Mama Lova Essaouira ★★★★

Having carefully retained its authentic Moroccan architecture, this intimate hotel in Essaouira boasts beautifully redesigned spaces offering a stylish and incredibly comfortable place to lay your head. Each room is uniquely decorated with plenty of space, luxurious bedding and pretty tiled private bathrooms. Located in the medina and right next to the beach, it's got a prime spot in this captivating city.

Stepping out into Essaouira's medina is like being transported back in time. This historic walled part of the city, with its imposing 18th-century gates and walkable ramparts, is quieter than the famous medina in Marrakech but still provides a bustling atmosphere with al fresco cafes, art galleries and shops selling ceramics, spices and rugs.

After a day of exploring, return to relax on the hotel's open-air rooftop patio with its incredible sweeping views over the city’s rooftops. Decorated with warm tan colours, comfy cushioned seating, and surrounded by large terracotta pots and lush greenery - it's the perfect place to sit under clear blue skies and feel the warm African sun on your skin.

Throughout your stay, you'll find the hospitality offered exceptional. Always happy to help, the hotel staff will be delighted to organise local activities for you, whether a guided tour of the medina, a visit to an Essaouira winery, or arranging bike hire – a great way to explore the area.

You should definitely try the hotel’s superb restaurant with a delicious menu of gourmet French, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern-influenced cuisine and you’ll find plenty of tasty vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available on request.

At the end of the day, nothing is better than sitting and watching the waves roll in as the sun casts its epic sunset display to the west, slowly sinking into the ocean. Maybe, you think, we could stay just a little bit longer.