Dar Qawi

Coastal hotels & riads in Morocco, Essaouira

This is a house full of contrast and contradiction: Moroccan charm and idiosyncracy combined with distinctly cosmopolitan overtones, sumptuous dark mystery against sunlit clarity, generous spaces with hidden corners, chic style and laid back comfort. Interesting and eclectic, in a prime position within the bustling medina.

ABOUT: Primely located in Essaouira’s typically buzzy medina, close to shops and restaurants and only an amble away from the beach, Dar Qawi provides privacy and relaxation.  Style-wise, the ‘House by the Sea’ is minimal, with sudden splashes of colour and modernity: think cedarwood furniture, iPod docks, patterned blue cushions, elegant lattice works and tiled floors.  Sleeping up to seven, the riad is centred around a trickling alabaster fountain, with two roof terraces awaiting higher up.

ROOMS: The three first-floor bedrooms – two doubles, one a twin – all are en-suite.  So too is a dressing chamber which can convert into a child's room.  Simple but charming, all the quarters boast Egyptian cotton linen and fluffy towels.

FACILITIES: The ground-floor entrance opens into a generous, prettily-decorated salon; from the adjacent courtyard, stairs lead to the walled lower roof terrace, which contains a shower.  Beside it is another airy lounge with a fireplace, satellite TV and DVD player, plus a fully-equipped kitchen.  With fine sea views and four sun loungers, the higher roof terrace is entirely devoted to sunbathing.  Dinners – an extra, very affordable cost; arrange them with lovely housekeeper and chef Zara – may be eaten up here, as the sun sets and muezzins’ calls fill the dusky air. 

EXTRA INFO: Spa treatments, hammams and local excursions can be organised, again via Zara, who will also provide informal cooking classes upon request 

For your Moroccan coastal holiday at the Dar Qawi, call 0207 112 0019 to discuss your plans.

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