NEED TO KNOW

• Once home to Si Mohammed El Abbadi, a famous Moroccan astrologer and judge, this early 20th century riad stands on a hillside overlooking Fes' ancient medina
• Traditional, subtly-spiced and aromatic Moroccan food is served in a lovely, candle-lit salon
• The 'Maison Bleue Spa and Hammam' is located in the riad's sister property, Riad Maison Bleue & Spa
• A pretty swimming pool occupies a patio dotted with orange trees and enclosed by vivid blue and green mosaic pillars
• Other facilities include a relaxation room, a fitness room and the Blue Lounge
• We recommend the slow-cooked beef followed by flaky almond-stuffed pastilla
  

THE HOTEL
Riad Maison Bleue occupies a 19th Century house that once belonged to Moulay Bel Arbi El Alaoui, an eminent judge and professor of theology. A famous Moroccan philosopher, Aziz Lahbabi, was also born and raised in this house.

Today it serves as the second guesthouse restored and run by the El Abbadi family. The property consists of three interconnecting houses, which create an intimate and romantic atmosphere - exploring the routes connecting the houses feel like negotiating the laneways of the ancient Medina of Fez.

The hotel's attractive Andalucian-style architecture features rich cedar-wood and hand-carved plaster interiors, complemented by luxuriant fabrics and solid Moroccan furniture.

The library which belonged to the late head of the family is a great place to sit and thumb through the beautifully bound books and letters written in perfect calligraphy. Browsing here will give you a glimpse into the knowledge of the past.