If ever there was a hotel designed with a cultural experience in mind, it was the Riad Dar El Kebira. Located in the Medina of Rabat adjacent to the Rue des Consuls and Kasbah of Oudayas, the hotel is near the west bank of the river Abou Regreg and close to both the port and the seafront. All this means the hotel is perfectly positioned for those who want to spend their time exploring this fascinating and historic city. However, what may come as a surprise is just how much history and culture is located within the four walls of the hotel itself.
The architecture is classically Moorish, with the original glory of the building being restored and furnished in the same style to maintain its authenticity. Like so many guest houses of its time, the roof is an important part of the whole. On there is a terrace on which meals and refreshments can be enjoyed with a panoramic view across the old city. Despite being relatively small with ten rooms, the hotel still has some outstanding facilities. The Hammam (Turkish bath) and Spa offers true luxury and a chance to detox and relax in superb comfort. A traditional hammam treatment will involve scrubbing and soaping, followed by henna body envelopment and ghassoul, while spa treatments include massages, French manicures, pedicures and nail polish, face modelling, waxing, bikini line waxing and eyebrows. Men can even get their chest hair done. This wide array of choice is just one of the ways in which the hotel, despite its size, lacks nothing in five-star quality.
Another great example of this can be found in each guest room, which will be beautifully decorated, with the cosiest of beds and splendid patio views. For catering, the hotel offers a wonderful restaurant with Moroccan pottery and a traditional local menu, ensuring that one of Morocco’s greatest traditions – its cuisine – is not missed. With the hotel also offering airport transfers, golf days and city tours, it makes the perfect base for those who want to relax, be indulged and discover this fascinating city.
