This is a house full of contrast and contradiction: Moroccan charm and idiosyncracy combined with distinctly cosmopolitan overtones, sumptuous dark mystery against sunlit clarity, generous spaces with hidden corners, chic style and laid back comfort. Interesting and eclectic, in a prime position within the bustling medina.
ABOUT: Primely located in Essaouira’s typically buzzy medina, close to shops and restaurants and only an amble away from the beach, Dar Qawi provides privacy and relaxation. Style-wise, the ‘House by the Sea’ is minimal, with sudden splashes of colour and modernity: think cedarwood furniture, iPod docks, patterned blue cushions, elegant lattice works and tiled floors. Sleeping up to seven, the riad is centred around a trickling alabaster fountain, with two roof terraces awaiting higher up.
ROOMS: The three first-floor bedrooms – two doubles, one a twin – all are en-suite. So too is a dressing chamber which can convert into a child's room. Simple but charming, all the quarters boast Egyptian cotton linen and fluffy towels.
FACILITIES: The ground-floor entrance opens into a generous, prettily-decorated salon; from the adjacent courtyard, stairs lead to the walled lower roof terrace, which contains a shower. Beside it is another airy lounge with a fireplace, satellite TV and DVD player, plus a fully-equipped kitchen. With fine sea views and four sun loungers, the higher roof terrace is entirely devoted to sunbathing. Dinners – an extra, very affordable cost; arrange them with lovely housekeeper and chef Zara – may be eaten up here, as the sun sets and muezzins’ calls fill the dusky air.
EXTRA INFO: Spa treatments, hammams and local excursions can be organised, again via Zara, who will also provide informal cooking classes upon request
The Lawrence of Morocco map displays the locations of the destinations and accommodation that we have selected and visited; for each item, hovering over or clicking the marker will display a short summary and photo of that place or hotel, and hotel pricing. Follow the links in the info box to the full page listing which has much more information.
Note that the online map offers both a satellite view (click satellite in the top right) and, for some locations, a street level view (Drag the person in the top left onto the map). These let you explore the country; and when you wish to explore in person, or if you have any questions about the places you see, give our staff a call, or request a quote. Our staff regularly visit the places and accommodation that we feature.
When you book a holiday with us we will provide full driving instructions for reaching your accommodation, where necessary; these can be used by yourself, or you could enjoy the luxury of a driver. Alternatively we will arrange private (car rather than coach) transfers for you; helicopter transfers are also possible for some destinations.
We really know Morocco and have had the pleasure of making many people's dream trips become reality over the years. It has been our privilege to be asked to manage holidays, weddings and productions for so many fantastic and discerning clients. We remain small and dedicated to providing excellent honest advice to enable you to sit back, relax and enjoy the fun bits without having to manage the unpredictability of this fascinating country.
If you want it done right, look no further!
