Atlas North: A Tour through Portugal, Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria
A review of Riad Alya for a single night stay during a stay in Fez, Morocco.
Highlights
- Opulent rooms and suites are an attraction in themselves.
- Courtesy friendly service and management.
- High terrace with incredible view over the old city.
- In house restaurant and spa available.
Experience
On entering Ryad Alya, the reception asked us to sit and soon arrived the manager, Mr. Hassan Cohen who welcomed us with mint tea and Moroccan cookies.
We were given a brief tour of the property and settled into the beautiful room.
After a day of touring Fez, we returned for drinks on the high terrace overlooking the night scene of the old medina.
We had an early departure the next day and the staff prepared a breakfast pack to bring with us. Inside were fresh cakes and cookies.
Location
Located in the west of the medina, Ryad Alya is a couple of blocks from the main road, offering easy access with luggage.
Walking deeper into the old city, all attractions are easily reachable.
Service
The manager was very much available and helpful to make sure our stay was pleasant. Service by the reception was also very friendly and accommodating.
Room
Each of the rooms are uniquely decorated in a different style from glitzy to romantic.
We stayed in the Casablanca Suite which featured stylish baroque design with silver accents.
There is a seating room with a fancy couch on entering the room. The center of the room is a large king sized bed with a seating area at the base. Facing a window with drapes, natural light from the courtyard shines in.
The enormous bathroom is the highlight of this suite. It is centered around a jacuzzi with a separate shower, closet, and two sinks.
The rooms come with all standard amenities like flat screen TV, minibar, and wifi through the property.
Activities
- Tours: As most visitors are tourist, the front desk can help arrange any tours or travel.
- Spa: The onsite hammam should not be missed. Enjoy a treatment with the olive based black soap before your entire body is scrubbed in a traditional cleansing.
- Terrace: Head up to the terrace to enjoy sweeping views of the medina, both in daytime and at night.
Dining
The restaurant with seating in the central courtyard serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We only had a chance to sample the breakfast which included many types of Moroccan bread. They pride themselves on the usage of fresh produce and items purchased from the market on a daily basis. Try a traditional coucous with seven vegetables or their candied lemon tagine.
Summary
Ryad Alya provides a luxurious experience while maintaining the traditional feel of a private ryad and the experience of Moroccan hospitality. Each room showcases a different style but all are lavishly decorated.
The “high” in the title of the hotel “alya” is demonstrated by the amazing views from the rooftop terrace.
For the traveler searching for a mix of luxury and culture, I recommend Ryad Alya on your stay in Fes.
Contact
Riad Alya
Address: 8 Rue Derb El Guebbas Batha Medina-Fes, Morocco
Phone: +212535633044
Website: http://www.fes-ryadalya.com
Email: jamil.riad.alya@gmail.com