Riad Samsli

As my deluxe tour of Marrakech continues I find that what I would like most is to be able to literally step out of the door into the heart of one of my favourite spots, the busy and bustling market of Jemaa el-Fnaa, where I can end the day in a little café overlooking the rooftops with my cup of mint tea. And then, with no need to go far, to go 'home' to my little retreat and cosy up in a sumptuous bedroom, far from the noise and joyful chaos beyond. My wish is granted immediately in the form of the Riad Samsli, which couldn't be closer to the famous market, and my fresh mint tea Mecca, yet still manages to retain a dignified serenity. A place my love and I can retire to when we're overly hot or overly tired, closing the door on the buzzing world just outside, as we open the door into a balmy, beautiful world within.

We do just this one dazzlingly hot afternoon, turning our backs for the time being on this spellbinding ochre city that has us perpetually enchanted, we have booked for lunch in the riad’s restaurant just before arriving as its reputation for home-cooked, exquisite cuisine precedes it. What an excellent decision! Sitting in the dappled shade of one of its patios we are served a mouth-watering lunch of a traditional tagine with dates, almonds, fleshy tomatoes and mint prepared with a flair and care that can be tasted in every bite. Once full we return to our lovely room for a brief siesta in the large, elegant bed. I close my eyes to the half-light filtering in through the shutters along with the tantalising wafts of perfumed flowers and awake some time later longing to take a dip in the tiled, turquoise pool I spotted earlier.

The sun has shifted and now a gentle golden glow illuminates the picturesque, light décor of our bedroom - delicate details, ornate windows, rustic wooden doors, mosaic tiling, white bedding and soft pastel shades and earthy tones. I slip out of bed and step into the shower before wrapping myself in one of the fluffy dressing gowns and going to wake my sleepy man. The promise that he need only move from the bed to a deckchair outside eventually coaxes him up, particularly as I mention the surprise I have prepared for him - an evening session in the hammam along with a pampering Argan oil massage with essential oils followed by a romantic dinner right here in the hotel. Today we are not moving beyond the doors of this refreshing, sweet oasis and by the time morning dawns the next day, we are as relaxed and happy as two pampered cats who got the cream.