HOTELGUESTHOUSERIADGUESTHOUSEHOTELDh550-750, ste 770-1430; ) This delightful and intimate guesthouse comes in two halves:
the original Safir is a homely confection that swaps the traditional zellij and plaster of some
places for swathes of soft fabrics and carpets in creams and warm oranges, and plenty of
wood. Recently expanded next door, the newer section is all ultramodern chic, with stylishly
restrained colours and artful decoration. An unexpected, but winning, contrast.
Maroc Hôtel €
Offline map Google map ( 0535 53 00 75; 7 Rue Rouamzine; s/d/tr Dh100/200/270) Aperennially popular shoestring option, the Maroc has kept its standards up over the many years
we’ve been visiting. Friendly and quiet, rooms (with sinks) are simple, and the shared
bathrooms are clean. The terrace and courtyard filled with orange trees add to the ambience.
Riad Lahboul €€
Offline map Google map ( 0535 55 98 78; www.riadlahboul.com; 6 Derb Ain Sefli, Rouamzine;s/d from Dh610/780; ) A family-friendly guesthouse run by a Moroccan-English couple. You
enter into a salon in high-Moroccan style, but above this the seven rooms are positively cosy
(although a couple felt a tad cramped). Dining in is a good option as the food is excellent, and
the location puts you on the edge of the medina and across from the Jardin el Haboul if you
need to escape from the city hustle.
Maison d’Hôtes Riad €€
Offline map Google map ( 0535 53 05 42; www.riadmeknes.com; 79 Ksar Chaacha, Dar el-
Kabir; r incl breakfast Dh650-750; ) This riad is located amid the ruins of the Palais Ksar
Chaacha, the 17th-century imperial residence of Moulay Ismail. There are just six rooms, each
tastefully decorated in traditional-meets-modern style, plus some unexpected touches like the
collection of African masks and the wall of old clocks and radios. This place is noted for its
food, and there are a couple of different salons where you can eat, or just relax by the chic
plunge pool and cactus garden.
Riad d’Or €€
Offline map Google map ( 0641 07 86 25; www.riaddor.com; 17 Derb el Anboub; r Dh550-900;
) This converted townhouse is a warren of a place, with 14 rooms tumbling around
unexpected courtyards and staircases. The variety on offer hides some good value: many
rooms can sleep four or more people, so it’s worth enquiring in advance of booking. The
biggest surprise is hidden on one of the roof terraces: who expected to find a swimming pool
there?
Hôtel Regina €
Offline map Google map ( 0535 53 02 80; 19 Rue Dar Smen; s/d/tr Dh70/100/130, shower Dh5)This ultracheapie frankly feels a bit threadbare, but it’s not entirely without merit. Rooms are
completely no-frills, but the central courtyard opens the place up and wards off claustrophobia.
Showers cost extra, and there’s no guarantee of hot water.