Restored Moorish palace
Lanterns cast a warm glow across the central courtyard, where orange trees and a fountain create a tranquil medina retreat.
“Hidden behind unassuming doors, this 17th-century palace provides respite from the frenetic bustle of the medina without sacrificing sense of place.”
What it’s good at
Remarkable
A restored seventeenth-century palace preserving antique zellij tilework and carved plaster filigrees.
Notable
A seventeenth-century Carrara marble hammam with eucalyptus black-soap body scrubs and clay masks.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
Also in AFAR.
Like many classic riads, Riad Laaroussa has brilliantly restored the captivating Moorish visual appeal and storybook construction details of this 17th-century landmark.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Tucked into the pedestrian alleys of Fes El Bali, the riad sits steps from Medersa Bou Inania and the Blue Gate.
The rooms
Color-themed quarters showcase intricate zellij tilework and carved plaster keyholes, with smooth tadelakt showers and fireplaces in the suites.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
A heated swimming pool sits under a wooden pergola, tucked into the quiet of the walled courtyard garden.
The spa
Candlelit treatment rooms host massages with argan and orange blossom oils, followed by Atlas Mountain ghassoul clay masks.
Restaurant
Bistro Laaroussa Rooftop Terrace
Lounging daybeds and dining tables look out across the medina rooftops toward Mount Zalagh and the Marinid Tombs.
Restaurant
Bistro Laaroussa
Market-fresh Moroccan cooking and Meknes wines fill the glass-fronted dining room, warmed by an open fireplace on cooler nights.
How it began
Frédéric Sola and his family carefully restored this 17th-century palace, preserving its historic cedar woodwork and delicate Moorish filigrees.
Good to know
Stay here
Riad Laaroussa
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Fez
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.