and intricate Moroccan patterns throughout Lows As with many riads, it’s a little tricky to find - ask them to book you a transfer if you’re coming from the airport, or call ahead before you arrive so that someone can guide you there No kids under 10" - Handpicked by our hotel experts