If there’s one Moroccan destination that gives Marrakech a run for its money it terms of high-end boutique stays, it’s definitely Fes. This ancient city in the country’s north is considered the cultural capital of Morocco, with architectural treasures and energised souks at every turn. In Fes, there really is a feeling that you’re stepping back in time - the sights, sounds and scents of this centuries-old urban centre really do envelop the senses.
Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the streets are some incredible hotels and riads, many of which occupy beautiful old buildings that have been lovingly restored. I’m not talking big-name global brands with hundreds of rooms but gorgeous boutique stays offering an intimate and exclusive experience. They’re ideal for anyone who is interested in Moroccan architecture or just wants to have a peaceful oasis to retreat to at the end of the day.
In this article, I’ll share with your five of the best luxury boutique hotels in Fes, including some magnificent old riads and a contemporary property with jaw-dropping views. Not only are the rooms and suites amazing but the onsite experiences include everything from traditional hammams and spas to cooking classes and calligraphy lessons.
Arches frame a poolside lounge at Hôtel Sahrai in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
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Best luxury boutique riad in Fes with a spa
Tucked away in the historic heart of Fes, Riad Fes is a boutique oasis of luxury and tranquility. In the centrepiece courtyard, you’ll find a stunning display of Moorish architecture, with intricate tilework, ornate archways and plush sofas where you can soak up the old-world atmosphere. Beyond the opulent common areas, the hotel's spacious suites are equally impressive, each featuring a king-size bed and a Carrara marble bathroom (some with clawfoot tubs).
Foodies will delight in the hotel's acclaimed Gayza restaurant, which serves up authentic Moroccan cuisine and refined French dishes in a breathtaking setting. After a memorable meal, you can retreat to the rooftop bar to sip on Moroccan wines while taking in panoramic views across the city. The icing on the cake is the Cinq Mondes Spa, which boasts two hammams and three massage rooms where indulgent treatments are available.
"This place is absolutely amazing! A wonderful little oasis tucked in the medina of Fes.” - Smith (read more reviews here)
Best luxury boutique riads in Fes
An inner courtyard at Riad Fes - a Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best luxury boutique hotel in Fes with medina views
Boasting panoramic views across Fes from its hilltop setting, this magnificent hotel was envisioned by the acclaimed French designer Christophe Pillet. It fuses traditional Moroccan architectural elements with a distinctly contemporary feel - I particularly love the glass-walled bathrooms in the rooms and suites. In addition to zellige tiles, copper lanterns and Fassi ceramics, there are bespoke furnishings throughout the property.
Hôtel Sahrai is far more than just a place to stay - there are multiple restaurants serving Moroccan, French and Lebanese cuisine, as well as a rooftop lounge bar where you can watch the lights of Fes twinkling below. When you’re not indulging at the onsite spa (which uses products by Cinq Mondes and marocMaroc), you can learn the art of Arabic calligraphy with the help of a master.
"Fantastic boutique hotel, will definitely stay again.” - Christy (read more reviews here)
Best luxury boutique hotels in Fes
An infinity pool overlooking the medina at Hôtel Sahrai - a luxury boutique hotel in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best luxury boutique riad in Fes with a hammam
Occupying a 17th-century palace that has been reimagined for the 21st century, Karawan Riad is undeniably one of the best luxury boutique hotels in Fes. It has been meticulously restored using traditional materials - handcrafted zellige, intricate plasterwork and wrought-iron - and impresses with its soaring proportions.
Artefacts collected from around the globe feature in the seven individually decorated suites, which are generous in their size, to say the least. Fine dining is the focus of the Karawan Restaurant (the breakfasts are also a treat) and there’s a magnificent rooftop terrace where you can drink in the views. Adding to the appeal of this boutique Fes hotel is the Leelah Hammam & Spa, an Ottoman-style sanctuary complete with vaulted ceilings and heated floors.
“The attention to detail in the riad is exquisite!.” - Fiona (read more reviews here)
Best luxury boutique riads in Fes
Spectacular views across Fes from the rooftop terrace of Karawan Riad (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best luxury boutique hotel in Fes for families
Steeped in history, this boutique hotel in the Fes medina traces its origins back to the 14th century. It seamlessly blends timeless Moroccan elegance with modern comforts, with each of its signature suites a masterpiece in design (think Islamic motifs, intricate tilework, plush furnishings and gilded accents). For families, there’s an exclusive three-bedroom riad that offers access to all of the property’s facilities.
Guests can bask in the hotel's grandeur from the breathtaking terraces, which afford panoramic vistas across Fes' maze-like streets. When it's time to dine, the acclaimed Restaurant Dar Tazi serves up traditional Moroccan flavours with a modern twist, all while surrounded by its legendary hanging gardens. To top it all off, the newly opened spa provides the perfect oasis of rejuvenation after a day of discovering the city's ancient wonders.
“Every detail of Palais de Fes echoes love for Moroccan tradition and a keen understanding of luxury.” - Haitam (read more reviews here)
Best luxury boutique hotels in Fes
One of the luxurious suites at Palais de Fes Suites & Spa (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best luxury boutique hotel in Fes with cooking classes
Occupying the former home of the prominent Lahlou family, Palais Amani is a luxury boutique hotel within the walls of Fes' ancient medina. Parts of the palace date back to the 17th century, although it was largely rebuilt in the 1930s following a devastating landslide. During the 2000s, the property was lovingly restored into the gorgeous five-star hotel seen today.
In addition to its 21 rooms (each of which is individually decorated), there’s a gourmet restaurant set within a leafy patio and a fireside bar, perfect for cosying up on a winter’s evening. You can learn the secrets of Fassi cuisine at the onsite cooking school, which offers wonderful views across medina, or indulge with a traditional hammam followed by a massage at Les Bains Amani.
Top tip: Even if you’re not staying at Palais Amani, you can attend the cooking school, which is considered one of the best in Fes.
"The hotel was very luxurious and relaxing…The courtyard was beautiful and the terrace with the views of the old Medina was stunning especially at night.” - Mina (read more reviews here)
Best luxury boutique hotels in Fes
Romantic courtyard dining at Palais Amani - a luxury boutique hotel in Fes (photo courtesy of Expedia)
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.