Where to Stay in Essaouira?
OUR FAVOURITE CHARMNG HOTELS (AND RIAD EUCALYPTUS)
Our journey to Essaouira happened gradually.
It started with a yoga retreat ten years ago, followed by three weeks of fitness training at Coaching Village four years ago — a kind of adult holiday camp where sport is at the heart of the experience. Surprising and deeply rejuvenating.
Between training sessions, we took the time to enjoy this remarkable destination, sensing that something meaningful was unfolding between Essaouira and us. We felt it intuitively ten years ago; four years ago, we knew it for certain.
The following year, resisting Essaouira’s pull was no longer an option. Because we appreciate beautiful places, and as we do wherever we travel, we tested some fine establishments before eventually renting a house. Here is our experience.
Villa de l’Ô, The Charm of Tradition
A historic riad in the Medina, transformed into a charming hotel. You either love it or you don’t. Some will find it ageing; others will say it has undeniable character. A matter of perspective.
We stayed in a UNIK suite: vast, with five-metre-high ceilings, a comfortable bed, and a magnificent brass claw-foot bathtub open to the bedroom, decorated with carefully sourced objects. There is a genuine soul in this 18th-century residence.
The riad is located right at the entrance of the Medina, just steps from the beach. Despite the liveliness of the Medina, nights here are perfectly quiet. Breakfast is simple but included, and the staff are warm, attentive and helpful.
Ideal for those who enjoy slightly unconventional experiences and the sometimes nostalgic charm of old places.
Le Jardin des Douars, A High-End Hotel in Lush Natural Surroundings
A true haven of peace, with the feel of a high-end resort. Two swimming pools, a padel court, and complete immersion in lush vegetation with ever-changing landscapes.
All rooms have been recently renovated, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of Moroccan artisans who master tadelakt and zellige — materials that invite touch. The décor never overshadows the craftsmanship; it simply highlights it—a beautiful expression of art.
As in all fine Moroccan establishments, the service is excellent, the breakfast is generous, the restaurant is of high quality, and the spa is well worth experiencing.
Perfect for families or friends, while couples seeking tranquillity will appreciate that one of the pools is adults-only. In addition to rooms and suites, the property also offers beautiful hotel villas with private pools.
A true institution near Essaouira, located 14 km from the medina.
Salut Maroc, Art at the Service of Hospitality
Our stay at the boutique hotel Salut Maroc holds a special memory: it was the night of the earthquake on 9 September 2023 that shook Morocco. We can say it with certainty — the building is solid.
What can one say about this hotel? We were drawn by its unconventional character, and it did not disappoint. Having experienced many highly design-driven hotels, this one truly dares to disrupt conventions.
With its bold colours, repurposed vintage objects and eclectic décor, it feels like stepping into the three-dimensional artwork of a slightly mad artist — without forgetting that this is, above all, a hotel designed for comfort and rest.
Daring, yet impeccably professional in its service. A rare place, vibrant and full of energy.
A must if you enjoy being surprised.
Baoussala, An Ecolodge Shaped with Taste
Baoussala defines itself as an ecolodge; we experienced it more as a charming hotel.
It is the result of 25 years of passionate work, where Dominique, the owner, trusted local artisans while adding her own touch of creativity. Her aim was to create a place where life feels good — and she succeeded beautifully.
You can sense establishments that grow through intuition and desire: a perfectly mastered sense of disorder that creates great charm.
The hotel fully reflects the spirit of the city: soulful and authentically alive. We stayed in two suites — one wooden and rather unusual, the other the Eucalyptus suite, deeply rooted in Moroccan tradition through both materials and layout.
A place for those who love beautiful things and wish to immerse themselves in Moroccan culture.
Dar L’Oussia, Staying in the Medina Without Feeling Enclosed
If you are looking for an authentic riad in Essaouira’s medina, with reliable, high-quality service, this is the right address. Impeccably run by highly involved owners.
The riad occupies a large building close to the ramparts, offering space, light and views. Rooms are spacious, service discreet yet attentive, and the rooftop terrace perfect for a breakfast for two.
There is a clear taste for refined decoration, a subtle touch of modernity, just enough to enhance the omnipresent Moroccan craftsmanship.
What we love is the balance: comfort without ostentation, tradition without folklore, excellent cuisine, and a hammam that is a true hidden gem.
We did not stay overnight, but Yves, the owner, kindly showed us around. If you meet him, ask him to tell you the story of the riad’s construction — a true Moroccan adventure that gives the place an entirely new dimension.
Riad Eucalyptus, The Renewal of a Historic Property
The first time I entered Riad Eucalyptus, invited for dinner by its owner, I sat down, stopped talking, and absorbed the unique energy of the place. A strong emotion surfaced, and I thought: This is the kind of establishment I want.
A natural continuation after developing Whaka Lodge, a 12-hectare luxury nature camp in south-west France. A strong soul, charm, craftsmanship, and human intelligence serving an exceptional place, everything I value deeply.
Six months later, almost by chance, we became its managers.
Because the riad deserved it, and because we are hospitality professionals committed to offering the best possible experience, we completely redesigned the rooms, fully renovated the garden into a peaceful haven, elevated service and dining standards, and installed heating in the swimming pool.
Today, Riad Eucalyptus, formerly a guesthouse, has fully embraced its identity as a charming hotel. It is the ideal place to rest and disconnect.
Its location between Essaouira and Sidi Kaouki allows guests to combine relaxation by the pool and in the garden with sport, seaside activities, cultural outings and shopping in the Medina.
As this blog shows, a true travel journal, we are always happy to share our experiences to make your stay a genuine encounter with the vibrant Morocco we love.
So, Where to Stay: Essaouira’s Medina or the Countryside?
The perfect balance: pausing to enjoy the atmosphere of a Moroccan home, where massages, tajines and rest by the heated pool come together to create a deeply rejuvenating experience.