11 of the Best Marrakech Riads with Fireplaces for a Winter Getaway
- Malika
- Jun 17
- 12 min read
Updated: Jul 8
While Marrakech is more often associated with its hot desert climate, it’s also a wonderful winter destination. There’s snow blanketing the Atlas Mountains, everyone’s rugged up in their woollen djellabas and the tourist crowds are slightly thinner than you can expect for much of the year.
One of the things I love about visiting the “Red City” in winter is finding a Marrakech riad with a fireplace to cosy up in at night. Sitting beside an open fire with a book is one of my favourite ways to spend an evening, particularly when surrounded by low-lit Moroccan lanterns and hand-woven rugs.
If you’re the same (or just want to be warmed to your bones when you return from winter sightseeing), then I’m here to help.
In this article, I’ll share 11 of the best Marrakech riads with fireplaces, all of which have glowing reviews. While some have roaring fireplaces in their rooms and suites, others have communal lounges warmed by wood stoves. Either way, they’ll help to make your winter vacation in Marrakech all the more special!
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BEST MARRAKECH RIADS WITH A FIREPLACE
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top recommendations for the best riads in Marrakech with a fireplace:
Best Marrakech riad with a fireplace and cooking school
Best ultra-luxurious hotel in Marrakech with a fireplace
Best budget Marrakech riad with a fireplace
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Best Marrakech riad with a fireplace and cooking school
Best affordable Marrakech riad with a fireplace
Best minimalist Marrakech riad with a fireplace
Best ultra-luxurious hotel in Marrakech with a fireplace
Best budget Marrakech riad with a fireplace
Best Marrakech riad with fireplace suites
Best family-friendly Marrakech riad with a fireplace
Best Marrakech Palmeraie hotel with a fireplace
Best Marrakech riad with a fireplace and jacuzzi
Best Marrakech riad with a fireplace and hammam
Best Marrakech riad with a fireplace for groups
Best Marrakech riad with a fireplace and cooking school
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the medina near Bab Doukkala, this beautiful riad has made a name for its legendary cooking school. Its culinary history dates back to the 1940s when two French women set up a restaurant that went on to become a leading gastronomic destination on the African continent.
Since then, La Maison Arabe has become renowned for its cooking workshops, which are open to guests and non-guests alike. Needless to say, the dining experiences here are also second to none, with multiple venues offering both Moroccan and international cuisine.
Aside from being an outstanding place to stay for foodies visiting Marrakech, this luxury riad is an inviting winter destination thanks to the fireplaces in its rooms and suites. There are 45 in total, all combining Moroccan traditional elements with contemporary elegance, and complete with bathrooms crafted from marble and granite.
Additionally, La Maison Arabe boasts a decadent onsite spa with two hammams if you want to indulge in this traditional bathing ritual.
Discover more Marrakech riads with hammams here.
“Elegant and charming—an ideal place to relax and soak in the beauty of Marrakech.” - Khatib (read more reviews here)
Best Marrakech riads with fireplaces
Best affordable Marrakech riad with a fireplace
Located just a stone’s throw from Dar El Bacha, Dar Charkia is a privately owned boutique hotel in the Marrakech medina. It features just six elegantly appointed suites, each of which combines Asian and African design elements, as well as a heated pool in its central patio.
What I really love about this affordable Marrakech riad are the fireplaces in many of the rooms, making it the perfect place to retreat to on a chilly winter’s night. Nothing is too much trouble for the welcoming staff and both the rooms and communal spaces are always spotlessly clean.
When staying at Dar Charkia, there are plenty of additional places you can unwind throughout the property, including beneath the shade of an orange tree in the central patio. A highlight is watching the sunset from one of the expansive roof terraces overlooking the seven mosques of Marrakech.
“The location of the riad is perfect — tucked away in a calm, quiet street but just a short walk from all the main attractions in the medina.” - Glorija (read more reviews here)
Best riads in Marrakech with fireplaces
Best minimalist Marrakech riad with a fireplace
Within easy reach of the parking area at Bab Doukkala, Riad Al Massarah boasts a quiet setting in the west of the Marrakech medina. It features a minimalist design aesthetic that I really love but it still feels quite luxurious in an understated way. The architecture harmoniously marries traditional Moroccan elements with modern sophistication, creating an atmosphere that immediately invites relaxation.
Each of the rooms at this Marrakech riad features carefully selected modern furnishings and unique artworks, with some boasting inset wooden stoves in their fireplaces. There’s something unarguably cosy about returning from an afternoon of exploration to kick back with a good book beside a roaring fireplace.
The dedicated staff at Riad Al Massarah consistently go the extra mile to ensure personalised attention and the glowing reviews say everything you need to know. The cherry on the top is the swimming pool set within the tranquil courtyard - even if it might be too cold to swim!
“Gorgeous riad with attentive staff.” - Maria (read more reviews here)
Best Marrakech riads with fireplaces
Best ultra-luxurious hotel in Marrakech with a fireplace
If money isn’t an object, then there really is nowhere better to stay in Marrakech than the Royal Mansour. Designed by King Mohammed VI and crafted by some of the nation's finest artisans, it features 53 private riads with your choice of between one and four bedrooms.
