OVERVIEW \ enchanting design villa with rooms starting at $150

Located near the coastal town of Essaouira, this tranquil retreat sits nestled alongside the forest of Douar Laaraich. Villa Anouk was built in the Moroccan Beldi Tradition, made entirely of stone and wood with thatched ceilings by local artisans and master craftsmen. The result is s stunning retreat with huge cedar-framed doors and arched windows, exposed stone walls, terracotta floors, and interiors meticulously curated with authentic accents and furnishings. With multiple sprawling common areas,  7 large bedrooms, and gardens and terraces cascading off the rambling property, there are endless variations of sunny and shady places to enjoy the day. We can't forget the the Roman-style swimming pool housed within a beautiful colonnaded room where you can open the doors to let in the breeze or close out the infamous alize winds for year round enjoyment. This enchanting refuge is the perfect base to explore the area, but also to relax and bliss out in the beautiful setting.

ROOMS

There are 7 suites, each with their own decor and special touches. Some are inter-connected, which are great for families, others feature claw-foot tubs, intimate patios, outdoor showers, gilded ceilings and wall to wall sofas. Each is unique, but non forgettable!

HIGHLIGHTs

Breakfast is served family style in a large communal dining room and includes fresh fruit and yogurt, baskets of hot bread and pancakes, eggs served to your liking with as much coffee, tea and fresh seasonal juice as you'd like.

The food is incredible and most guests opt to stay in for traditional berber cooking.

The owner, Anouk, has a daughter and goes out of her way to make little travellers feel just as special, including such features as a wading pool and a groovy kids room with 2 single beds.

It has the feel of a private home, but with the comfort level and service of a hotel.

ESSENTIALS

Swimming pool, restaurant, wifi, parking, laundry, room service,

LOCATION

Essaouira, Morocco

RATES

Room rates start at $150, entire villa (sleeps 14) $1275

Rates include breakfast.

NEED TO KNOW

Some of the rooms are on the ground floor, however there are steps up to most rooms and on the terraces.

WORTH CHECKING OUT

Essaouira and the old medina are just 10 minutes away. This is a beautiful walled city that is wonderful to explore with winding streets, vendors, local cafes, restaurants.

Surfing - there is a tiny village called Moulay Bouzektown which is known for its surfing. Also a great spot to visit for lunch (Lawama Restaurant!).

10 minutes away is another beach, this one 26km long and completely untouched. The perfect place to enjoy a long walk or to see the sunset.

Other activities available include: ATV, Camel treks, kitesurfing, shopping tours, cooking classes, live music, golf, spa and beauty treatments.

CONTACT \ BOOKING

For information or booking visit their website and instagram.

*photos courtesy of Britney Gill