Les Borjs de la Kasbah, Marrakech

Last Updated on January 26, 2025

Rocking the Kasbah in Style

Why visit Marrakech? Few places weave together chaos, charm, and beauty as effortlessly as this vibrant city. For years, it has been at the top of my bucket list – friends have returned with stories of kaleidoscopic souks, peaceful riads, and unforgettable adventures, leaving me eager to see it for myself. From the moment you arrive, the city’s energy is palpable. Whether you’re wandering (and inevitably losing your way) through the medina’s twisting alleys, sipping mint tea on a sunlit rooftop, or debating the logistics of packing a Berber rug, Marrakech pulls you in completely. Beyond the city, the snow-dusted Atlas Mountains invite exploration, hammams offer quiet rejuvenation, and the Jardin Majorelle stuns with its bold, vibrant beauty. Marrakech isn’t just a place to visit – it’s a city that lingers with you long after you’ve left.

Travelling to Marrakech

After a four-hour flight direct from London Gatwick, we arrived in Marrakech to the lively chaos of the airport. The queues at passport control were longer than we’d hoped, but any frustration quickly melted away when we spotted our driver from Les Borjs de la Kasbah, patiently waiting to greet us. A short 20-minute drive later, we reached the heart of the city and our home for the trip – a stunning riad tucked inside the city walls, just a short walk from the buzz of the medina. It felt like the perfect base to dive headfirst into the magic of Marrakech, blending tranquil comfort with easy access to the city’s lively energy.

About Les Borjs de la Kasbah

First impressions of Marrakech are striking – a sweep of ochre-toned walls, sun-dappled streets, and air rich with the aroma of spices. Here, tucked away in the Kasbah district is Les Borjs de la Kasbah, a charming family-run riad that perfectly captures the essence of Moroccan hospitality. Set along a lane painted in earthy pinks and terracotta hues, vivid against the endless blue skies, this 18-room retreat exudes a sense of quiet elegance.

Run by Englishman Tom and his Moroccan wife, Nora, the property offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. While it’s only a 15-minute walk from the Medina’s hustle and bustle, its location in the Kasbah allows guests to immerse themselves in a quieter, more characterful side of Marrakech, perfect for those who want to explore beyond the main tourist trail.

The story of Les Borjs de la Kasbah began in 2004, when Tom’s parents, Mike and Françoise Bruce-Mitford, French tour operators with a deep appreciation for Morocco, took on an ambitious project. Instead of restoring a single building, they brought together a complex of six small town houses (dars) and one riad, carefully transforming them over three years. The result is a harmonious blend of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, from intricate hand-carved stucco and wrought ironwork to vibrant zellige tiles and polished tadelakt walls. Designed by Moroccan architect Moulay Hicham Charai, the riad opened its doors in December 2006, with its beautiful swimming pool completed the following summer. Today, Les Borjs de la Kasbah feels like a true reflection of Morocco’s rich heritage, offering a peaceful and authentic escape within the city walls.

Step through its large stone doorway, and you’re greeted by a welcoming reception area, a cosy bar, and an inviting dining room. Beyond this lies the heart of the property – the prettiest courtyard, which gives the riad its name and status. A riad, after all, is a traditional Moroccan house or palace designed around a central courtyard or garden. Here, the space brims with character: orange trees and climbing roses frame a serene water fountain, all set against a stunning tiled floor that showcases the artistry of Arabo-Moorish design.

Off the courtyard, you’ll find a fabulous lounge area, painted a rich red and adorned with plush velvet cushions, a relaxing library, and access to the spa and hammam, as well as the beautiful swimming pool flanked by sun loungers, which must be a dream in the warmer months. While the December sun brings moments of warmth during the day, the cooler air and crisp evenings serve as a gentle reminder that it’s winter, revealing a different but equally enchanting side of Marrakech.

Rooms at Les Borjs de la Kasbah

Travelling with a friend, we stayed in a twin bedroom on the first floor, overlooking a quaint courtyard where a dove had nested in a tree just outside our window. The room was elegantly furnished with dark wood furniture, thick wooden shutters, the soft pink walls complemented the red upholstery, while stone floors and richly patterned rugs brought warmth to the space.

Modern comforts included air conditioning, a safe, a minibar, and Wi-Fi, while cotton robes, fresh fruit, and a plate of confectionery offered welcoming touches that made us feel instantly at home. Our beautifully designed green tiled bathroom was spacious, featuring a bath-shower combination, double sinks, and aromatic, wonderfully scented products.

Accommodation options include Small, Standard, and Premium rooms. Across from us, a stunning suite stood out, featuring dark red walls, a majestic four-poster bed, and luxurious soft furnishings that radiated an air of timeless elegance.

Dining at Les Borjs de la Kasbah

The dining room at Les Borjs de la Kasbah features a glass roof that allows natural light to flood the space, complementing its tiled floors, wine-red tablecloths, matching rugs, and elegant billowing curtains. Every detail feels thoughtfully curated, from the soft glow of Moroccan lanterns to the rich textures and patterns that add warmth and character.

The staff were lovely – always dressed impeccably in their classic green tunics, they had a warmth and genuine friendliness that made every interaction feel special, like you were being truly looked after.

