The story of our riad in Fes, a rebirth between tradition and passion
Welcome to Riad Hanael, a palace full of history and architectural wealth. Easily and directly accessible, it is located in the heart of the Medina of Fez between the Andalusian bank, the Karaouine mosque district, and Seffarine square. Our story is above all that of a Franco-Moroccan Fassi family, attached and linked by its own family history to this millennial city whose incredible cultural heritage surprises us every day. My childhood was filled with my parents’ stories about the Medina, and they passed on to me the unconditional love they had for our hometown. They also instilled in me the pride of being custodians of age-old traditions and heirs to a unique craftsmanship in its diversity. More than 25 years ago, with my husband Éric, we decided to give new life to this old ruined palace. Captivated by its timeless charm, discreet beauty, and above all, its authentic soul, we became its owners. Transforming this architectural treasure into a guest house and sharing this Fassi heritage with travelers from around the world has become, beyond the project, a true mission for us.
A rebirth between tradition and passion
Welcome to Riad Hanael, a palace full of history and architectural wealth. Easily and directly accessible, it is located in the heart of the Medina of Fez between the Andalusian bank, the Karaouine mosque district, and Seffarine square. Our story is above all that of a Franco-Moroccan Fassi family, attached and linked by its own family history to this millennial city whose incredible cultural heritage surprises us every day. My childhood was filled with my parents' stories about the Medina, and they passed on to me the unconditional love they had for our hometown. They also instilled in me the pride of being custodians of age-old traditions and heirs to a unique craftsmanship in its diversity. More than 25 years ago, with my husband Éric, we decided to give new life to this old ruined palace.
Captivated by its timeless charm, discreet beauty, and above all, its authentic soul, we became its owners. Transforming this architectural treasure into a guest house and sharing this Fassi heritage with travelers from around the world has become, beyond the project, a true mission for us.
A restoration respecting the Riad's architecture
The restoration work was a true adventure, carried out with a focus on the quality of the execution. We integrated modern infrastructures to offer the best comfort to our guests. Our technical knowledge and artistic sensitivity allowed us to naturally imprint our personal touch. We carefully followed each step of the work, prioritizing local materials and traditional Fassi craftsmanship: carved wood, zellige tiles, and intricate plasters. Nothing was left to chance in order to enhance the authenticity of the riad. Our aesthetic choices have always been in line with an approach combining simplicity and elegance. The goal was not to overload the decoration, but to create a harmonious and soothing atmosphere.
Sharing a family spirit and professional service during your stay in Fez
We have strived to infuse this place with a warm spirit where sharing, conviviality, and authenticity are the rule. Our riad is now a haven of peace, a retreat imbued with serenity and refinement, where past and present meet to offer each of our guests a unique experience. You will experience the magic of this palace through the tranquility of its Andalusian garden, its exceptional spa, and its suites and rooms with unparalleled elegance.
A restoration respecting the Riad's architecture
The restoration work was a true adventure, carried out with a focus on the quality of the execution. We integrated modern infrastructures to offer the best comfort to our guests. Our technical knowledge and artistic sensitivity allowed us to naturally imprint our personal touch. We carefully followed each step of the work, prioritizing local materials and traditional Fassi craftsmanship: carved wood, zellige tiles, and intricate plasters. Nothing was left to chance in order to enhance the authenticity of the riad. Our aesthetic choices have always been in line with an approach combining simplicity and elegance. The goal was not to overload the decoration, but to create a harmonious and soothing atmosphere.
Sharing a family spirit and professional service during your stay in Fez
We have strived to infuse this place with a warm spirit where sharing, conviviality, and authenticity are the rule. Our riad is now a haven of peace, a retreat imbued with serenity and refinement, where past and present meet to offer each of our guests a unique experience. You will experience the magic of this palace through the tranquility of its Andalusian garden, its exceptional spa, and its suites and rooms with unparalleled elegance.
