Riad Noir d'Ivoire

Trip advisor proved so wrong. I've been to Marrakech many times and this was my first visit back since Covid. Having done detailed research I chose Riad Noire . Wow I got is so wrong. In future I think I need to focus on the less than glamorous reviews as they do tell a story. In its heyday this riad must have been outstanding - a great deal of money has been spent on luxury fittings. However it is now jaded, unattended and falling into disrepair. Planters left to either weeds or bare earth, showers not working (2days) and requiring a degree in engineering to get a decent constant temperature. Walls cracked and lighting in some areas not working which meant walking it dark stair wells very treacherous. Towels and bathrobes grey and threadbare. Breakfast was the same every day- if you do not like eggs you are in trouble and one day they had forgotten to order orange juice. My biggest criticism however was the lack of privacy. All rooms overlook well used court yards and the noise was intolerable - you could clearly hear conversations from people in the pool and there was a singer amplified, playing music until late at night - he actually was rather good. But not for 5 hours. I wish could upload a sound bite. Yes there are plus things, the bar and cocktails and the staff were excellent. However this Riad does NOT deserve the rating it gets – it's overpriced and there are far batter options. We were glad to leave, it soured our whole trip to what is a magical destination.

Oh my goodness I’m not sure where to start From the moment we were met at the airport to the minute we left we were made to feel special. Hassan and his team are amazing, effortlessly seeing to your every need. The owner, Stephen is lovely too. The riad is stunning, you can really tell that it has been lovingly put together and the attention to detail is brilliant. We stayed in the chameleon junior suite and loved it. The bed was super comfortable. The food served in the riad was some of the best we’ve ever had, and likewise the cocktails. The spa is a treat - the relaxation massage was out of this world. Before coming we’d read some of the negative reviews about loud music but there was none. Please don’t be put off by these reviews - this riad is stunning and if you don’t stay here you’re missing out. We’ll be back.

We were greeted on our arrival at 10.50pm by loud live music which plays most nights until very late. We discovered over the next few nights that we were unable to get a proper nights sleep because on the loudness of the music. The Riad was a nice place but not if you need a decent nights sleep.