Riad Dar Maya

The Riad Dar Maya has ample space to enjoy a few hours of leisure. Choose from recessed couches in the courtyard with a fountain to splash your feet in, or the firelit lounge with plush, slate-grey sofas, repurposed flour-sack poufs, and a library. Enjoy a pampering at the traditional marble hammam and soak in the heated pool on the rooftop terrace, which will soon become a favourite spot for sundowners too. Best reserved in advance, dinner is a three-course occasion with a menu of rich, Moroccan cuisine. Seafood is, of course, a main feature.

Named after the five elements, the rooms are decorated in soothing, neutral tones of mocha, cream and grey. The candle lanterns, rustic lamps and fireplaces cast a glow over the rooms, and all are decorated with pottery and treasures found in the local souks. Polished tadelakt walls, Moorish arches, and two-person marble tubs in the medieval-style bathrooms are Morocco down to a tee, and Egyptian cottons and stylish chairs add an international touch. Each room also has a sitting area and balcony with a view of the medina.

With prime real estate in Essaouira's historic medina, you're never far from the cafes, bars and live music spots. Wander down the zig-zagging maze of lanes in the souk and pick up traditional garb, pottery and chwaya-style seafood, or explore the ramparts, see how argan oil is made, and watch the parade of tiny boats at the fishing market. A few minutes from the riad is the uncrowded Plage d'Essaouira beach where horse-riding in the waves and surfing of every kind are on the agenda.