Riad Borj El Baroud sits on Rue El Ayachi in the heart of the medina, about two minutes on foot from Essaouira Beach, Place Moulay Hassan and the clock tower. It is a compact riad with four room types, from a standard double to a deluxe double with a king bed, and every room has a private bathroom with shower and free toiletries. Breakfast with local cuisine is included, there is a rooftop terrace for sun and sea air, and a lobby fireplace takes the chill off cool evenings. Room service, laundry, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage keep things practical, and multilingual staff can help with tours and tickets. The Skala du Port and Dar Souiri are about five minutes away. No pool, spa or on-site restaurant is shown.
Location and getting around
This is a very central address, with the beach, the main square and the clock tower each about two minutes away and the Skala du Port about five. The whole old town is walkable, so you can leave luggage at the riad and explore on foot. Essaouira-Mogador airport is around twenty-six minutes away by car, and a transfer can be arranged on request for a fee. The riad offers no parking, so if you arrive by car, plan to leave it outside the walls and ask the hosts where to park.
Rooms and atmosphere
The rooms are small to medium in size, with the standard double the most compact and the deluxe double the roomiest. The mix includes a twin-bedded option, which is handy for friends travelling together. Decoration follows the usual riad pattern, with warm colours and local touches, and the fireplace in the lobby gives the place a cosy feel in winter.
The rooftop terrace is the best place to relax, with views over the rooftops toward the sea. Because there is no restaurant, plan to eat out, and the main square and the harbour grills are close by.
Who it suits and good to know: it is a good choice for couples, friends and solo travellers who want a central base at a sensible price and do not need a pool or spa. Check-in begins around midday and runs until midnight, with limited late arrival options, and check-out is at half past eleven. Pets are not allowed.
As the building is a traditional riad, expect stairs and narrow corridors, and ask about the quietest rooms if you are a light sleeper. Rates and facilities vary by season, so confirm details for your dates. Staff speak several languages and can help with taxis, tours and restaurant suggestions, which is useful on a first visit to the old town.
Why stay here
- ✓Breakfast included
- ✓Rooftop terrace
- ✓Lobby fireplace
- ✓Room service
- ✓24-hour front desk
- ✓Luggage storage
- ✓Laundry and dry cleaning
- ✓Free WiFi
Good questions
Is breakfast included at Borj El Baroud?+
Yes, breakfast with local cuisine is included. Check your rate for the latest terms.
How far is it from the beach?+
About two minutes on foot. Place Moulay Hassan and the clock tower are also around two minutes away.
Does it have parking or a restaurant?+
No parking or on-site restaurant is shown. Room service is available, and the main square is close for meals.
