Douar Souiri

There’s nothing like a magical and mystical retreat to North Africa, to Morocco where fantasy fiction seems to come to life. My husband and I were about to enter the door of a most indulgent residence, to begin living like the locals, the authentic life. We were looking to discover the traditional Moroccan lifestyle without losing our modern day comforts. And our search led us to the delightful Douar Souiri, our diamond in the rough, sparkling with glamour yet rooted by Moroccan traditions.

Though the fully-equipped, four person apartments tempted us, we could not find enough people to join us on our spontaneous trip. So, we just decided to take our own romantic holiday away, just the two of us in this new and exotic land. Our superior bedroom greeted us with two towels in the shape of kissing swans and a bed dotted with romantic scarlet petals. Our room was cosy yet cool with tiled flooring and bare bricked walls, giving it an enchanting rustic touch. Step outside and there was a surprising amount of green that filled the grounds of this North African hotel. A picturesque oasis. We both breathed a sigh of satisfaction and happiness when we arrived.

In fact the resort resembled a private Berber village, and we were the exclusive guests that were allowed to experience it. Luxury our ground floor room had a small furnished terrace that lead out to this newly discovered paradise. Just a short walk away lay the glittering pool, lined with white, cushioned sun beds and surrounded by a smooth beige patio. This is where we enjoyed a flavourful breakfast with fruits, continental treats and Moroccan specialities. The first heat of the day was just breaking through, so we ate in fresh and sunny happiness, only return to the same place in our swimming gear to dive into the irresistible pool.

The hotel also boasts a decadent Moroccan restaurant that is kitted out in royal and rich reds. It has a sensual and romantic atmosphere, but you can also sit on the terrace and have your meal by candlelight, under the many stars that occupy the sky in this corner of the planet. One of our favourite nights took place here, just my husband and I enjoying the spicy flavours of Moroccan cuisine and every now again looking at the twinkling beads in the sky.

Another one of our favourite moments was taking our shuttle to Essaouira’s bustling medina. Though we had been to Marrakech’s medina a few times, here was slightly different with a more of a small town atmosphere. It was relaxing and eye-opening, yet we still planned to indulge in the spa as soon as we returned! Two luscious spa treatments awaited us once we arrived back at the Douar Souiri, massages in the cabins filled with heavenly aromas followed by the hammam  -- what would a trip to Morocco be without it!