La Maison Arabe, Discreet Luxury in the Heart of Marrakech

By Massimo Terracina

The hidden charm of Moroccan riads, the ancient houses with patios and many rooms on multiple levels, built around splendid inner gardens and hidden from outside view by high walls, is undeniable. Riad literally means garden, and these courtyards, somewhat like the patios of ancient Hispanic houses, are a highlight.

Marrakech, like the rest of the country, celebrates this uniqueness, which in recent years has been transformed into a nouvelle vague that somewhat replaces the classic hotel concept—although there are a couple of establishments in this city among the most renowned, luxurious, and fabulous in the world.

Less than 20 minutes from the airport, about a kilometer from the legendary Jemaa el-Fnaa square, in a side alley, lies a jewel of hospitality: La Maison Arabe, a unique boutique hotel with an interesting history, right in the heart of Marrakech’s Medina.

Created by combining several riads, it blends tradition and international comfort to offer a unique experience of discreet luxury, gastronomy, wellness, attentive service, and authenticity.

The history of this “house” dates back to 1930, when two enterprising women, Hélène Sebillon-Larochette and her daughter, Suzy, decided to settle here. In 1946, just after the war, they opened the first traditional Moroccan restaurant in the medina of the Red City open to foreigners, just steps from the Bab Doukkala mosque.

It was named La Maison Arabe precisely to emphasize the saveur française (French flavor) in Africa.

Famous guests included Winston Churchill, whose portrait still hangs in the riad's corridors, Queen Ingrid of Denmark, Charles de Gaulle, Ernest Hemingway, Rita Hayworth, and Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis.

In 1994, after a long period of closure following the death of Sebillon-Larochette, Italian aristocrat Prince Fabrizio Ruspoli, a great lover of Morocco, purchased it and transformed it into a boutique hotel, the first of its kind in the Medina, with a forward-thinking vision of hospitality.

After an initial renovation in 1998, featuring Moroccan-style majolica, paintings, and zellij tiles, as well as restored gardens, patio, and pool—around which the restaurant operates—La Maison began its new life, establishing itself as one of the most prestigious riads in the city.

In 2019, it underwent another change of ownership, this time with the acquisition by Cenizaro Hotels & Resorts, which further enhanced the diffused structure, restoring the charm of grand colonial-era hotels where time seems to stand still.

This is La Maison Arabe, located in the beating heart of the historic Medina of Marrakech. It offers an unparalleled retreat for those seeking both discreet luxury and tradition. Staying here is like being transported to the true essence of Morocco, where every corner tells a story, imbued with elegance and romantic colonial culture.

Rooms & Spaces

At La Maison Arabe, every room is different. Elegance and impeccable service are the hallmarks of the property. Its 45 rooms and suites form a luxurious retreat in the heart of the Medina.

Inside the main building, a labyrinth of levels and spaces leads to rooms or lounges. Everything revolves around the patio onto which the rooms overlook—a perfect blend of Moorish design and Western comfort.

Spacious bathrooms, refined furnishings showcasing local craftsmanship, and often a separate sitting area and wardrobe characterize the guest rooms.

La Maison Arabe is also ideal for those wishing to unwind after a day exploring the bustling souk and historic monuments of Marrakech. The bar, where Amil plays an old piano, creates a captivating ambiance, while the underground spa, run by skilled therapists, offers a complete relaxation experience.

The hotel is surrounded by secluded gardens, an oasis of tranquility far from the hustle and bustle of the medina.

The Riad Elegancia

A true annex just a few meters from La Maison Arabe, this wing unfolds around a two-story patio with 11 period rooms and a rooftop reserved for the top-floor suite (287). Impeccable, friendly service accompanies guests throughout their stay, with full access to the main building’s services.

Gastronomy

The gastronomic heritage, inherited from the original restaurant, is a journey through the authentic flavors of Morocco.

There are three places to savor high-class cuisine:

• The Moroccan Restaurant – Traditional dishes such as tagine and pastilla, prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

• Les Trois Saveurs – An international à la carte menu featuring French, local, and Asian cuisine, served around the indoor pool for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, accompanied by Arabic-Andalusian string music.

• The Rooftop – Innovative dishes combining Moroccan tradition with international flavors, in a picturesque terrace setting overlooking the Medina.

Experiences

Guests can enjoy quad biking in the desert, city walks, and cooking classes to learn the art of traditional Moroccan cuisine.

For immersive experiences, Moroccan cooking workshops are offered under the guidance of an expert Berber chef.

For the adventurous, camel rides at “Yes We Camp” (an hour from Marrakech toward the Atlas Mountains) or quad bike rides followed by a refreshing pool dip and lunch in air-conditioned tents offer unforgettable memories.

The Spa

Renowned for its spa, La Maison Arabe offers a traditional hammam. A scrub in the steam bath, followed by mud application and a revitalizing massage, is a signature experience.

Exclusive treatments such as the La Maison Arabe Signature Hammam feature body scrubs, masks, and relaxing massages, using argan oil, honey, and other Moroccan natural products with traditional techniques.

La Maison Arabe embodies the modern traveler’s demand for authentic, place-immersive experiences. From the evocative atmosphere to the warm hospitality, every detail invites guests to fall in love not only with the Maison, but above all with Morocco, the true Kingdom of Light.