Riad Zarka is a beautiful place to stay that is very well situated. However, the value of this riad is lowered by incompetency of the staff employees with horrible attitude and bad service. Our room was very dusty. As we stayed in other Riad in Marrakech during our stay and thus we can compare, we confirm that this is not due to the city itself but due to insufficient cleaning. We found employees of the riad very difficult to deal with, as most of the responds to our demands started with NO and we had to have a long discussion to achieve at least some compromise. We will list some examples to give a better picture of the service we got at the riad during our stay. 1. We were going for a whole day trip leaving at 7am. We were refused to get breakfast or some replacement before 8am. At last we agreed that we can take a yogurt form the fridge. 2. We got 30 ml of shower gel for 5 nights / 2 people. We were asking to refill it for 3 days! First they told us that their boss told them not to refill it, then when I said that will write to the boss, the story changed. Supposedly, they ran out of the soap, they ordered it but had not arrived yet. But we saw them refilling the bottles for other rooms in which they expected new customers, so it was a non-sense. 3. Breakfast on the terrace was out of question because they needed to be present to serve breakfast to other customers when they wake up, like if bringing breakfast upstairs would take so much time. 4. I used two wallets during the trip to split the money. I forgot one of them in a bag in the room one day and when I got back to the room, the bag was open and the wallet missing. I did not report it, as I had no prove and there was not much money in it (and I did not feel like dealing with staff anymore). But the wallet had a sentimental value for me and cannot be replaced. I do have to mention one positive service that we got. It was breakfast that was very nice, consisting of fresh orange juice and local crepes, bread, jams, and coffee or mint tea. So my conclusion for this raid would be that unless the owner does not get her employee to treat the customers better (or change the staff) the stay in this riad is unpleasant and annoying.

I stayed in Marrakech for three days with a friend, and Riad Zarka made the stay wonderful. The service is fantastic - the staff are genuinely friendly, the breakfasts are amazing! And very plentiful! We felt right at home at once, and leaving was a genuine wrench. Am already planning to come back in June with my mum and sister. If you're staying in Marrakech, I urge you to stay here. It's in a brilliant location right in the souk, so you really feel that you're in amongst all the action.

My friend and I ( two women in their 20s) arrived at Marrakech airport to be greeted by the Riad's representative, Aziz , and the transfer driver. My french was minimal and my friend knew a bit more than me however Aziz could understand what we were saying. We drove to the Jemaa El Fna, which is as far as you can go by car, and then Aziz walked us through the Souks to the Riad. I agree with the other reviews that the transfer is a must, otherwise it could take you a while to find on your own. On entering the Riad we were greeted by the staff and made to feel very welcome. The courtyard has a fountain, plants and some seating areas. On one table there are leaftets, maps and excursion details. I would suggest that travellers arrange their excursions through the Riad as opposed to any external companies. My friend and I went to the Cascades D'Ouzoud using the Riad's driver service which I would highly recommend. The vehicle was comfortable and the driver was friendly.

We were staying in the Blue Room, which consisted of two single beds, a little bedside table, a chair, another table and two storage spaces. The toilet and shower room are a beautiful terracota and were very clean. The room overlooks the courtyard which is lit by candlelight at night. In the morning, breakfast is served around 8.30am. We were served yogurt, fresh bread, brioche, pancakes, jam, marmalade and mint tea. This was plenty for a breakfast and we were always greeted with big smiles - a great start to the day! The Riad is extremely close to the Souks and the Jemaa El Fna, however the atmosphere inside the Riad is very peaceful in comparision to the busy streets and markets.

The Riad has a lovely, homely feel and we were made to feel welcome and secure for the entire stay. I highly recommend this Riad and will definately be returning in the future.

Riad Zarka is a classy, well maintained Riad. We booked a room with a/c which was a must. It was between 40 - 45 degrees when we stayed.... phew it was hot... The Riad was awesome and we loved it. The only problem was that there was no radio in the room. Before we left we confirmed our booking and transfer and everything was fine. Aziz from the hotel greeted us with a big smile and a van, he then escorted us through the markets to our hotel. We would of got totally lost without booking this transfer. The street lighting around the hotel was adeque at night time. There are always plenty of locals so no need to worry about safety too much (as long as your with a male). There is a cute little boy that lives just outside the hotel that will give you a high five at the drop of a hat. We loved Marrakech, but we felt that three nights was enough. We would of loved to travel to the mountains and maybe the coast.

We ate at the souks in the main square at night time. It's a real experience, and complete chaos, but fun none the less. There are also local deserts and spicy mint teas you can drink for next to nothing. We managed to find a place near the main square that sells beer! it took a while, but i managed to find booze pretty quickly. The Riad also sells beer and wine for a reasonable price. Just shout for Aziz and he will get you a beer from the fridge. The beer could of been a little colder, but beggars cant be choosers!.

If you are considering staying at this Riad - I wouldnt hesitate to stay with them again