Dining here is a true delight. Breakfast is a generous affair, offering a varied buffet alongside a live egg station. Fresh juices, seasonal fruits, nuts, yoghurts, cheeses, freshly brewed coffee and tea, and an array of pastries await, along with piping hot porridge and the most delicious Moroccan breads and pancakes made to order. I couldn’t resist indulging in far more than I probably should have!

Dinner at Les Borjs de la Kasbah offers a wonderful selection of Moroccan and international dishes, showcasing fresh, high-quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. Starters range from delicate smoked salmon rolls with cream cheese and avocado to vibrant salads featuring creamy goat’s cheese, pears, and crisp vegetables.

Traditional Moroccan mains include delicious chicken tagines with lemon and olives or rich lamb tagines with caramelised prunes, almonds, and apricots. For dessert, options like a tangy lemon and mint parfait or orange segments with dates and cinnamon provide the perfect sweet finish. The menu offers something for everyone, all at very reasonable prices.

Exploring Marrakech

One of the greatest joys of Marrakech is simply getting lost in its labyrinth of streets, soaking up the city’s vibrant energy. Wandering through the medina, a sensory overload greets you at every turn—vivid piles of brightly coloured spices, beautiful rugs, glistening pots, the rhythmic clink of copperware being hammered, and the mouthwatering aroma of fresh bread wafting from hidden bakeries.

At some point, you’re sure to find yourself in Djemaa el Fna, the city’s lively main square, where the atmosphere is electric. Crowds gather, especially at sunset, to watch street performers, browse the bustling stalls, or relax in one of the many cafés surrounding the square.

Marrakech boasts several palaces and gardens, all within walking distance, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and architectural beauty. A must-visit is the Musee Yves Saint Laurent which celebrates the designer’s legacy through beautifully curated exhibits.

Just next door lies the stunning Jardin Majorelle, a vibrant garden renowned for its towering cacti, striking blue accents, and serene atmosphere – a perfect escape from the city’s bustle.

Another gem is El Badi Palace, or the “Incomparable Palace,” a 19th-century architectural masterpiece. Although partly in ruins, it remains an impressive symbol of Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur’s wealth and power, built in 1578 to commemorate his victory over the Portuguese at the Battle of the Three Kings. This once-grand palace offers visitors a glimpse of its former grandeur through its vast courtyard, towering walls, and remaining structures. Spot the stalks nesting in the towers!

One of my personal favourites, however, was Le Jardin Secret, a hidden oasis nestled in the heart of the medina. This peaceful retreat, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, is unique for its geometric design inspired by the Quranic vision of paradise. Lush greenery, fragrant orange and lemon trees heavy with fruit, and towering cacti create a dreamlike atmosphere. Take a seat at their café, sip on a refreshing drink, and let the tranquillity wash over you—it truly feels like stepping into another world.

A highlight of my stay was visiting the Atlas Mountains. Trips can be arranged, as we did, through Borjs de la Kasbah. We had a lovely driver named Cherif, who took us up into the mountains to a bustling Berber Monday souk—quite fascinating and a true feast for the senses. Afterwards, we continued further up the mountain to Ourika Valley, before embarking on a guided hike through the breathtaking mountain scenery.

Hamman & Spa at Les Borjs de la Kasbah

But no trip to Marrakech is complete without experiencing the ritual of a hammam, a cornerstone of Moroccan culture. At Les Borjs de la Kasbah, they have their own private hammam, seamlessly blending tradition with luxury. One morning, we decided to take a break from the city’s hustle and indulge in this time-honoured tradition. I relaxed in the steamy warmth, was scrubbed down with fragrant black soap, and emerged refreshed, my skin glowing and my mind at ease – a quintessential Marrakech experience that everyone should try. Massages and other treatments are also available.

New Year’s Eve at Les Borjs de la Kasbah

To top off our stay, we joined the New Year celebrations at Les Borjs de la Kasbah – a truly magical experience. The evening started with cocktails around the candlelit pool, with fire-eaters and Moroccan drummers putting on a mesmerising show. Later, we moved to the canopied courtyard for a delicious five-course dinner, complete with lively belly dancing that added an entertaining flair to the night. It was the perfect way to ring in the New Year!

I couldn’t have asked for a better place to stay in Marrakech. Tom, Nora, and their lovely team made us feel so at home with their warm hospitality. Perfectly located and full of charm, this beautifully designed riad offered everything I could have hoped for… I’d go back in a heartbeat!

Factbox for Marrakech and Les Borjs de la Kasbah

Les Borjs de la Kasbah

Address: 200 Rue Bab Ksiba, Marrakech 40000, Morocco

Phone: +212 5243-81101

I flew to Morocco from Gatwick Airport, and my journey started on a high note thanks to Holiday Extras. The meet-and-greet parking was seamless and stress-free, and I got to relax in style with a delicious meal and drinks in the luxurious Clubrooms South lounge. It was the perfect way to kick off the trip!

Holiday Extras is the market leader in UK airport parking, hotels, lounges, and transfers – and last year its customers saved an average of £196 per trip by booking their airport parking in advance.  

Booking means you can enjoy more holiday with less hassle. Plus with Flextras, if you need to cancel or amend you can without charge. Eight days of parking at I Love Valet Parking plus lounge access at Clubrooms South at Gatwick Airport is available for £176 based on arrival on Wednesday 22nd January.

For more information and to book, HolidayExtras.com or call 0800 316 5678. 

For more about the city check our feature from 2024 on how to spend 48 hours in Marrakech