Garden of the Soul
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A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Marrakech
During my last trip to Morocco, I had the pleasure of staying at Riad Botanica, a beautifully designed new riad nestled in the heart of Marrakech’s Medina.
Created by Angela and Mohamed, an Australian-Moroccan couple with an eye for detail and a passion for hospitality, Riad Botanica is a true labor of love. Their vision transformed this space into an intimate retreat where every corner tells a story.
In this article, I’ll take you inside Riad Botanica, sharing its essence, philosophy, and the journey behind its creation.
All photos in this article are © mine or provided by the riad where indicated.
Where Moroccan Craft Meets Art Deco Elegance
Riad Botanica is a true hidden gem, not just for its picturesque courtyard centered around a vibrant orange tree, but for the thoughtful details woven into every corner.
Blending Moroccan craftsmanship with Australian Art Deco influences, the decor is a seamless fusion of tradition and modern elegance. Every material has been carefully selected for its quality, and the restoration process prioritized the work of local artisans. Beyond aesthetics, the riad has been designed as a sanctuary—offering spaces that invite relaxation, connection, and a sense of tranquility.
A Story of Passion, Wellness, and Timeless Elegance
Angela and Mohamed first crossed paths in the souks of Marrakech in 2012, and together, they have crafted a space where effortless luxury and authenticity go hand in hand.
Their passion for health and wellness is deeply embedded in Riad Botanica. Every plant within the riad has a purpose—whether as a medicinal balm, an ingredient for a nourishing meal, or a soothing tea. This philosophy is beautifully embodied by the majestic central orange tree, which has thrived for decades, likely sustained by the riad’s original well. Once home to an aristocratic family, this historic space has been passed down through generations.
Today, Riad Botanica stands renewed, with a fully restored infrastructure—including modernized electrical, plumbing, and structural systems—seamlessly blending heritage with contemporary comfort.
A Prime Location with a Charming Terrace Experience
Riad Botanica enjoys an exceptional location in the Bab Doukkala area of the Medina, offering a different atmosphere than the bustling streets near Jemaa el-Fna. While still within walking distance of the square, its surroundings feel more refined and serene. I personally love this part of Marrakech—it’s central yet tranquil, with Mouassine, Dar El Bacha, The Secret Garden, and other key landmarks just moments away.
The rooftop terrace is a highlight of the riad. Breakfast is served here each morning, and it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a light snack at golden hour, soak up the sun on the loungers, or even indulge in a private lunch or dinner. As the day fades, the terrace offers stunning sunset views, painting the sky in beautiful colors.
The Journey to Finding and Restoring a Dream Riad in Marrakech
Have you ever wondered what it takes to find, acquire, and restore a Riad in Marrakech? It all begins with a dream—a vision fueled by excitement, slowly taking shape until it becomes reality. The journey is often challenging, but the satisfaction of bringing a historic space back to life and sharing it with others is immeasurable.
For Angela, 2020 was a turning point. While the world was shutting down, she found the Riad of her dreams, and soon after, her daughter Zahara was born. The search was anything but easy. She explored countless Riads, first in person and later remotely from Australia, carefully selecting the perfect one.
Marrakech offers a vast market of Riads, many in disrepair, requiring extensive investment to restore their former beauty. Some have shrunk over time, others feature crumbling mud walls, and many are outdated in terms of plumbing and electricity. Yet, despite their condition, each holds the essence of Moroccan heritage—intricate doors, handcrafted windows, and ornamental locks that tell stories of craftsmanship and pride.
The challenge isn’t just finding the right space—it’s also navigating Morocco’s complex property system. One of the biggest obstacles is “Milkea,” referring to properties without proper registration. Encountering an unregistered Riad can complicate the buying process, adding layers of stress when you think you’ve finally found the one.
Yet, for those with patience and vision, the reward is extraordinary—breathing new life into a historic home and creating a place where past and present coexist beautifully.
Riad Botanica: A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship and Design
Choosing a favorite common area in Riad Botanica is no easy task. From the moment you step inside, the space embraces you with warmth and elegance. Every corner offers a stunning perspective, showcasing an exceptional renovation and thoughtful design.
Officially opened in January 2023, Riad Botanica is the result of meticulous craftsmanship and a passion for detail. Angela walked me through the high-end finishes she carefully selected, from the handcrafted zellige tiles that replaced the original concrete flooring—each piece laid with precision—to the striking Italian green marble bar, and the intricately hand-carved doors.
This attention to detail transforms the Riad into more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience for the cultured traveler—someone who values fine craftsmanship, exquisite finishes, and the comfort of a refined home away from home. The renovation of this space is a true labor of love, where every detail tells a story of artistry and elegance.
Riad Botanica’s Suites: A Blend of Elegance and Craftsmanship
Riad Botanica offers four luxury suites and an apartment, each uniquely designed yet sharing a common thread of exquisite craftsmanship and refined aesthetics.
Every room features hand-carved wooden shutters and doors, while the walls are adorned with iconic wallpaper by Australian designer Florence Broadhurst in varying hues. Above the beds, intricately carved plaster arches serve as elegant headboards, complemented by Carrara marble side tables. The bathrooms showcase zellige tiles in rich tones, polished tadelakt surfaces, and ambient lighting from hand-carved lamps that cast mesmerizing patterns at night. Underfoot, Beni Ourain or kilim rugs provide warmth and texture, changing with the seasons.
Each detail has been thoughtfully curated to create a space that is as luxurious as it is inviting, offering guests an experience of Marrakech that is both sophisticated and deeply connected to its artisanal heritage.
As you’ve seen in this post, Riad Botanica is a fantastic choice for your stay in Marrakech. Ideally located, it offers a peaceful retreat that will surprise you the moment you step inside.
I wish Angela and Mohamed the best in this beautiful journey and sincerely thank them for their warm hospitality. Their kindness and attention to detail made my stay truly unforgettable—it’s always a pleasure to meet such wonderful people along the way.
Click here to see more photos, availability & prices at Riad Botanica
I’ll be back soon with another post about one of the incredible places I visited on this trip to Morocco.