Riad AnaYela
AnaYela was included in Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List as one of the best new places to stay, and that was one of the reasons for selecting it as one of my hotels in Marrakesh.
The Hot List inclusion prompted me to visit their website and learn about its history. AnaYela is a very small Riad with only five rooms, offering an experience quite different from what I’ve encountered in other parts of the world. Unlike larger, more commercial hotels, AnaYela feels intimate and personal, with details carefully curated to create a unique atmosphere. The décor combines traditional Moroccan artistry with modern comforts, giving the Riad a charming, authentic, yet sophisticated feel.
One of the first things I noticed was that it’s impossible to drive directly to the hotel. Guests must walk through the bustling local markets, and there are no signs pointing to AnaYela. This makes it essential to coordinate your arrival in advance so that someone can meet you at the main road. I did this, and the manager, Daniel, personally met me and guided me to the Riad. He’s German, extremely helpful, and genuinely friendly, making the arrival seamless and welcoming.
I stayed in a standard room, which featured a separate sitting area and a beautifully designed Moroccan interior. The large bathtub and locally sourced toiletries added a luxurious touch, and every detail reflected care and thoughtfulness. The service was excellent, with staff displaying the warm hospitality typical of the best small hotels.
The rooftop terrace is another highlight, offering views over Marrakech. Enjoying breakfast up there felt like a small, serene escape from the city’s vibrant energy. The atmosphere of AnaYela is both relaxing and memorable, providing a sense of privacy and calm that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Overall, AnaYela is a distinctive experience in Marrakesh. It’s certainly on the pricier side, but the combination of personalized service, authentic design, and serene environment makes it worth the splurge. For anyone looking for a hotel that feels intimate, unique, and truly Moroccan, I can recommend it.
The photos below were taken by me.
