9 Amazing Hotels in Fes with a Pool for a Summer Escape
- Malika
- Jan 14
- 10 min read
Updated: May 27
Fes gets hot in the summertime and I mean HOT, as in temperatures in excess of 40 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit)! On days like these, staying at a Fes hotel or riad with a swimming pool can make all the difference, giving you somewhere to cool off and relax during the heat of the day.
While I love visiting Fes, I find it hard to do a full day of exploration in the summertime as the heat completely wears me down. So after heading out early to sightsee, I usually retreat to my accommodation around midday to swim or lounge on a sun bed with a good book. Then once the sun sets and the temperatures begin to drop, I head out again to experience Fes after dark.
If you're visiting Fes in June, July or August and looking for accommodation, then this article is for you! I’ll share with you 9 of the best hotels in Fes with a pool to help you plan a summer escape to this ancient city. While some properties feature indoor pools, others are tucked away in leafy patios or positioned on rooftop terraces with incredible views across the city.
For more information about visiting Fes, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Fes.
An arched corridor leads toward the swimming pool at Hôtel Sahrai in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
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BEST HOTELS AND RIADS IN FES WITH A POOL
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top recommendations for the best hotels in Fes with a pool:
Best luxury boutique hotel in Fes with a pool
Best luxury riad in Fes with a pool
Best Moroccan-owned riad in Fes with a pool
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best luxury boutique hotel in Fes with a pool
Best affordable Fes riad with a courtyard pool
Best Fes riad with a rooftop pool
Best Fes riad with a terrace pool
Best riad in Fes with a pool for families
Best luxury riad in Fes with a pool
Best Moroccan-owned riad in Fes with a pool
Best affordable luxury hotel in Fes with a pool
Best Fes riad with a pool and parking
Best luxury boutique hotel in Fes with a pool
Perched on a hill overlooking Fes (the views from the swimming pool are exceptional!), this stunning hotel was envisioned by the French designer Christophe Pillet. It beautifully combines traditional Moroccan architecture with a modern twist - I particularly love the glass-walled bathrooms in the rooms and suites. The property is adorned with zellige tiles, copper lanterns and Fassi ceramics, complemented by custom furnishings throughout.
Hôtel Sahrai is more than just accommodation; it features several restaurants that serve Moroccan, French and Lebanese dishes, along with a rooftop lounge bar where you can enjoy the sparkling lights of Fes below.
When you're not pampering yourself at the onsite spa, which uses products from Cinq Mondes and marocMaroc, you can also take a class in Arabic calligraphy - one of the cultural offerings at this contemporary Fes hotel.
"Fantastic boutique hotel, will definitely stay again.” - Christy (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Fes with pool
Views across Fes from the swimming pool at Hôtel Sahrai (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best affordable Fes riad with a courtyard pool
Dating back to the 1940s, this beautifully restored riad captivates from the moment you step into the tranquil courtyard, filled with the scent of orange, mandarin and lemon trees. It beautifully blends traditional Arabo-Andalusian architecture and elegant modern comforts, with six individually decorated rooms and suites to choose from.
The crowning jewel of Riad Norma is undoubtedly its serene outdoor spaces, one of which features a sparkling swimming pool - it's an idyllic spot to refresh during the heat of the day.
Breakfast is included in the rates and while no other meals are served onsite, the staff will happily help you to order food from nearby restaurants, which you can enjoy in the communal lounge.
"Absolutely stunning, the pictures do not describe the grandness of the rooms. The staff were amazing, helpful and kind.” - Kristyn (read more reviews here)
Best riads in Fes with pool
The garden pool at Riad Norma in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best Fes riad with a rooftop pool
Originally built in 1910, Riad Semlalia was carefully renovated in 2023 to provide guests with an authentic stay in one of Morocco's most fascinating cities. It features 11 inviting rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with zellige tiles, colourful stained glass windows and beautifully painted wooden ceilings that showcase the best of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.
Not only is there a gorgeous central patio (complete with towering palms) but a breezy rooftop terrace with a swimming pool. Surrounding this oasis are plenty of loungers where you can relax in between sightseeing excursions.
The friendly and attentive staff, led by the exceptional property manager Abdoul, go above and beyond to ensure each guest feels welcome and well cared for throughout their stay.
"Beautiful property in Fez away from all the hustle and bustle of the city. Great hospitality provided by the hosts.” - Danielle (read more reviews here)
Best riads in Fes with pool
Birds fly above the rooftop pool at Riad Semlalia in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best Fes riad with a terrace pool
While the pool at Riad Fes Ziyat & Spa might not be big, it definitely does the job on a hot summer’s day. It also boasts a charming setting on an open-air terrace that I think adds to its appeal.
This gorgeous Fes riad occupies an 18th-century building once owned by a prominent Fassi family. It is notable for its generous suites, each adorned with stunning tile work and beautifully crafted lanterns.
In terms of dining, you can indulge in outstanding Moroccan dishes at the on-site restaurant, along with an international menu for those seeking more familiar flavours. When you’re not out sightseeing, I recommend unwinding with a traditional hammam treatment or a massage at the onsite spa.
It’s also worth mentioning that Riad Fes Ziyat is Moroccan-owned (something I love to promote) and conveniently located near Bab Boujloud gate.
“Truly one of the most beautiful hotels I have ever visited.” - Enrico (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Fes with pool
The indoor pool at Riad Rcif Alif Suite & Spa (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best riad in Fes with a pool for families
Featuring exquisite Moroccan artistry, all of the spaces at Riad Rcif Alif Suite & Spa are a visual delight, filled with bold colours and engaging designs. The uniquely styled rooms (which include family suites) boast views of the central patio and some come complete with luxurious bathtubs for soaking in at the end of the day.
