RIAD MADADA MOGADOR

This was a repeat of our visit last year. The owner and staff are so friendly and helpful - nothing is too much trouble. Comfortable accommodation and wonderful breakfasts on the terrace. We went with two other couples who had not previously visited and they were also very happy with everything. WiFi a bit erratic but probably not the fault of the hotel. Essaouira will be even better when all the sea front works are complete

Riad Madada Mogador has to be in the best location in Essaouira, just inside the old medina walls with the South facing roof terrace having unrivalled views out towards the golden Atlantic sands of its stunning beach, the port area and part of the medina itself. A nice Moroccan feel throughout whilst blending with modern for comfort supported by warm, friendly staff, made this a wonderful experience for us. It's simple to find when entering the medina, second left up Avenue De Caire and about 2/3rds of the way along with the entrance shared with Riad Muntaz Mahal, (just turn right as soon as you enter to go up the stairs, not into the other Riad) - I mention this because we walked past it! Elegant Riad and immediately felt welcomed on arrival and taken through a map of the town and offered a choice of rooms. We booked and took the apartment which connects through the kitchen but also has it's own convenient entrance out onto a different street. The apartment was stunning - huge, with a mezzanine floor for the main bedroom. Comfortable with its own dedicated Wifi, television/blu ray player, main bathroom with separate toilet, second bedroom with shower / toilet, dining area/desk area and kitchenette. We were most happy here and loved the independence of the alternative entrance - just two suggestions for improvement of the apartment for the Riad - put up a wall to separate the toilet/bathroom area from the bed area in the second bedroom so one of you does not have to leave if the other is using it and also please provide more kitchen utensils (we had no way to slice some oranges without borrowing a knife from the Riad kitchen). It's quiet here too and an beautiful escape from the bustle of the Medina. A short walk to everywhere, the beach, the port, Skala, the medina, restaurants, bars and so on. It has a friendly house cat called Sultana too whom the children loved petting every day particularly at breakfast. Breakfast was plentiful and a great standard, with tea/coffee, fresh yoghurt, orange juice, lots of amazing moroccan bread, pancakes, eggs, jams/honey and various chopped fruit in a jar (e.g. pear). Breakfast on the terrace overlooking Essaouira was one of the highlights. Good Wifi connectivity throughout, even out on the roof terrace. Safe area outside the Riad but then I felt safe in all parts of Essaouira. Great to walk around the immediate area and didn't feel hassled at all by any vendors, anything but that actually. We only had two nights here - instantly regretted not having planned to spendlonger here (and in Essaouira). Enchanting place and worth staying here for the view from the terrace alone. Would be my first choice again for combination of comfort, staff friendliness, location and service. Book it now!

I had the suite with private terrace area. It was wonderful! A cosy suite with a comfy double bed, massive sunken bath, compact little lounge leading out onto the massive terrace ( divided from the main terrace by a simple curtain). Breakfast was awesome, staff very friendly and always helpful. Last but not least the owner who was a picture of professionalism and a awesome service. There was a storm prior to my arrival which had damaged a door ( which needed fixing) and caused an interesting smell ( on one night) in my bathroom. These caused a minor inconvenience to me but were treated seriously and correctly by her leading to me paying for one less night. Thank you. A very generous and respectful way to treat your guests. I will return!

At the port of Essaouira, near the crystal-clear blue water of the Atlantic, authentic wooden boats wait for daily adventures by local artisan fisherman. In this quiet, remote coastal city, an intimate accommodation lies close to the port. Madada Mogador provides guests with a spectacular view of the ocean, in a calm orientalism-inspired environment where Zen meets Moroccan culture. The first thing I noticed upon arrival was how serene the hotel was. With earthy, natural colors adorning the walls and décor, and the sounds of Essaouira and the ocean nearby, I felt a rush of calm sweep over me. The staff helped me check in to my accommodations with a friendly welcome. I was even greeted by a housecat, whom I believe to be the true master of the house. I spent a night in the Suite Cherifa, a beautiful, warm room with a large double bed. I loved the beauty of the working fireplace, adding to the cozy vibe of the entire guest house. I perused the supplied books on the shelf near the bed, which I thought was definitely a great touch to make the place feel more like home. The private bath has a gorgeous dark tiled tub, perfect for a relaxing soak. The nearby window allowed natural light to fill the room, and the sun to warm the tub as you unwind. The room offered a separate seating area, which was great for enjoying a book. I think my favorite part of my stay was the private terrace attached to my room. Looking out upon the sea, I could watch the waves crest against the shore, the soothing sounds of the moving ocean offering a natural soundtrack to my stay. The terrace was furnished with comfortable armchair and deck chairs for sunbathing. I enjoyed the amount of privacy I had, yet I took comfort in knowing I was never alone. If I needed anything, the staff at Madada Mogador was ready to provide it. Essaouira is a gem of a Moroccan city, and well worth the few hours’ drive from Marrakech. I recommend Madada Mogador as the best place to stay in the coastal town.

It is hard to describe the feeling we had sitting on the roof overlooking the ocean on Christmas day. This place is extraordinarily beautiful and exceptionally comfortable. I would stay here time and time and time again.