Each of the riads is uniquely designed with private plunge pools and shaded patios offering views toward the Atlas Mountains. Aside from indoor fireplaces where you can cosy up on winter nights, there are outdoor fireplaces on the rooftops - there’s no better spot for sundowners!
Aside from its Michelin-star restaurant (there are four restaurants in total), there’s the Fireplace Lounge overlooking one of the property’s gorgeous gardens. Add in one of Marrakech’s most beautiful pools and an expansive wellness centre, and it really doesn’t get any better than this.
"The best hotel in the world!” - Lukasz (read more reviews here)
Best Marrakech hotels with fireplaces
Best budget Marrakech riad with a fireplace
Beautifully decorated in a traditional Moroccan style, this affordable Marrakech riad also gets points in my book for the fireplaces that feature in some of its rooms. It’s tucked away in a quiet street just off Rue Fatima Zahra, which offers easy access to Koutoubia Mosque and Djemaa el-Fnaa.
In total, there are six suites at Riad Mur Akush, some with four-poster beds and all with private bathrooms boasting tadelakt walls and zellige tiles. They are uniquely decorated with antiques sourced from local markets and are designed as places to disconnect (no TVs here!). Egyptian cotton towels and sheets feature in the rooms and all of the curtains are hand-woven using Moroccan fibres.
Guests rave about the breakfast at this Marrakech riad with a fireplace, particularly when it comes to the spiced coffee. Considering the price tag, I think this is definitely one of the best value riads in the city for a winter escape.
“Beautiful cozy riad in my favourite part of the Medina.” - Meadow (read more reviews here)
Best Marrakech riads with fireplaces
Best Marrakech riad with fireplace suites
Established in 2004, Riad Azzar knows a thing or two about welcoming guests to Marrakech and it continues to receive glowing reviews to this day. It is beautifully decorated with objects from Ethiopia, Zambia and Iran that were collected by the owners during their global travels. That being said, the setting is undeniably Morocco, with its plant-filled central patio and wooden mashrabiya screens.
Riad Azzar is located just off Derb Dabachi, one of the main thoroughfares leading to Djemaa el-Fnaa. It features just three rooms and three suites, some of which come with private fireplaces, including Marmoucha, Taznarth, Zayan and Zemmour. If you’re travelling with kids, you can opt for the twin-bedded Kilim room, in addition to a fireplace suite.
In terms of communal spaces, there are several alcoves where you can relax and a salon filled with books, not to mention a courtyard complete with a plunge pool. Delicious breakfasts are served on the rooftop terrace while the in-house chef Fatima creates amazing dinners using produce sourced from the riad’s nearby farm.
“A true oasis of calm in the middle of the medina madness!” - Leila (read more reviews here)
Best riads in Marrakech with fireplaces
Best family-friendly Marrakech riad with a fireplace
Riad Soundouss is a hidden treasure located adjacent to a garden in the middle of the Marrakech medina. It’s just 10 minutes walk from Djemaa El-Fnaa and within easy reach of Dar El Bacha.
As you enter this budget-friendly Marrakech riad, you’re instantly welcomed into a peaceful oasis, with the calm interior offering a soothing escape from the lively atmosphere outside.
There are a total of five guest rooms at Riad Soundouss - one on the ground floor and four on the second floor - each equipped with an ensuite bathroom and climate control. If you’re looking for a Marrakech riad with a fireplace, consider booking the Irena room or the family-friendly Fouzia suite, which features two rooms connected by a balcony.
On the rooftop terrace, where complimentary breakfast is served, there are magnificent views across the medina and the distant Atlas Mountains. Three-course Moroccan dinners are also available on request for those nights when you don’t feel like venturing out to eat.
"This riad is located perfectly on the edge of the souks, making access to and away very easy…A real treasure.” - George (read more reviews here)
Best Marrakech riads with fireplaces
Best Marrakech Palmeraie hotel with a fireplace
Nestled in the palmeraie, just a 10-minute drive from the medina, this boutique Marrakech hotel exudes the grandeur of a 14th-century Moorish palace. A series of Romanesque arches lead to an inviting pool fringed by palm trees while the overall design of the property has a touch of Ottoman elegance.
At Ksar Char Bagh, there are 25 villas and suites, each at least 60 square metres in size. No matter which one you choose, you can expect marble ensuite bathrooms with luxurious tubs, as well as private gardens (some with plunge pools). Fireplaces also come as standard, making this one of the best places to stay in Marrakech in the wintertime.
What truly captivates me about this boutique Marrakech hotel (beyond its tranquil atmosphere) is its outstanding wellness facilities, which include a stunning hammam adorned with red marble. The spa also offers a wide range of personalised massages and beauty treatments, utilising carefully curated blends of essential oils.
“An exceptional place to visit. Luxurious with a personalised touch.” - Elaine (read more reviews here)
Best Marrakech hotels with fireplaces
Best Marrakech riad with a fireplace and jacuzzi
Featuring just six individually styled rooms, this Marrakech riad exhibits an Arab-Andalusian aesthetic with its whitewashed design and wooden accents. It’s located just a stone’s throw from Ben Youssef Madrasa and the House of Photography, as well as the elegant Ben Salah Mosque.
