2 perfect nights at Riad Anata

Last updated on February 3rd, 2026.

It's not easy knowing where to stay in Fes.

The Moroccan city has an abundance of hotels and riads, but we wanted one in a quieter part of the Old Medina in Fes.

So when I discovered Riad Anata, the boutique hotel ticked off all the characteristics.

Swing seat at Riad Anata
The swing seat on the rooftop at Riad Anata

Away from the crowds on the quieter side of the Old Medina, the riad sits in good company alongside other luxury riads.

During a trip to Morocco in October we were lucky enough to experience its warm hospitality.

A background

Riad Anata is the baby of Belgian owner, Valerie Janczewski.

Based between London and Madrid, the Andalusian-inspired hotel is a reflection of Valerie’s passion for travel and culture.

One of the best riads in Fes, here are 5 good reasons why you should stay at Riad Anata.

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5 good reasons to stay at Riad Anata


A great location in Fes

Staying at Riad Anata means you’re in close proximity of some of the best sights in Fes. Batha Palace and museum is a very short walk from the hotel, as is the souk area.

First impressions

As with many riads in Morocco, the main door can be misleading.

Simple and somewhat inconspicuous, you’d be forgiven for questioning whether you’ve come to the right place.

But the second you step inside, you know you're in the right place.

High ceilings and plenty of natural light, the salon area is exquisite. As with most boutique hotels, there are only a few rooms available at Riad Anata.

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A welcome without words

The member of staff that welcomed us was friendly, smiley, but she only spoke French.

This, however, didn’t prove to be a problem. Managing to communicate in the language of smiles — and gestures — she helped us settle in.

She also advised us on somewhere safe to park our car. On arrival, we'd passed several young men, who kept trying to get us to follow them for parking.

If you encounter the same situation, politely decline and walk away. From the riad, there's a secure car park just 100m away.


Map of Morocco


Traditional, yet stylish bedrooms

Warm and inviting, you immediately know you're in for a comfortable stay when you set eyes on the bedroom.

With a traditional-style room key, it’s almost like stepping into someone’s home than a hotel.

While I’m no interior designer, I can appreciate good décor when I see it. The owner, Valerie, has made sure each bedroom is inviting and individual, with its own special touches.

Our room consisted of rich orange, brown and cream tones.

Riad Anata boutique hotel - bedroom
Our colorful bedroom at Riad Anata

The best night's sleep

I've also to give major props to the bed.

It was the most comfortable night’s sleep we'd had during our trip around Morocco. If offered, I’d have happily taken it home with me.

Furnishings are elegant yet practical. There are 'anti-smell' plugs in the bathroom to ensure that no bad smells waft into your room from the Old Medina. 

Other personal touches include the branded toiletries on a stand complete with its own backlight.

See also  Morocco in October

Riad Anata terrace and patio

At the very top of the riad is the terrace. To sum it up in 6 words: the best chill spot in Fes.

They serve breakfast on the patio in the morning and the charming small bar is open in the evening. If you’d like to have dinner here, you need to request this in advance as everything’s made to order.

Matching the relaxed elegance of the interior, the terrace is the ideal lounging spot.

The area’s spacious, and the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of wine after the dizzying sights of Fes. Other notable characteristics on the patio include the wading pool, and a library — just in case you fancy chilling out with a book.


Breakfast with a view

During the day, the blazing sun brings to life the views across the Medina.

Breakfast is excellent and as personal as the service. Greedily, I finished nearly everything on the platter, and ordered eggs too, it was that good.

Riad Anata breakfast setting on terrace
Ready for breakfast

Breakfast items included homemade yogurt, fresh fruit and Moroccan pancakes. There was also a delicious honey cake, baguette and eggs (made to order).

For beverages, we had fresh orange juice and the obligatory coffee. In case you’re wondering why there are no photos, it's because I couldn't wait to get stuck in.

It was a moment where I was happy to put aside the blogging, and just enjoy being another hungry traveler.

Lisa standing on the rooftop at Riad Anata
During the day, the blazing sun brings to life the views across the Medina

Riad Anata cooking classes

If you’d like to impress your friends back home with authentic Moroccan dishes, you may want to sign up for a cooking class.

See also  Madada Mogador boutique hotel

Riad Anata teaches its guests how to cook Moroccan cuisine, as well as an introduction to the culture. On top of this, the class also includes a tour around the Medina to source the ingredients.

