Talaa 12

Marrakesh

Every year, Marrakesh welcomes international visitors, anxious to discover the wealth of this highly colorful city. Numerous celebrities have contributed to the magnificence of Marrakesh, namely French fashion designer, Yves Saint-Laurent, who literally fell in love with the city and, in the 1980s, purchased the famous Majorelle gardens in order to restore them to their original splendor. Today, it is one of the most popular attractions for tourists who come here to admire the collection of plants from all over the world and to find some peace and quiet in the heart of the bustling city. Another important site in Marrakesh is its medina and its traditional craftsmen. In the historical center of the city, it’s an oriental labyrinth of narrow, winding streets where visitors can discover the cultural diversity of the city, with its herbalists, tanners, other leather workers and potters. You can also take advantage of the cafés’ terraces which line the large Jemaa el Fna square and enjoy a view of the famous 12^th century Koutoubia mosque.

A haven of peace in the heart of the medina

Ideally situated in the very heart of the medina, Marrakesh’s historical quarter, the Talaa 12 riad is an exceptional site, perfect for a peaceful relaxing stay. The owners, Marianne and Philippe, originally from Belgium, and true aficionados of beautiful buildings, welcome you personally. This particularly warm and discreet couple is always available to advise you about the tours you can take and to give you helpful tips on how to bargain with local craftsmen in the medina.

As lovers of large spaces, the riad has only four rooms and four suites, thus assuring guests of calm and privacy. The décor is simple, combining authenticity in its traditional carpets and lanterns with some more contemporary elements. The result is warm and harmonious.

A massage service, featuring traditional Moroccan and Swedish massages is available in your own room. The patio has a lovely fountain surrounded by a garden. The cool, fresh atmosphere of this space creates a welcome feeling of serenity after a long day exploring the streets of the city.

The Talaa 12 becomes a table d’hôte in the evening, and you can choose to have dinner in the dining room with its large fireplace or on the roof of the riad, under one of the tents set up there, in order to enjoy the superb sunset, with the Atlas mountains in the background.

“The design of this riad, located next to the medersa Ben Youssef, is very pure. All of the furniture was designed by Marianne, the owner, who along with Philippe, guarantee guests an impeccable welcome and discreet service. The beiges, reds and oranges of the couches and the curtains give the riad a filtered, zen type atmosphere, reinforced by the play of light from the highly elaborate wall lights and lamps.” – Louise Cuneo, journalist, lepoint.fr