BOUTIQUE HOTELS of AFRICA: morocco

A riad is a traditional Moroccon house based round an internal courtyard, many of them have now been converted into beautiful luxury boutique hotels.

RIAD NOGA

One of the first riads to open in Marrakech. (25 years ago there were less than 25 now thereare more than 500!) Riad Nog is a romantic charm.. If you're looking for a traditional riad, they don't come much better; the door, at the end of an alleyway, opens into a courtyard with olive and citrus trees (and a raucous parrot). A second courtyard has a small pool; above it are two roof terraces with comfortable loungers and terracotta pots dripping scarlet bougainvillaea.

LA SULTANA

Opulent chic and top end, La Sultana has a great location in the heart of the kasbah. It has its own spa and a pavilion on the roof terrace where treatments can be taken, complete with loungers to relax on afterwards. Its not cheap but its worth it.

DAR DONAB

Riad Dar Donab is luxurious and opulent. A converted small palace, Dar Donab is mind-bogglingly ornate. The dining room drips golden chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling russet and gold drapes, while the small bar and alcoves, dominated by traditional carved woodwork, mosaic floors and ochre-coloured walls, are giddily glamorous. There is a good-sized pool and the rooms come with satin-draped beds and intricately carved plasterwork.