If you’re in need of some winter warmth, Essaouira on Morocco’s Atlantic coast offers the chance to soak up some culture as well as some sun. StyleNest paid a visit to one of the city’s most famous hotels, Madada Mogador, which offers elegant colonial style rooms and sea views from its impressive terrace.
Hidden on a quiet street in Essaouira, Madada Mogador offers a private and peaceful sanctuary in the bustling coastal town. Upon arrival we were given a warm Moroccan welcome from the hotel’s friendly team and the resident cat Sultana, including an in-depth introduction to the city complete with maps, recommendations and insider advice, which proved to be useful during our stay to avoid the tourist traps and get the most out of the city.
After the essential part of our introduction, we were also offered welcome pastries and mint tea up on the hotel’s terrace. One of the highlights of the hotel, the terrace offers an alternative to traditional dipping pool and patio found in many of the riads. The sea views and pleasant breeze also make a welcome break from the heat of the city, and the perfect place to relax with a drink when you are tired of shopping, souks, and sightseeing
Inside, the hotel also offers another take on Moroccan style if you want to try an alternative to the classic riad, with large, colonial style rooms decorated in simple white and brown tones. Our own room was an impressively big Deluxe Suite which even boasted a second bedroom on the mezzanine floor, making it perfect for friends who are happy sharing. The hotel is well equipped for groups, with the Loft Suite in particular perfect for families thanks to its three bedrooms, kitchenette and living room, especially if Essaouira is your summer destination rather than just a stop off from nearby Marrakech.
If you are staying long enough, then Madada Mogador also offers plenty of other ways to experience Essaouira in addition to a stay at the hotel. Offering a complete experience for guests, the hotel also owns the nearby feted Table de Mogador, with gourmet seafood dishes and Moroccan cuisine, and Le Comptoir Oriental, the perfect place to pay a visit for elegant interiors and accessories as a reminder of your trip. Guests can also arrange a half a day cooking course through the hotel to learn how to prepare some of Morocco’s traditional dishes.
Breakfast at the hotel is also a traditional and delicious spread of Moroccan crepes and honey, yoghurts and figs, and fresh coffee and juice, all served on pretty pottery which try as we might, we couldn’t find in the souks to take home. Best taken on the terrace, here guests can enjoy the friendly service, warm open air and sea view, making the perfect end to a winter escape to Essaouira.