Riad Safa has an age restriction of 10 years plus, so it’s not quite adults-only...but close! There are also no televisions or phones in the rooms (although you can stay connected via Wi-Fi), reflecting the property’s overall purpose of being a peaceful retreat amidst the organised chaos of the “Red City”.
While Riad Safa doesn’t boast fireplaces in its rooms, there is one in the communal lounge that’s undeniably appealing. Additionally, there are two patios where you can relax in between sightseeing excursions - one with a jacuzzi and the other with an orange tree - plus lots of nooks where you can find a quiet moment.
Other highlights of staying at this Marrakech riad with a fireplace are indulging in a hammam and dining under the glass pyramid while watching the stars above.
“Absolute heaven.” - Toni (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Marrakech with fireplaces
Best Marrakech riad with a fireplace and hammam
Occupying a former spice merchant's residence, this exquisite Marrakech riad boasts 12 beautifully appointed rooms, each named after locations along the historic Spice Route. Moroccan, Indian and Spanish design elements have been harmoniously combined and the rooms all feature king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms, either with a stone bathtub or a jacuzzi.
What I particularly love about this Marrakech riad for a winter stay is its inviting lounge, complete with a cosy fireplace where you can retreat in the evenings. Additionally, there’s a sparkling swimming pool and a traditional hammam - another welcome facility if you’re visiting the “Red City” in the winter months.
Every afternoon, the riad treats its guests to complimentary pastries and refreshing Moroccan mint tea - it’s worth taking a break from sightseeing just to enjoy this moment. The breakfast is also worth a special mention, with multiple courses served on the rooftop accompanied by incredible medina views.
“The best accommodation I've ever booked….It scores 100% at all levels.” - Fatima (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Marrakech with fireplaces
Best Marrakech riad with a fireplace for groups
Restored by Quentin Wilbaux, this 17th-century home of an astronomer and judge has been lovingly transformed into a stylish Marrakech riad. It’s located smack-bang in the middle of the medina, putting you within easy walking distance of all the sights and the Ben Salah Mosque just around the corner.
In total, there are just six rooms, each of which has been authentically restored with 17th-century elements. They can be booked individually or by groups wanting exclusive use of the property. Additionally, Dar El Qadi is one of the few hotels in the Marrakech medina with its own tower, which rises proudly above the multi-tiered rooftop terrace.
On the ground floor, you’ll find an inviting lounge, complete with a fireplace where you can while away your evenings. In fact, nobody would blame you if you spent an entire winter’s afternoon here with a good book! I also love that there’s a hammam if you want to experience this traditional Moroccan bathing ritual.
“From the premises itself to amazing details of comfort like handmade soap, and impeccably clean and comfy rooms, everything was simply amazing.” - Goncalo (read more reviews here)
Tips for finding a Marrakech riad with a fireplace
When searching for Marrakech riads with fireplaces, there are several key factors to consider to find the perfect property for you. First, do you want a fireplace in your room or are you content with a Marrakech riad with a communal fireplace?
Next, think about any additional amenities you desire, such as an onsite spa or a hammam (I particularly love being in the warmth of a hammam in the wintertime). You can easily find suitable properties by clicking the filtering options alongside search results at booking.com. Most are listed under “Facilities” (to the left of search results) and I usually write “fireplace” in the Smart Filters box as this isn’t a tickable option
As most Marrakech riads are located within the medina, it's important to consider access since the medina is car-free - you won't be able to drive directly to the entrance to drop off your luggage. Check how close the riad is to one of Marrakech’s “babs” as there are usually parking options and taxi drop-off points just outside these.
If you're driving yourself, there are several secure parking lots close to the medina's entrances, which provide better safety than leaving your rental car on the street.
After you make your reservation, your accommodation in Marrakech will usually reach out to you with details about the nearest and safest parking options, along with directions to get to the property on foot (you can also find this information independently using Google Maps). Additionally, they can arrange for someone to meet you at the parking area, often with a trolley to help transport your luggage.
Nearly all hotels and riads in Marrakech offer an airport pickup service, and I highly recommend taking advantage of this for a hassle-free experience. Alternatively, you can book a secure, fixed-price airport transfer in Marrakech with Welcome Pickups.
A driver will be waiting for you at the airport holding a sign with your name and they will coordinate with someone from your riad to meet you in the parking area. This makes getting to your hotel much easier than navigating the maze of streets on your own!
When planning a trip to Marrakech, it's wise to think about the noise from nearby bars and clubs, along with the sounds coming from the numerous mosques in the medina. If you're a light sleeper and worry about being disturbed by the Fajr adhan (the dawn call to prayer), I suggest packing some earplugs, just to be on the safe side.
Lastly, remember that all riads in Marrakech are required to collect a government-mandated tourist tax. This tax must be paid directly to the hotel and is usually not included in your booking rate. It is generally settled either at check-in or when you check out from your Marrakech riad with a fireplace.