The verdict

Our stay at Riad Anata, though a short one, was the best decision we made in Fes.

From the friendly staff, to the comfortable accommodation, I’ll always recommend this as the top boutique hotel in the Old Medina.

Would you like to stay at Riad Anata? Drop me a comment below and let me know your thoughts.

Disclaimer: Even though I was invited by Riad Anata, all views are my own and based on my own experience. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

108 Comments

  1. A cooking class definitely sounds interesting, I always look for such things while travelling. Shopping for fresh ingredients is a plus point for any cooking class. The place looks awesome with all its natural lighting and aesthetic sense.

  2. A very nice hotel. I like the architecture and atmosphere of this place. I would like to go to Morocco one day, I have a nice flight connection from Katowice, Poland, but unfortunately only in winter.

    1. Aw, well I hope you visit one day. It has a lot of charm, and buildings with a classic Moroccan edge.

  3. This is a fantastic review of this riad. I have never been to Fes but if I were to go, I'd want to go somewhere luxurious like this! I wouldn't say I'm normally a luxury traveller (far from it!) But a nice clean place to stay is a must for me.

    1. That's my number one quality I look for! Trust me, it's not as expensive you think. It's a wonderful riad in Fes.

  4. I actually have never heard of Fes so I will need to check out your other blog. But this hotel is exquisite. I agree with you that decor is excellent! And I love places that gets sunlight with high ceilings! Thanks for sharing the details of this hotel!

    1. You're welcome! It's a great riad for staying in Fes, and not as expensive as some people think 🙂

  5. We have read a lot on Morocco lately and this looks amazing. We are staying in boutique hotels more and more instead of the chain hotels. We feel they offer more. This looks very inviting and I like that it feels more like a home than a hotel. The rooftop looks magical and I love that they have a cooking class.

    1. That's great to read! I much prefer boutiques as the service is more personal, and the rooms individual style too.

  6. I like the personal touch the owner put around the hotel. I also like the choice of colors for the bedroom. The hotel looks incredible!

  7. That bed looks incredibly comfortable and the room so cosy, infact the whole Riad looks lush, I really do need to go back to Morocco and travel the rest of the country, I've heard mixed things about Fez but if it's anything like Marrakech I'm gonna love it. You know I have to admit I loved the pancakes you get served for breakfast, now I've read this I've got the taste for them again haha.

    1. Fes is really worth seeing, but maybe it's not for everyone. We had a car, so it was a case of why not! And those pancakes were really good!

  8. I love that feel-- like you're in someone's home instead of a hotel. That's why I like staying at Airbnbs but with that, the car park and close proximity to where you want to be, I'd definitely stay here!

  9. This looks gorgeous! Accommodations can really make or break a trip. Morocco is high up on my list, but I keep getting distracted by house sitting offers. I don't imagine I'll be house sitting in Morocco, so I'll have to remember this when I finally make it!

  10. The hotel feels very homey and warm. Not like other super-class hotels that emanate of money and business more than warmth. We would definitely want to stay here. 🙂

  11. I’ve never stayed at a boutique hotel but if I am going to, I’d choose this one! This hotel and Morocco are amazing! Thanks for sharing it!

  12. The riads in Morocco are so beautiful! I've been dying to visit that place and stay at one of the beautiful riads I saw on Instagram. The attention to detail is just amazing and I like that it looks so spacious and clean!

    1. Trust me, don't stay in a hotel if you visit Morocco, a riad's the only way to go! You won't be disappointed 😀

  13. I miss so much Morocco. Fes is the largest medina in the world and I spent quite a fair amount of time there. At the end of my stay in Morocco, I dedicated 3 days only in fes and I stayed in a similar riad to Riad Anata. The finishing is fabulous, I liked a lot the tadelakt that they use on the walls. The decorations are fantastic, the cactus silk curtains give you a magical feel when you touch them. Strongly recommend staying in a riad when you go to Morocco. It's a completely different world and it really worth it.

    1. I couldn't agree more Iuliana! Riad Anata is truly authentic, and in a peaceful part of Fes. A winning combination.

  14. This hotel looks absolutely lovely! Something about the decor is relaxing and like a home, as you said. I would certainly feel pampered in a place like that!

