DAR LES CIGOGNES BY SANSSOUCI COLLECTION

Came across this lovely nook on lastminute.com and decided to visit Marrakech while in Europe this summer. It did not disappoint! Very convenient location right next to the souks. The most friendly and welcoming staff. Beautiful courtyard, rooftop and Sahara-themed room (with aircon!). Bathroom was very clean. After a hot and scorching day in the sun, stepping inside everyday revealed a calm and different atmosphere I longed for during the day and the hamman and massage were very things I needed. Had the same lamb tagine for dinner 4 nights in a row. Would come again. Highly recommended.

I arrived at Dar Les Cigognes and was intrigued to find out what was hidden inside. As I stepped through the door I had my first encounter with Hayat, her elegance and calming presence assured me that I picked the right place to stay. I entered the courtyard and was bedazzled by its intricate designs, rich colours and soothing nature. My stay at Dar Les Cigognes would not have been the same if Hayat was not present. Her hospitality exuded excellence and she was always very present when interacting with her guests. Hayat took me to my room which was called Safi, she explained the history behind the name and left me to settle in. I spent time soaking up the amazing architecture and elaborate designs in my room. Dar Les Cigognes allows you to experience traditional Morocco within a luxury setting, the location was central yet hidden. Dar Les Cigognes is an amazing riad, managed excellently by Hayat and staff. Thank you for such a wonderful experience.

Stepping into Dar Les Cigognes is like stepping into a secret jewel box. A perfect location - walking distance to everything, yet on a quiet street, next door to the Royal Palace. Hayat was the most warm, kind, and effective hosts I've ever encountered. The service was fantastic, the food was excellent, the room was spectacular, and the Hammam and massage were a special treat. I can't imagine staying anywhere else in Marrakech, and can't wait to return.

My husband and I stayed at the Dar Les Cigognes for 3 nights over the Easter Holiday. Before finally booking this room I had researched so many different riads in Marrakech, and I was so happy we chose Dar Les Cigognes. From the moment we got there we had a warm welcome from Hayat, and she instantly made us feel like family. Our room was gorgeous and had so many wonderful details. We even had a fireplace! But when we were visiting it was 90 degrees F so we didn't need the fireplace. We fell in love with the rooftop terrace, so many gorgeous flowers! It is perfect to have breakfast or dinner, or even bring a book and have some mint tea! We also did the half day cooking class which is provided by Dar Les Cigognes. My husband and I have also done cooking classes in Paris & Cambodia, and this was by far better. It was just the two of us so it felt very personal, and we started the class taking a tour through the local market which really helped to make us feel comfortable understanding the culture of Marrakech at the beginning of our stay. And they were right - the best couscous we had all weekend was the one that WE prepared! Highly recommend! I have also written about our stay on my blog.

We studied many options before choosing "Les Cycognes". Despite high expectations, we have not been disappointed. This is a beautiful classy boutique hotel which, while keeping its historic flavor, was enhanced by the good hands of a well known modern designer. Fully suitable for a romantic or quiet escape. Not suitable however for kids as by definition, a Riad is comprised of inside courtyards on which give the room (so it could be noisy if guests are not respectful, although all were at time of our visit). The hotel, which is comprised of two houses for a total of only 11 rooms, comes with a lot of common spaces/salons/fireplaces which really make you feel like being in your own house. Evening turn down service and free tea and cake are offered wherever you want each afternoon. We had the green room with a fireplace and magnificent carved high ceiling. On request they would come and start up the fireplace in the evening. Location is perfect (at the Medina gate) and accessible by car but the old building nature could come with some (minor) water flushing issues at time or hot water limitations. Food is great but on the pricey side (lots of cheaper local options around but with noisy atmosphere, a good or bad thing according to your mode) but the Riad dining is worth at least one night for the magic decor. Wine is cheap and quite acceptable.We opted for the daily a la carte breakfast rather than the all included and it was perfect for us and cheaper. Overall, the minor downsides are largely compensated by the wonderful decor which really set the tone for a romantic retreat (courtyard with fountains, lovely terrace for breakfast, drinks and sun bathing - although no pool), AND the over-the-top and very genuine service by all the staff, and mainly Hayat the manager and Hajiba, who are always one step ahead of you to anticipate your needs. Highly recommended. We cannot wait to be back. ps: all key staff are fairly fluent in English, which is not obvious in an Arabic/French speaking country and a small hotel.