I was so turned off by our poor experience at Dar Elma, that I had to write a review in order to encourage others to stay elsewhere. The rude attitude of the manager here bordered on offensive and turned what should have been a lovely stay, into one that we couldn't wait to end. Although the rest of the staff was warm and accommodating, the manager set the tone for the entire stay. She acted as if it was a terrible inconvenience to have us there.

The rooms here are very small and plain for the rate; however the patio and rooftop terrace are very nice. There are so many beautiful, authentic Riads in Marrakesh that offer far more welcoming and sincere service, as well as much better value for your money.

Arrived tired after a long drive and were welcomed warmly. The tranquility of this Riad is wonderful and yet it's only a few minutes walk from the hubbub of the markets.

Our rooms were comfortable, clean and well-equipped and we found the staff extraordinarily helpful and hospitable - courteous, friendly and amiable all at once.

We particularly liked the cool quietness of the pool area inside Dar Elma and after a hard day walking round the souks and avoiding the motorbikes that whizz in and out of all the alleyways, to sit down at a table and have a drink was blissfully soothing.

Breakfast was something else - climbing up the elegant stairs to the roof terrace to bask in the early morning sun and enjoy a coffee made an excellent start to the day.

What didn't we like? Well, it was quite hard to find really and some clearer instructions - perhaps even a sketch map - would help. But I'm not sure whether Dar Elma or our travel agent should have supplied that. As it was, a number of small lads led us all the way to the door and expected an enormous "fee" for doing so. However, we'd been in Morocco for a week by then and knew what the going rate was: always a lot less than you get asked for!

Go to Dar Elma and you'll feel fresh and alert after a good night's sleep, ready to tackle the traders and enjoy Jama' El Fna.

We stayed in this Riad over a long weekend and it was definitely a very good choice! The rooms are lovely and the other areas of the riad (dining area, tv room and rooftop) are just as nice! It is lovely and peaceful and the staff are very hospitable and helpful! There is a hammam in this riad, unfortunately we didnt get the chance to try it!

Flying in from London was arduous and so our first morning was spent on in the calm of Dar Elma's roof-top terasse. Entering the Dar Elma was such a relief after a long day starting at 4am. After a day of serenely sitting in the sun and drinking tea on the terasse, we chose to make use of the hammam and a massage. This was a key selling point of the riad and we were very glad to experience it in such luxurious conditions. In terms of value-for money, Dar Elma is really hands down! The internal courtyard it is beautifully redone, the rooms are spacious and the hosts are both kind and considerate. If you book a dinner there, it is both high quality and has a real home-made feel. It is centrally placed, down a warren of picturesque alleys in a family neighoubrhood. All of the local residents are very friendly and welcoming. All of the key sites are within a 15-20 minute walk. Although in reality, hanging out and relaxing on the terasse is a must after more than 15 minutes in the hustle-and-bustle of Marrakech. So if you're interested in staying at a great riad with a caring and attentive staff, good food and a in a superly done location try Dar Elma!