Riad Dollar Des Sables Guest House Marrakech Morocco

�Best Riad - location, hospitality and service�
Reshie
London
Mar 25, 2008

Our stay in this Riad was wonderful, the staff were fabulous and provided an amazing service. The breakfast was delicious, the owner recommended restaurants for the evening - making our reservations for us. We were walked to our restaurant by the NightGuard. The Riad is seconds away from the Medina. I would advise that you try and book a transfer from the airport to the Riad, as it is hard to find the first time. We also booked an evening meal at the Riad which was one of my best meals - I would highly recommend this Riad.

Toronto
Mar 8, 2008

We stayed at Riad Dollar des Sables around New Year 2008 and used it as a base for travelling to other locations in Morocco. Cathy, the owner, was friendly and helpful, and her staff were the same. Everyone was willing to help us with reservations for restaurants, provide information about the area, store our luggage between visits, and even guide us to our restaurant since the Medina was so confusing! The location was great, right in the heart of the old Medina, but also a quiet, calm spot to relax in. We had the deluxe room which was comfortable and clean. Cathy also responded promptly to emails and even followed up to confirm our flight arrival. The credit card equipment wasn't working when we checked out so we had to pay cash (ATM nearby), but that seems to be expected with accommodation in Marrakesh.

�Great Retreat nearthe Medina�

cbcoakley
Columbus,USA, GA
Jan 29, 2008

This was our first trip to Morrocco and we were initially taken back by the bustle of activity surrounding the Marrakech Medina. I'd definitely recommend calling Katie (the extraordinarily courteous owner of the Riad) to set up a guide from the Medina to the Riad-- as finding Riad Doller des Sables for the first time is difficult (a day or so of navigation and you'll have no problems finding your way).

Abdel, Katie's housekeeper, bent over backwards to help us carry our luggage.

Abdel's taking English classes at a local college and aims to be involved with hospitality.
His manners and demeanor were impeccable. Don't be dismayed as Adel weaves you through the 300m or so walk along back alleys to reach the Riad, because the reward is worth it.

Upon opening a non descript wooden door off of one of the Medina alleys, you'll find yourself transported into a true Morroccan Oasis.

Dollar des Sables is a true Riad--meaning it is small, a single "extended family" house. Pale blue and white tilework meets you past the door and is consistent with the Riad's "beachy" theme.
Katie had spearmint tea waiting for us in the guest area, and we had a long meet and greet experience with her, abdel and her cook.

Post introductions, Katie showed us to the suite upstairs.

She had surprised us by strewing rose petals across the floor and bath. The decor was tasteful, clean and worthy of a couple looking for a special retreat for their first wedding anniversary.

The riad water pressure is a little low in November (Marrakech water restrictions), but Katie makes up for it with her traditional roof top morroccon steam room.

The steam room seems to have been around as long as the Riad (a couple hundred years) and is a two person structure.

It's very clean and actually runs on wood. Very refreshing. I wish I had one at home.

Katie extends your Morroccon experience by offering savory Morroccon cuisine (extra charge upon your notice).

My wife and I visited two 5 star restaurants while in Marrakech and we both agreed that Katie's fare was as good, if not better, than the restaurants.

So if you want great Morroccon cuisine at a much more reasonable price, stay at home--you won't be disappointed!

Katie has put her heart and soul in Riad Dollar des Sables--and it shows. You may find more elaborate Riad's, but Dollar Des Sables has a personal touch that makes you want to head home after trekking around the dusty Medina. I'd go back every year if I could.

�A great find! Lovely riad, perfect location and charming host�
Warsaw
Dec 8, 2007

A review on the Guardian website recommended this Riad. And it was absolutely right. A special place - small, stylishly decorated, with a lovely relaxing atmosphere and a charming host and friendly staff. The location was perfect too - hidden away just 5 minutes from the main square (Jemaa el Fna) and 2 minutes from the souks/markets. We will definitely return.

See "Tripadvisor" website to read other recent reviews.