  15. Wow, I like unique places likw this one. I've been in Turkey few times. Each time when I go there, I'm looking places like the hotel. Thank you for this article

  16. Hi Lisa, beautiful article as always 🙂 I've never had the opportunity to visit Fez but I've already been in Morocco. I hope to be a guest in this amazing riad you reviewed heavenly 🙂

    1. I hope so too! It's an incredible riad and really one boutique hotel worth staying in, in Fes 😀

  17. What a gorgeous boutique! would love to stay in a place like this – it looks so peaceful. I always enjoy finding places like this, the lighting around the hotel is gorgeous

  18. I love boutique hotels because I feel as though the decoration is always above and beyond regular chain hotels!! I love the eclectic design and the bed looks super comfy! Would totally stay here

  19. This looks like such an awesome spot! I think I would lay in that hammock all day everyday. The quote about it being the best spot to chill in Fez definitely seems true based on what you've shared 🙂

  20. This hotel has such a chic decor! All the colors and little details seem to be well thought out! Cooking classes sound very interesting too!

  21. This hotel looks so nice and beautiful! The location of this place is great since you can reach important places easily. Also, I love the yellow color vibe of this place. It seems really enjoyable to stay here.

  22. The Riad Anata looks stunning, I would definitely stay here! They have considered every tiny detail. I really like the interior design, it's modern but very in keeping with what you'd expect from a hotel in the area, they've managed the balance beautifully!

  23. Riad Anata looks like a perfect place for a relaxed holiday. I loved the architectural style of the hotel. The bed looks super cozy with lamp shades. I also like the lounge area 🙂

  24. Wow! Looks like an amazing stay for a calm laid-back holiday! The hotel is very beautiful with a cultural touch. The architecture, the high ceilings, the natural light and the at-home feel- everything is so amazing. I love the bedroom with all those warm soothing colours and impressive decor. Thanks for sharing this splendid experience. 🙂

    1. You're so welcome! Riad Anata is a great choice for Fes, and I truly recommend it for a boutique stay in Fes!

  25. I love the look and theme of this hotel and the way you have written about it and your photos really do, do it justice. As a bit of a foodie I love the fact that they offer cooking lessons as well.

    1. They do, and the classes are intimate and a lot of fun too! Thanks for dropping by, I really appreciate your comments!

  26. The salon space is gorgeous. I so want to book an appointment at their spa. This looks like the best place ever. Right from the activities to the colourful interiors and beautiful patio, this hotel seems to have it all. Cheers!!

  27. Riad Anata Boutique hotel sounds like a recommendable place to stay on a visit to Morocco. The interiors and the colors look very elegant. The terrace is the best part and is indeed the chilling spot. The cooking class sounds fun too and we would definitely give it a try.

    1. That's fantastic to read! The food is incredible there, and if you take a class, you'll learn from one of the best cooks in Fes!

  28. I actually constantly find cheap tickets from where I live in Germany to Fes but never had a good recommendation of where to stay! I will definitely look at Riad Anata and book next time 😛

    1. That's great to read Megan! It's not far at all from Germany to Fes, and now you have a good place to stay!

  29. Hey girl - looks like you had a relaxing time here! From your first picture, this looked like a place I'd be into for sure. I can just imagine kicking back in that hammock and enjoying the homemade yogurt and fruit. Sounds like a dream and like it would be a complete respite from the craziness of Fes!

    1. You got it totally right Rachelle! Riad Anata is so cosy yet stylish at the same time. It's the kind of place where you can chill out in the hammock, and stay there all day!

  30. Beautiful! I'm a sucker for a gorgeous riad--our favorite one in Morocco was also in Fes. That courtyard looks beautiful. Love the tiles!!

  31. I visited Fes a few years ago but didn't stay in a Riad. The Riad experience looks much better than a hotel. I love all the interior design and it seems they have thought of everything to make a luxury living experience inside the Medina. Breakfast must have been delicious!

    1. Breakfast was super delicious, and served on the terrace too! Honestly, the riads are way better, and not as expensive as people may think. Also, they keep in line with the Moroccan culture, which is important for me too 🙂

  32. Hi Lisa - another beautiful hotel! Wow. jealous that you find all these amazing hidden accommodations gems around the world 🙂 Beautiful hotel indeed - nothing quite like staying at a hotel than feels like home at the same time. The cooking class sounds so much fun - I would definitely sign up. great read - Ella

    1. Aw thank you Ella, that's so sweet of you to write! The hotel's very beautiful, and the best thing is, it's so affordable too. It really makes your experience in Fes that more special!

