Riad Villa Blanche ★★★★

Agadir feels far more familiar than anywhere else in Morocco. This city was completely rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1960 and now, with its huge beachfront promenade, Moroccan street life comes with a refreshing sense of space and a more cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is a wonderful holiday location, with more or less guaranteed sunshine - 300 days a year to be exact - and the pristine waters lapping the sheltered sandy beach are just heavenly. And, only a few minutes’ stroll from the beach is your boutique-like address, the Riad Villa Blanche.

Designed on classic riad principles, Riad Villa Blanche is just like a traditional riad, but bigger. Even so, there are only 28 rooms and suites so it is still an intimate facility where the staff greet you by name and are relaxed and friendly. You will arrive at a pristine white façade with pretty arches concealing shady balconies on the first floor, and elegantly swagged curtains behind the glass of the dining room. Despite the sublime swimming pool, sun loungers, umbrellas and greenery in front, the central serene space of the enclosed courtyard evokes a sense of isolated luxury and elegance that is reminiscent of a traditional riad.

When you enter the inner courtyard, all is tranquil and calm. Marble floors, arched cloisters and soft lighting assure you that this is the genuine inner courtyard of a traditional riad. A balcony encircles the space at first floor level, and this is where we found your base. Dark and solid hardwood furniture, pale marble floors, gossamer curtains at the window, spacious enough for a large sofa and coffee table as well as a king-size size bed, feature lighting - everything just breathes an air of serenity. Moroccan-style details, such as the intricate brass decorations of the low-level table, blended perfectly with contemporary features and modern must-haves like air conditioning, satellite TV and Wi-Fi.

Whist there is a wealth of activities to take part in, you may prefer to just stroll down to the incomparable beach, stay in the riad and relax or sit on the balcony with a morning coffee or a drink with the sunset. Perhaps you will plunge into the indoor pool, treat yourself to a massage in the spa, then, head to the outdoor pool in the precious sunshine, relax in the library with a holiday book, or and dine in the Restaurant Villa Blanche with a great choice of international or traditional Moroccan cuisine.