Les Jardins d'Argane

This time round, this city couple was seeking out some exotic, countryside comfort when our eyes came across Les Jardins d’Argane, Essaouira, Morocco. Though we had never heard of Essaouira before, we were soon won over by the charming little place, full of culture in its food and artisan products and we adored its lively, curious medina and labyrinth of streets.

Les Jardins d’Argane is a charming little guesthouse set in tranquillity, away from this hustle and bustle, but still close enough to enjoy Essaouira from this relaxing and quiet base. The house lies in amongst a hectare of greenery, where animals such as cats, peacocks and even turtles roam freely to seek out water and the shade, in a country that has over 300 days of guaranteed sunshine.

It is an exclusive hotel with only seven bedrooms, a perfect place to be well taken care of and the best place in which to relax, especially considering their hammam, selection of massages and beauty treatments that are offered. This personal, quiet and tranquil atmosphere was exactly what my husband and I were looking for. We were personally welcomed by the hosts themselves, Carole and Pascal, to this cocoon of relaxation and peace. Their helpful staff were a large part of what made our stay memorable; it was great just to have casual conversation with them and because of this excellent welcome, we truly felt at home.

This home away from home is a great stone feat with a Moroccan flourishes; large, ornate wooden doors, intricate perforated pottery and tiled flooring all create an authentic atmosphere. The interior is decorated with Moroccan carpets and upholstery, whilst intricate lamps line the ceilings and lay at the four corners of the pool which is colourfully lit at night. Comfy sofas and armchairs surround it as well as the green of the garden and its wildlife. This was much to our delight being animal lovers; to see turtles walking amongst the grass was a real treat. By the pool we enjoyed day after day of sunny breakfasts, a slow, refreshing wake up to each bright, new day. Our taste buds revelled in the feel of smooth bread and crêpes drowned in honey or jam, together with a tea, coffee, hot chocolate or some sweet orange juice. We also decided to choose the full-board option for convenience, and we certainly did not regret our decision! The food was continuously and deliciously satisfying.

Inside, our bedroom was light and spacious; it had a sizeable balcony and a small table and chairs, facing the serene garden. We learned from other guests that other rooms had terraces or faced the pool, but the restful garden was just perfect for us. Elaborate and vibrant Moroccan fabrics make up the bedding and upholster the furniture and the technology of TV and air-conditioning effortlessly blends in to this Moroccan faithfulness. The en-suite was elegant, with smart marble furnishings, featuring a walk-in shower on a deliciously smooth floor.

Though our plan was for a relaxing holiday we couldn’t resist checking out the surrounding leisure activities. Les Jardins D’Argane is surrounded by exciting activity whether you opt for the relaxing golf or camel ride or the more thrilling quad-biking, kite-surfing or wind-surfing. It was the quad-biking in the sands that my husband and I enjoyed, and then it was back to the scrumptious food and serenity of Les Jardins D’Argane to plan our day in the port of Essaouira.