Villa Maroc is one of Essaouira's long-established riad hotels, set in the medina close to the ocean on Rue Abdellah Ben Yassine. It is a classic, characterful base for travellers who want to be in the middle of the old town rather than on its edge. Rooms are arranged around courtyards and terraces, and the range is unusually wide: single rooms, doubles opening onto a courtyard, suites, sea view suites and a two-bedroom family room that sleeps four. The Traditional Restaurant serves Moroccan family cooking at breakfast and dinner, and breakfast is often enjoyed on the rooftop terrace. An on-site Oriental Spa offers facials, massage and other treatments, and a garden, a gift shop and a hair salon add to the feel of a small village under one roof. The walk to Place Moulay Hassan and the clock tower takes about a minute.
Location and getting around
The hotel sits inside the walls near the water, with Place Moulay Hassan and the clock tower about a minute away on foot and the beach, Skala du Port and Skala de la Ville about three minutes. That makes it one of the most convenient addresses for first-time visitors who want to walk everywhere.
Essaouira-Mogador airport is about twenty-seven minutes by car, and an airport shuttle can be arranged on request for a fee. Self parking is available for a daily charge, which is useful given that most medina riads have none, though lanes near the entrance are narrow, so confirm directions with the hotel before arriving by car.
Rooms and atmosphere
Expect a warm, traditional style, with Moroccan decoration, tiled floors and terraces, rather than a polished modern look. The mix of room types makes the hotel flexible, so solo travellers, couples and families can all find something suitable. The family room, with two bedrooms, is a real asset for parents who dislike squeezing everyone into one space.
Sea view suites are the choice if you want to wake to the Atlantic. The restaurant is family-run and serves kids' meals as well as local dishes, and the terrace is a lovely place for a slow breakfast in the sun. Note that no pool is shown here, so plan to use the beach instead.
Who it suits and good to know: it is a good fit for families, couples and independent travellers who value location and character over resort-style facilities. Services include a 24-hour front desk, a concierge, luggage storage, laundry and tour and ticket assistance, plus free in-room WiFi. Check-in starts mid-afternoon and runs late into the night, and check-out is at noon. Pets are not allowed. Because lanes can be lively into the evening, ask about quieter rooms if you are a light sleeper, and confirm the facilities available for your dates.
Why stay here
- ✓Rooftop breakfast terrace
- ✓Traditional Moroccan restaurant
- ✓Oriental spa and massage
- ✓Garden and terrace
- ✓Family room for four
- ✓24-hour front desk and concierge
- ✓Luggage storage
- ✓Free WiFi
Good questions
How close is Villa Maroc to Place Moulay Hassan?+
About a minute on foot. The beach and the two Skalas are around three minutes away.
Does it have a pool?+
No pool is shown. Guests usually use the beach, and the on-site Oriental Spa offers treatments.
Is it suitable for families?+
Yes, there is a two-bedroom family room that sleeps four, and the restaurant serves kids' meals.
