Dar Kawa

A Colorfully Restored 17th Century Riad

A former spiritual retreat, this 17th-century riad in Marrakesh brings the past and present alive with authentic detail, delicious food, and timeless North African design. In restoring its simple beauty and ancient charms, this small luxury hotel in Marrakech shares in the richly layered culture and flavors of Morocco. 

Located in the heart of the Medina, Dar Kawa is a serene and meditative retreat that has undergone a subtle and chic transformation, delivering the best of comfort and authentic Moroccan style.

First restored in 1999 by owner and designer Valerie, with the help and advice of Belgian architect Quentin Wilbaux, the structure and interiors were carefully considered in order to preserve and reveal the buildings' original character. A true connoisseur of the medina and its Saadian architectural origins, all materials were chosen with simplicity and authenticity in mind with cedar wood, cement tiles, furnishings, and textiles that correspond to ancestral Moroccan culture. 

As with most riads, the spaces are composed of a vertical wrap-around profile that provides a spacious and intimate environment as well as bright open spaces arranged around an interior courtyard and terraces. The inward focus and proportions make the courtyard the calm and cool central lounge area for relaxing and dining.

Respectful of tradition, the owner worked with local artisans to create a space with an authentic soul and a history. With earthy concrete finishes, a cool neutral palette and a simple and understated mix of authentic Moroccan and custom furnishings and decor, there are also paintings, photographs and traces of the many artists who have stayed here. With four en suite bedrooms, the hotel can sleep up to twelve with the option of renting the whole house if you choose. The chef focuses on healthy, locally sourced and seasonal products cooked according to the principles of Moroccan cuisine with breakfast served daily in the courtyard and there is spa with specially created 100% natural ingredients.  

Tastefully preserved and restored, this boutique hotel is a cooly refined and deeply relaxing escape designed for total well-being and inspired by an abiding love for the fascinating city that is Marrakech. 

AROUND

Marrakesh's famed Medina is the vibrant heart of the city with its colorful maze of souks, markets and cafes.  Explore the city with visits to Le Jardin Secret, the 12th-century Moorish Koutoubia Mosque, Dar Si Said, or Jardin Majorelle. The Place des Epices and the Place Jemaa el Fna are within walking distance. Don't miss Bahia Palace and El Badii Palace, with their fascinating histories and intricate decadence at the hands of skilled craftsmen.

The nearby Atlas Mountains and Ourika Valley are ideal for day trips and the three-hour drive to the Atlantic coast is worth the trip for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of El Jadida, a fortified former Portuguese colony that features both western and eastern influences. 

The laid back beach town of Essaouira with sandy-colored ramparts, whitewashed avenues, French-style piazzas and fishing port are just south of the iconic city of Casablanca.  

LOCATION

Marrakesh, Morocco. Nearest Airport: Marrakesh Menara Airport (8km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: November through March with Spring and Autumn being the most popular times to visit.