Quite a few of Fes’s hotels and riads are located within the medina, but though such a location benefits from unforgettable charms, it also has challenges.
When visiting the Riad Fès we immediately realized just how immersed it is within the medieval walled city: because of the limited access, our suitcases had to be brought in on the tireless shoulders of the Riad Fès staff (do check out our review). Later, when exploring the area, we’d often get lost among unmarked streets of the medina.
These problems are not anything to be concerned about at the Hotel Sahrai Fez. In many ways, this hotel is the opposite of a medina riad.
There’s a satisfyingly practical concept behind the Hotel Sahrai Fez. The assumption is that you’re in Fes for the cultural antiquity, of course—but that when the sightseeing’s over, you might prefer to retreat to a modern boutique with ample space and modern comforts and tech-friendly amenities.
The Sahrai is strategically positioned so you can appreciate the view of the riad from afar, preferably while sipping mint tea at the rooftop bar at sunset. The hotel has fifty rooms and suite, larger than a riad, but relatively small for a luxury hotel.
The look is clean and modern, with minimalist white, pale brick, and floor-to-ceiling windows, and a few pieces to remind you where you are—a hand-painted vase, a glowing lantern, a decorative wall partition.
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The smart in-room amenities include the latest tech, including complimentary wi-fi, and airy bathrooms with luxury tubs. Junior suites feature black marble bathrooms and sweeping views of the medina. And the top-of-the-line Sahrai Suite has its own terrace and outdoor entertaining space.
Notable spaces at Hotel Sahrai include two restaurants, one Moroccan and the other international, plus tennis courts, a fitness center, an infinity pool, and, wisely, a separate pool for children. The obvious highlights, however, are the rooftop bar and terrace—where you might be tempted to camp out all evening— and the opulent Givenchy Spa.
With its stone surfaces, mashrabiya latticework and outdoor treatment space, the elegant spa is very much grounded in the place, but the service and treatment style meets the brand’s high standards.
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The charm of the old world and the comfort of the new is the core idea behind the hotel — but the Sahrai captures the spirit of location without ever appearing dated. Its style is eminently modern, in a sophisticated blend of Moroccan traditions and contemporary luxuries.
Categories: Boutique hotels, Business hotels, City hotels, Local flavor, Luxury hotels, Modern design, Quiet location, Shopping, Sightseeing, Spa,
Number of rooms & suites: 50
Rate per night: From $180 USD
*The rate is only approximate and is based on our own independent research, at the time of writing. We cannot guarantee the rate in any way.
Check room rates and bookAuthor: Travel+Style. Last updated: 31/08/2024