Salut Maroc hotel review, Essaouira, Morocco

December 11, 2024, 12:44:16 PM

Salut Maroc hotel review, Essaouira, Morocco

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A boutique hotel in an 18th Century Riad, right in the heart of the ancient Medina, with magnificent views of the Atlantic over historic ramparts.

The post Salut Maroc hotel review, Essaouira, Morocco appeared first on The Travel Magazine.

Salut Maroc hotel stands as an oasis of bohemian luxury in Essaouira, the tiny walled city on the edge of the Atlantic. Orson Welles filmed his Hamlet here and the 1960’s attracted rock stars like Jimi Hendrix and Mick Jagger. These days it still retains its unique calm and charm.

Salut Maroc hotel is the dream project of British owner, Helen Howat, who bought the building in 2012 when it was an empty shell. She was attracted by its position at the edge of the ramparts, with the deep blue sea beyond, and set about creating her unique vision. It took five years for it to beco*e a reality as she scoured the world for antique furniture and employed local artisans to craft the interiors.

Nothing was too much trouble and such was her attention that she even designed all the textiles. What she created is a riot of colour, yet still tasteful, matching the beat of the city’s heart. Even the bathrooms became destinations in themselves, retro luxury yet co*pletely functional.

Who for

Salut Maroc hotel is ideal for singles, couples and families who want a luxury base in the heart of historic Medina with gorgeous sea views.

**Acco*modation**

Each of the 11 unique rooms and suites is strikingly different and is themed to match destinations in Morocco. They offer a truly contemporary take on Moroccan design yet draw on traditional artisanal skills of local craftsmen. The result is a fusion of Islamic patterns and vibrant colours, a vibrant stage for her collection of contemporary and antique furniture.

Although the interiors feel they’ve been here for centuries, they’re all in fact entirely new as the building was derelict. Multi-coloured steps lead up a narrow stairway to sumptuous landings where doors open to rooms and suites. Each bathroom has a large copper bath tub, hammered by artisans in Marrakech, and the fittings are traditional brass. Special mention must be made of the Thomas Crapper Toilet, “The Venerable” with varnished wooden seat.

We stayed on the second floor in two different suites. Our first was Tangier. “Looking out to Sea” with private seating area, king sized bed, private bathroom and copper bath tub.

Above the bed there was an Orientalist mural depicting Moroccan subjects looking out to sea. The large floor to ceiling windows open out to this sea view and the ramparts. Sunset are to die for and the sounds of the waves ensured a peaceful sleep.

Our second suite, Casablanca “Mosaic Trellis”, also came with a king sized bed, private bathroom and copper bathtub. The textiles in all rooms were unique, this time in sumptuous yellow. It also had its own private salon lined with the entrance wall a wealth of traditional mosaic tile patterns. The period chair, chest and tables were particularly striking.

Food and Drink

The rooftop is devoted to drinking and dining, with stunning sea views, fresh Atlantic breezes, and exquisite sunsets. The restaurant occupies several levels and is usually open air, although there is an interior space in case of rain.

It’s a special place for breakfast with freshly pressed orange juice, traditional Moroccan bread and pastries, served with a selection of local preserves. There’s also porridge, yoghurt, fruit and Berber omelettes.

The lunch and dinner menu features fresh charcoal grilled fish and local produce, all organic. The Moroccan chef has been here since the beginning and features international dishes, together more traditional dishes like couscous, pastillas and tagines. In the evening there’s live music.

Facilities

You enter through blue doors to an enchanting tiled courtyard, serving as the reception area. Above, a cobalt blue nest of painted balconies open up to the sky. On one side is a relaxation space kittled out with cushions and tables. There’s a private Hamman, beautiful tiled, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the souk. The bar and restaurant are on the roof, but sweetbreads and bottled water are supplied free in your room on arrival

How much

Rooms at Salut Maroc start from 180€ based on two adults sharing and include breakfast.

CHECK AVAILABILITY

What’s nearby?

Above the alley outside the hotel are the ramparts, lined with cannons, and beyond is the Atlantic. Street sellers ply their wares here and narrow streets lead into the heart of the Medina, a matter of minutes away. You’ll find the local market here and an assortment of restaurants.

A 15 minute walk takes you to the fishing port where you watch fishermen unload their catch. Buy some of their fish and have it cooked to perfection at one of the many stalls nearby. Just beyond is the long sandy beach, shallow and safe for swimming with surfers at the far end. Marrakech is just under four hours away by bus.

VERDICT:

Salut Maroc hotel is a very special place in a very special city. Enter a multi-coloured Moroccan dreamscape and admire the crashing waves outside, whilst wallowing in bohemian luxury.

Rue Ibn Rochd, Kasbah, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco.

The post Salut Maroc hotel review, Essaouira, Morocco appeared first on The Travel Magazine.

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