Palais Sheherazade & Spa

Palais Sheherazade & Spa is a restored palace-riad in Derb Beniss, in the Fes el-Bali medina of Fes, Morocco's Fès-Meknès region. Derb Beniss lies in the central part of the medina, within walking distance of the Qarawiyyin Mosque and university, the Bou Inania Madrasa and the Seffarine square, where coppersmiths work, so many of the old city's principal sights are reachable on foot through the lanes. Cars cannot enter the medina, and luggage is generally carried by porter from the nearest gate. The building follows the grand Fassi house plan, with a central courtyard surrounded by galleries, carved plaster, painted cedar ceilings and zellige tile, reflecting the craftsmanship for which Fes is known. Room types are Double Rooms and Suites, and published rates run from about MAD 900 to 2,200 per night, placing it in the mid-range to upper mid-range of medina palace-riads. Amenities listed include a spa, a courtyard, a restaurant, a rooftop terrace and Wi-Fi. The restaurant serves Moroccan cuisine, and breakfast is typically taken in the courtyard or on the terrace. The rooftop terrace offers views over the medina's roofs and satellite dishes, minarets and hills, a good place for tea at dusk. The spa provides hammam and massage treatments, and is a good option for visitors looking to recover after walking the old city's lanes. Service is that of a small boutique property, with staff able to organise guides, craft workshops, cooking sessions and airport transfers, with Fes-Saïss airport roughly 15 km from the centre. The palace suits couples and small groups wanting a traditional experience with some luxury at a lower price than the top-tier palaces on the hills. Visitors should be prepared for stairs, narrow lanes and the sounds of the surrounding neighbourhood, including the call to prayer.