Luxury Riad Mounia

Beneath the crenellated rooftop line of Essaouira's medina, Luxury Riad Mounia occupies a restored townhouse on Rue Laalouj, steps from Skala de la Ville and its cannon-lined ramparts facing the Atlantic. The address suits couples and small families wanting walkable access to the fishing port rather than a beach-resort stay.

A sun deck tops the building for wind-sheltered afternoons, while ground-floor rooms open onto a tiled courtyard used for breakfast service. Windsurfing and horseback riding are arranged directly through the front desk, both popular given Essaouira's steady trade winds.

The old town's souks and Bab Doukkala gate lie within a five-minute walk.