Best Riads in Essaouira

Best Riads in Essaouira, dubbed as the city of winds, stands as one of Morocco’s oldest and most enchanting cities. Renowned for its distinctive architectural allure and captivating views of the Atlantic Ocean, it remains a premier destination for travelers, boasting squares, fortifications, and a scenic coastline. Our purpose is to present you with a curated list of the finest Riads in Essaouira.

Best Riads in Essaouira

Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, stands out for its blend of cultures. Portuguese heritage intertwines with the Phoenician and Roman past. But make no mistake: you are in Morocco. And when it comes to Morocco… it means Riad! These traditional houses of the country have a very distinctive architecture: floors opening onto an inner courtyard, often equipped with wells, pools, plants, and furniture adorned with Moroccan zellige and tiles. The riad also has rooftops to enjoy a sunbathing session, observe the city from above, and listen to the call of the muezzin. Let’s take a look at the riads in Essaouira, with our selection of favorites!

Riad Dar Maya

The Riad Dar Maya is a luxurious establishment comprising 5 rooms in tadelakt with a private marble bathroom. Composed of 3 floors and a terrace, the establishment offers several common areas for all guests: a lounge, a balcony, and a patio. It is also possible for guests to eat in Dar Maya. It also has a hammam and a massage parlor exclusively for hotel guests—the +: the only establishment with a spa with a hot tub on the terrace.

Riad Dharma

Opting for a vacation in the heart of nature makes perfect sense at Riad Dharma. In the spirit of an area of ​​one hectare, the Riad triumphs on a hill overlooking the plains planted with olive and argan trees in the shade of the bustle of the medina of Essaouira. The Kasbah-style architecture in local stones, and harmony of the place, associated with a mixed decoration and frank comfort, offers the hosts refinement, intimacy, and pleasure of the senses, recalling the charm of the old Moroccan residences thanks to its oriental decoration. You can stay in one of seven luxurious suites or rooms with a private bathroom and toilet at this Riad. It consists of seven rooms spread over two floors and around a central patio with pure cotton sheets and Amazighrugs. These things will make your stay in the Riad an absolute pleasure. You can get a massage and enjoy the spa with high-quality services.

Riad Maison du Sud

The Maison du Sud, an 18th-century riad, offers, thanks to its terrace, a double view: both on the sea and the habitats of the Mellah. It comprises 8 rooms and 6 suites. It has a bright patio in the center of the house with sensitive fidelity to the Arab tradition. Food is available on-site.

Riad Al Madina

The Riad Al Madina, a house built in 1871, is a harmonious mix between new and old, with stone columns and arches majestically adorning the large patio. The establishment has 54 rooms, including 16 suites, with the necessary comfort and refined lounges, with a beautiful view from the terrace. A hammam and SPA service will allow you to relax at best.

Riad Malaika

Riad Malaika is a reference address in Essaouira. This elegant and charming place evokes the spirit of the city’s riads. Most of the essential parts of the house were kept, and the 9 rooms have been carefully decorated and renovated. They are refined and tastefully furnished, and all have private bathrooms in tadelakt and zelliges. Equipment for each room: shower (bathtub for the junior suite), toilet, hairdryer, wardrobe/closet, towels changed daily, hospitality products made for Malaïka by Nectarome Marrakech based on essential oils, heating in winter, candle, incense, flowers. The address has also made its reputation thanks to its excellent table d’hôtes with Franco-Moroccan inspiration (dinner by reservation before 4 p.m.).

Riad Perle d’Eau

Riad Perle D’Eau, located in the medina, is one of Essaouira’s luxury riads. Its refined decoration, mixing European and Moroccan traditions, is traditional and comfortable. They have four rooms and suites that look out to the sea or the old city. In addition, a private spa and a rooftop solarium are part of the package. Swiss owners Ernest and Giselle also offer trips to the area, Essaouira, and personalized advice.

Riad Dar Les Sirènes

The Riad Les Sirènes is located in the medina. Restored by architect Edoardo Miotti in a contemporary Moroccan style, it has 3 bedrooms with a private bathroom (bath or shower) on the first floor and two suites with a fireplace, one of which has a private terrace on the second floor of the establishment.

Riad du Figuier

Around a substantial bright patio in the tiny rue Chbanat in the heart of the medina and its typical districts, the Riad du Figuier dates from the 18th century. The Riad is completely renovated and decorated in a traditional Mediterranean style; the Riad offers 5 double and twin rooms—formulas with meals and traditional cuisine on site and cooking lessons on request. Possibility to rent the entire Riad, staff included.

Riad Dar Afram

The building style of Riad Dar Afram is typical of the area. The place is mainly about music. Each of the 6 rooms has its own bathroom. Each room can hold between two and four people. The patio and lounges are the most common places for guests to gather. The private hammam and the terrace with a 360-degree view are great features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What riads in Essaouira have nice views?