If you’re looking for a super stylish city break this Spring, the Riad Sapphire boutique hotel in Marrakech is now open…
This luxurious new hotel boasts oodles of eco chic along with its gleaming and tasteful decor – and at Goodtrippers we can’t wait to be sipping a fresh mint tea from its stunning roof terrace! Described as a modern twist on colonial chic, Riad Sapphire combines classic Moroccan architecture with plenty of space and light. But it’s the hotel’s responsible tourism ethos that it really impresses.
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The owners, Barbara and Beryl (who have already overseen the successful opening of two other hotels in Marrakech under the Chic Riads brand), are proud to have employed only local, highly-skilled artisans in the design and build of Riad Sapphire – a process that barely used any electricity due to materials being delivered to the site via donkey, and craftspeople creating woven fabrics, plasterwork and woodwork by hand (take a look at this video of some of the extremely skilled Morrocan woodturners). Continuing its commitment to alternative energy use, solar panels are now in place to heat the riad’s water, the spa and hammam, and the larger than average swimming pool.
Accommodation
Riad Sapphire has eight suites, one with a spectacular domed ceiling, and another with a modern pyramid roof. En-suite bathrooms are stocked with organic toiletries sourced from responsibly-run companies in the local area.
Food
Local people are employed in the kitchens to create some delicious delicacies for guests. It’s worth noting that your breakfast bread will have been baked at a local bake house that is heated by the hammam, that in turn is powered by wood shavings (from local carpenters) brought to the bakery by donkey. Now that’s low carbon – if not quite low carb!
Facilities
Relax in the spa, traditional hammam or swimming pool. Alternatively, kick back in the one of two dazzling marble courtyards or take in the city sights from the roof terrace.
Special offer: Riad Sapphire is offering a fantastic 50% discount on bookings from now until 31 August 2014 (min. 3 nights; does not apply to extra beds), so no excuse not to treat yourself! Visit www.riadsapphire.com for booking and more information.
‘Good’ credentials:
- Solar panels heat the riad’s water, spa, hammam and swimming pool
- Minimal electricity used in hotel’s construction
- Local people employed
- Organic toiletries in bathrooms
- Other responsible companies and tourist attractions recommended to guests, including the local organic perfumery