If you're planning a stay in Essaouira, have you thought about your choice of accommodation? The neighborhood, setting, and lifestyle do you dream of during your stay? Each neighborhood offers a different environment. Here is some practical information to help you choose the right accommodation in Essaouira based on your desires and expectations.
The Medina, the charm of an authentic Riad
When thinking of Morocco, one imagines staying in a traditional Riad, with walls covered in colorful tiles, sipping mint tea in the heart of its central courtyard, all amidst the scent of orange blossoms. Welcome to the Medina, in the heart of Essaouira's local life. The old town is filled with magnificent Riads, hidden behind grand doors, shielded from external view. When walking through the narrow streets, one can hardly imagine what lies behind these austere façades, as everything happens inside the Riads. Typically, townhouses consist of a central courtyard around which the different rooms are distributed. With 2 or 3 levels, the houses usually culminate in a rooftop terrace. The furniture and decoration are traditional, exuding authentic charm.
Types of Accommodation in the Medina
Riads, Dars (meaning houses), hotels, hostels, and individual apartments. Riads can be managed like a hotel or guesthouse, or rented entirely, by room, or by apartment per floor.
Some notable addresses
Riad Lalla Zina, known for its traditional and colorful decorations; Riad Salut Maroc, with its vibrant and meticulously designed interiors; Riad Salmiya Dune, featuring a green courtyard and tranquility.
What we love about the neighborhood: the proximity to restaurants, shops, and the lively atmosphere of the Medina.
Disadvantages
some streets can be noisy, and the buildings are old and may have poor insulation or humidity issues (due to the nearby ocean), but this is part of Medina's charm!
The Bay of Essaouira, closest to the sea
To fully enjoy the sea during your stay in Essaouira, choose accommodation in the bay, preferably with a direct view of the ocean. This neighborhood is favored by kitesurfers, surfers, and beach enthusiasts who prioritize easy access to the sea. The ambiance here is more cosmopolitan, with the bay lined with large hotels and upscale residences. For sunbathers, some beachfront hotels offer private beaches with sun loungers.
Types of accommodation by the sea: mainly upscale hotels and rental apartments.
Some notable addresses
Hotel Miramar, with spacious and comfortable rooms facing the sea; Hotel Riad Zahra, offering a pleasant atmosphere and a restaurant; Villa Quieta, featuring a garden and a pool; Residence Louzani, an apartment hotel concept.
What we love about the neighborhood
Starting the day with a walk on the beach, enjoying the sea breeze, and the tranquility in the evenings.
Disadvantages:
Fewer restaurants and entertainment options in this neighborhood, but the Medina is just a few minutes away by foot, along the beach.
Villas and Pools, staying outside Essaouira
If you want your stay to be synonymous with relaxation, rest, and rejuvenation, you can find accommodation in the surrounding countryside of Essaouira. By moving away from the Atlantic coast and heading inland even just 10 kilometers, you'll experience warmer temperatures, a less humid and windy climate, and lush vegetation, resembling true oases. You can rent a villa in Essaouira, often accompanied by a pool and a spacious green garden.
Types of accommodation in the surroundings of Essaouira
private villas or hotel estates. Villas can be operated as guesthouses, rented by the room.
For larger groups, families, or friends, you can also rent an entire villa.
Some notable addresses
Look around the village of Ghazoua, located between Essaouira and the airport. Many villas have been established along the 8-kilometer stretch of the P2201 road. Among them is the Hotel Domaine de l'Arganeraie, known for having the largest heated pool in the region. Along the N1 highway, you'll find Jardin des Douards, offering a luxurious and exotic setting. Explore the various residences along the R207 road, where the breathtaking view over the horizon above the canopy will leave you speechless.
What we love about the surroundings of Essaouira
the tranquility of the countryside, lush gardens, terraces, and pools, the milder climate compared to the coast, and the option to rent an entire villa for larger groups.
Disadvantages
You'll be farther away from the city of Essaouira, so you'll need to rely on shuttle services provided by your host, take a taxi, or rent a car for more independence.
SEARCHING ON THE INTERNET: HOW TO FIND ACCOMMODATION IN ESSAOUIRA?
To find your dream accommodation, search on platforms like Airbnb, Booking, and Tripadvisor, or even use Google Maps to locate accommodations by neighborhood, using keywords such as "villa," "hotel," "riad," or "apartment." You can also explore real estate rental management websites, such as 4 Venti Travel or Immobilière d'Essaouira, which offer villa, Riad, and apartment rentals in Essaouira.
Good to Know
Most accommodations, whether Riads, hotels, or guesthouses, include a hearty Moroccan breakfast. It typically includes specialties such as mint tea, fresh fruit juice, soup, Moroccan bread or pancakes (milles trous, batbout, msemen), eggs, olive oil, argan oil, honey, amlou, and olives. It's a delightful culinary experience! If you rent an entire property, you can request the services of a chef who will prepare meals for your group.