  33. I'm a return reader - for your fair reviews but mostly your ever sumptuous photos! You have not disappointed once again and I love that this is a review for a flashpacker level of budget - my favourite travel style! The food sounds delicious and I like how you note that the staff are very warm and welcoming too as that can make such a difference to a stay to make it way better than impersonal or overly policy driven five star stays could ever match!

    1. Aw thank you Erin, that's so inspiring for me to read 😀 You really will love Riad Anata if you're a fellow flashpacker. Its elegant in style, is so personal in character and service, and the breakfast on the terrace is just delicious!

  34. I think I'd like Riad Anata boutique hotel too. I like that everything about it, the decor, customer service, meals, and how it makes one feel at home. Taking up a cooking class would not be a bad idea. I like the Riad Anata boutique hotel.

  35. This just looks adorable! I love all the colors and design. Seems like a lot of love and thought were put into the design!

  36. The Riad Anta Boutique Hotels looks delightful and such a cozy place to stay in Fez. The rooms look so well designed and really doesn't have the feeling of a hotel, but rather a home. The intricacy in the design of the hotel is absolutely beautiful! I love that they offer cooking classes too, because I totally would love to learn how to cook Moroccan food.

    1. Moroccan food is delicious, and they have a great cook who comes in and shows all the traditional northern Moroccan techniques!

  37. Riad Anta Boutique hotel looks very comfortable stay with all traditional decor. I loved the design of grills fixed in window and also rugs in bedroom. Toiletries with spot light is really something unique. Will keep this in mind if I go to Morocco.

  38. What a beautiful and unique hotel to stay in, that courtyard is calling my name! Love all the little details, from the rugs to the toiletries. Definitely keeping the Riad Anata in mind for when I travel to Fes!

  39. What an inviting hotel- the warm colors and detailed textures would have me settling in immediately! Plus, that breakfast sounds absolutely delicious. Love how you were able to navigate language barriers with the staff- it's amazing how much a smile can do to bring people together!

  40. Wow! The hotel looks absolutely luxurious! I'd totally love to get pampered here.. I'm a sucker for all things metallic & golden and this is totally my kinda place. Interesting to know that a foreigner from Belgium created this awesomely Moroccan hotel!

    1. Yes, it definitely has a international flair here! Riad Anata is beautiful, and really is worth visiting in Fes!

  41. Well if I was a flash-packer this would definitely be somewhere I would like to stay, That hammock in your top picture would be my home haha, I can see why you say A warm and fuzzy familiarity tickles you the second you lay eyes upon the bedroom - It looks so comfy 😀 - I think he friends I'm going to meet in Marrakesh are thinking about staying in a Riad, I will pass this post onto them to check this out, my friends Girlfriend will love it 😀

    1. Thank you! It's a great choice for Fes, especially when the city is so chaotic! I guess you can sleep in the hammock, it's warm enough!

  42. Such an interesting place to stay. I love the way they have eye for details and their décor is so soothing. The best part is that it is close to all the major attractions of Fes. What’s not to love?

  43. This looks stunning!! If I ever get to Fez (really really want to go!) I will definitely consider this hotel

  44. What a fabulous review. You have managed to beautifully capture the Riad Anata hotel and I now want to be there. It looks very Zen and I can almost feel myself sinking into that gorgeous bedroom. I'd also love to take a Moroccan cooking class.

    1. Thanks Sarah! I had the best time staying at Riad Anata, and I can honestly say it made my stay in Fes a whole lot calmer!

  45. I love the uniqueness of this boutique hotel. Your bedroom is so cute and what a wonderful patio to have breakfast on.

  46. Lisa, you have a knack for finding the loveliest places! I love this boutique hotel and you're right, it does look more like someone's cosy home than a hotel. I particularly love the salon area, the interior and the setting is amazing.

    1. Aww thank you, I try haha. It's a wonderful riad, and the staff really make you feel so at home. A top recommendation!

  47. I like to spoil myself staying in boutique hotels in my holidays. Not always, but I keep a balance of staying in budget plus boutique hotels. I love the feeling. I would love to be here with my travel partner. Morocco is still untouched by me, I will keep this hotel in mind.

  48. I've never stayed at a boutique hotel but if I am going to, I'd choose this one! I fell in love with the high-ceilings! Hahaha I feel you with the desire to bring home the bed. I've thought numerous times to bring home hotel pillows and stashing it in my luggage lol

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