Riad Fès is a Relais & Châteaux member and the most refined place to sleep inside the medina. Built around four patios in a Hispano-Moorish style, with zellige tilework, stucco arcades and marble basins, it feels like a private palace rather than a hotel. The pool sits in one of the patios, the spa offers hammam treatments and massages in an intimate setting, and the rooftop terrace looks across the medina and toward the Atlas for sunrise views. Dining is a highlight, with the Gayza restaurant serving sophisticated cuisine and a lounge bar for evenings. It is the right choice for a milestone trip or a honeymoon.
Location and getting around: the riad stands in the Batha quarter on the edge of Fes el-Bali, about a two-minute walk from Sidi El-Khayat square, with the Batha Museum and the lanes toward Bou Inania a short stroll away. Cars cannot reach the door, so the hotel arranges to meet you at the nearest drop-off and carry your luggage in. Fès Saïss airport is about 10 km away and the train station about 4 km. From the front door you can walk to most medina sights, though a guide is wise for the first morning.
Rooms and atmosphere: rooms and suites are decorated with antique furniture, carved cedar, tiled floors and high ceilings, and most open onto a patio or garden. Bathrooms are generous, and beds are comfortable and well dressed. Because the building is a historic house, layouts and room sizes vary, so ask for a quiet room facing a patio if you are a light sleeper. The sense of calm inside the walls, away from the noise of the lanes, is one of the great pleasures of the stay.
Who it suits and good to know: it is ideal for couples and anyone who wants a high level of service and design, and it works for special occasions. Breakfast is served in the dining spaces or on the terrace, and a table at Gayza makes an easy first-night dinner. The spa is small, so book treatments in advance. Rates are at the top of the Fes range, with the best value outside the busy spring and autumn peaks. Children are welcome, though the setting suits older children best. Check the current policy on smoking and on pets before you book.
Why stay here
- ✓Four Hispano-Moorish patios
- ✓Swimming pool in a patio
- ✓Spa with hammams and massages
- ✓Gayza restaurant
- ✓Lounge bar
- ✓Rooftop with medina and Atlas views
- ✓Relais & Châteaux member
- ✓Airport and station transfers on request
Good questions
Where is Riad Fès located?+
It is in the Batha quarter on the edge of the medina, about two minutes from Sidi El-Khayat square. The airport is about 10 km away and the train station about 4 km.
Does it have a pool and spa?+
Yes, there is a swimming pool in one of the patios and a spa offering hammams and massages. Book treatments ahead because the spa is small.
Is it good for a special occasion?+
Yes, it is a Relais & Châteaux member with a restaurant, rooftop and palatial courtyards. It suits honeymoons and milestone trips.