Offering you the best of Moroccan culture in the context of sustainable tourism
Sharing our philosophy of hospitality
Moroccans have a deep sense of hospitality. This value, passed down by our parents, is deeply rooted in our culture. Our life journey, cultural diversity, and travels around the world inspire us to always remain open to others. Hospitality is not just about offering a place to stay and a meal. No matter how beautiful and comfortable a place is, without a smile, without joy, and without sharing, true hospitality does not exist. For us, welcoming guests is an art of living, a philosophy of sharing. Together with our team, we are here to listen to you, and from the moment you arrive, a welcome tea is offered. We are by your side to advise you, guide you, and help you organize your activities, both within the riad and outside. This way, your stay at Riad Hanael will be an unforgettable experience.
Sharing our exceptional gastronomy
Moroccan cuisine, and especially that of Fez, is one of the jewels of our culture. The restaurant at Riad Hanael is the perfect place to discover the refined flavors of Fassi gastronomy in a romantic atmosphere. Our dishes, bread, pastries, and jams are all homemade and carefully prepared in our large kitchen. You can also take part in our cooking workshops and learn the secrets of our delicious tagines.
Sharing our beauty and wellness rituals
We invite you to discover our spa at Riad Hanael, featuring a magnificent wellness space dedicated to body care. The hammam ritual is a must—this ancient steam bath, combined with purifying and relaxing treatments, promises you a moment of absolute relaxation. You can also rejuvenate with beneficial massage sessions or simply unwind in the soothing warmth of our hot tub.
Sharing our philosophy of hospitality
Moroccans have a deep sense of hospitality. This value, passed down by our parents, is deeply rooted in our culture. Our life journey, cultural diversity, and travels around the world inspire us to always remain open to others. Hospitality is not just about offering a place to stay and a meal. No matter how beautiful and comfortable a place is, without a smile, without joy, and without sharing, true hospitality does not exist. For us, welcoming guests is an art of living, a philosophy of sharing. Together with our team, we are here to listen to you, and from the moment you arrive, a welcome tea is offered. We are by your side to advise you, guide you, and help you organize your activities, both within the riad and outside. This way, your stay at Riad Hanael will be an unforgettable experience.
Sharing our exceptional gastronomy
Moroccan cuisine, and especially that of Fez, is one of the jewels of our culture. The restaurant at Riad Hanael is the perfect place to discover the refined flavors of Fassi gastronomy in a romantic atmosphere. Our dishes, bread, pastries, and jams are all homemade and carefully prepared in our large kitchen. You can also take part in our cooking workshops and learn the secrets of our delicious tagines.
Sharing our beauty and wellness rituals
We invite you to discover our spa at Riad Hanael, featuring a magnificent wellness space dedicated to body care. The hammam ritual is a must—this ancient steam bath, combined with purifying and relaxing treatments, promises you a moment of absolute relaxation. You can also rejuvenate with beneficial massage sessions or simply unwind in the soothing warmth of our hot tub.
Considering our responsibilities and our surroundings
Sharing our social commitments
Concerned about our social impact, we have long been committed to supporting educational initiatives and promoting reading among disadvantaged children. Our support includes donating books to local associations. As active members of the "La Casba des Contes" Association, we actively contribute to the cultural life of the Medina by allowing this organization to revive the tradition of Moroccan storytelling within our riad.
Sharing our efforts to preserve the environment
We are committed to minimizing our ecological footprint. To reduce waste, we have chosen eco-friendly welcome products. In response to the chronic droughts affecting Morocco, we adopt a responsible water consumption approach: towels are only replaced upon request to help preserve this precious resource. To protect the health of our employees and limit the impact of chemical substances on the environment, we prioritize the use of natural products such as white vinegar, black soap, and baking soda for the maintenance of the riad.
Sharing our social commitments
Concerned about our social impact, we have long been committed to supporting educational initiatives and promoting reading among disadvantaged children. Our support includes donating books to local associations.
As active members of the “La Casba des Contes” Association, we actively contribute to the cultural life of the Medina by allowing this organization to revive the tradition of Moroccan storytelling within our riad.
Sharing our efforts to preserve the environment
We are committed to minimizing our ecological footprint. To reduce waste, we have chosen eco-friendly welcome products. In response to the chronic droughts affecting Morocco, we adopt a responsible water consumption approach: towels are only replaced upon request to help preserve this precious resource.
To protect the health of our employees and limit the impact of chemical substances on the environment, we prioritize the use of natural products such as white vinegar, black soap, and baking soda for the maintenance of the riad.