When it comes to spa facilities, Riad Rcif Alif Suite includes an authentic hammam and an indoor pool. Here, you can swim amidst the most stunning architectural features, even if the weather's not favourable outside.
Chef Fatima delights with her incredible Fassi dishes - the pastilla pastries are a must-try! Additionally, the presence of an elevator makes this one of the best Fes riads for guests with limited mobility.
“Absolutely stunning interior - felt like we were living in a royal palace and at a very reasonable price.” - Shirin (read more reviews here)
Best Fes riads with a pool
The interior patio and pool at Riad Fes - a Relais & Châteaux property in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best luxury riad in Fes with a pool
This luxurious Relais & Châteaux property seamlessly combines opulence with traditional charm - everything you’d expect of this 5-star brand. As you step into the beautifully decorated interior patio, you’re greeted by an inviting plunge pool framed by burbling fountains and comfortable seating areas for soaking in the serenity.
All of the spacious suites at Riad Fes are designed for comfort, featuring grand king beds and exquisite marble bathrooms (some with clawfoot tubs for a touch of indulgence).
When you’re not out exploring the medina, you can treat yourself to delicious Moroccan dishes at L’Ambre restaurant or unwind at the Cinq Mondes Spa. For a perfect end to a day exploring Fes, the rooftop bar provides a delightful setting for sunset drinks and aperitifs.
"This place is absolutely amazing! A wonderful little oasis tucked in the medina of Fes.” - Smith (read more reviews here)
Best Fes hotels with a pool
Sun loungers beside the swimming pool at Riad Dar Bensouda in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best Moroccan-owned riad in Fes with a pool
There’s something awe-inspiring about the height and scale of Riad Dar Bensouda’s interior courtyard, which impresses the moment you step inside. The property’s individually decorated rooms and suites are a perfect blend of traditional Moroccan design and modern amenities, with elegant furnishings and stunning views of the city.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast served on the rooftop terrace, where you can soak up the panoramic views of the medina. During the heat of the day, you can retreat to the courtyard swimming pool, which is fringed by lush palms and loungers.
The restaurant at Riad Dar Bensouda serves a range of traditional Moroccan dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients while the onsite spa offers massages and body treatments.
"Moroccan-owned, historical and professionally restored riad with super nice rooms.” - Yielmaz (read more reviews here)
Best Fes riads with a pool
Steps lead up beside the swimming pool at Riad Marjana Suites & Spa in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best affordable luxury hotel in Fes with a pool
This elegant Fes riad is housed in a stunning Arab-Moorish mansion located in the historic Ziat district. It radiates a sense of timeless beauty, with gorgeous architectural elements that will whisk you away to another era. Just a short stroll from El Glaoui Palace, Riad Marjana provides convenient access to the taxi stand at Bab Ziat.
Guests consistently praise Riad Marjana for its outstanding service, lavish decor and tranquil ambiance, making it one of the best places to stay in Fes. The courtyard swimming pool is a big “plus” in the summer months, with its inviting waters illuminated by a glass atrium roof.
Oh, and did I mention there’s a spa offering traditional hammam treatments? All of this with a relatively affordable price tag for a Fes hotel with a pool.
“Our experience at this riad was extraordinary…This place has won our hearts, and we can't wait to return.” - Charles (read more reviews here)
Best Fes hotels with a pool
The interior courtyard of Riad Andalib in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best Fes riad with a pool and parking
Located near one of the gateways to the ancient medina, this highly rated Fes riad receives incredible reviews for the hospitality of its owner, Reibal. On arrival, he takes the time to guide guests through the property and explain everything they need to know about Fes, including not-to-miss highlights that aren’t necessarily in the guidebooks.
As Riad Andalib is right on the edge of the medina, it’s also easy to be dropped right outside the entrance with your luggage.
Aside from the courtyard swimming pool, there are seven suites divided between two pavilions. Each boasts a private bathroom (complete with a bathtub) and modern amenities such as air conditioning, LCD televisions and secure safes. Every corner of Riad Andalib has been thoughtfully designed, with an aesthetic that isn’t quite as “busy” as some other Fes hotels.
When it comes to dining, you can feast on Moroccan dishes at El Andalib or enjoy stunning medina views at El Panorama Restaurant.
"Reibal is the perfect host and Riad Andalib is worth the 10 star rating it has.” - Sidd (read more reviews here)
Tips for finding a hotel with a pool in Fes
When searching for a hotel in Fes with a pool, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure you end up staying somewhere you truly love.
If you're thinking about staying within the medina, be aware that it's a pedestrian-only zone, so you won't be able to drive up to the door and drop off your luggage. However, there are several secure parking areas (with attendants on duty) close to the medina gates ("babs"), which are a safer alternative to leaving your Fes rental car on the street.
After you make your reservation, your Fes hotel or riad will usually contact you to provide information about the safest and most convenient parking options and directions to reach the property by taxi. They might even send someone to meet you at the closest parking/taxi drop-off area to help you find your way.
If you’re using a hotel aggregator like booking.com, you can refine your search to display only Fes hotels with a pool. After you’ve narrowed down your choices, think about other amenities you desire, such as wellness centres and spas, onsite restaurants and gyms. Determine which of these are important for you and concentrate on Fes hotels that provide them.
Before booking any Fes hotel with a pool, I strongly suggest checking reviews from past guests to get a sense of the quality of the property, ensuring it aligns with your expectations. By reading several reviews, you’ll find plenty of information that might not be available on the hotel’s website or in its listing description.
Lastly, keep in mind that every hotel in Fes charges a government-mandated tourist tax that must be paid at the property. This fee is in addition to the nightly room rate and is typically settled during check-in or check-out. This small extra charge applies to each guest per night, except for children under 12 years old.
