7 of the Best Villas Near Essaouira

Looking for the best villas near Essaouira? Discover 7 incredible places to stay for a country escape on the doorstep of historic Mogador.

Usually when I visit Essaouira, I stay in the heart of the medina to be within walking distance of the city’s amazing cafes, restaurants and the fish market at the port. But increasingly, I’m being enchanted by the surrounding countryside, which really is gorgeous!

Comprising cedar forests and rolling hills studded with argan trees, it’s undeniably peaceful. Plus, it’s home to some incredible Essaouira villas where you can stay. 

Staying in a villa near Essaouira is ideal if you’re planning a week-long escape and want to explore beyond the medina with a rental car. Not only will you have more space (the medina can be crowded). But you won’t have the issue of trying to find a park outside the UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre.

Most of the villas near Essaouira are set within beautiful gardens and come with inviting swimming pools. So a day spent relaxing on a sun lounger should definitely be on the itinerary!

If this sounds like your idea of a relaxing getaway, then I’m here to help with 7 of the best villas near Essaouira for couples, families and groups. While some operate like boutique hotels, with individual rooms for rent, others can be booked exclusively.

Complete with friendly staff, gourmet chefs and luxurious amenities, these Essaouira villas provide an idyllic home base for discovering everything the region has to offer. 

For more information about visiting this coastal city, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Essaouira.

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Le Jardin des Douars

Best luxury boutique hotel near Essaouira

Nestled in the argan-dotted hills southeast of Essaouira, Le Jardin des Douars is a boutique Essaouira hotel surrounded by walled gardens. Its earthen building sits along the banks of the Oued Ksob. It really is the perfect getaway for those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

One step inside the grounds of this gorgeous villa near Essaouira and you know you’ve arrived somewhere special. Le Jardin des Douars features two sparkling pools, a padel court and several sun-drenched terraces. Plus, there’s a traditional hammam offering a range of body scrubs and treatments.

Inside, the decor beautifully marries French elegance with North African charm, giving the rooms a unique aesthetic. Staying at this boutique villa near Essaouira means being surrounded by luxurious linens, sunken baths and private terraces, as well as cosy fireplaces in the cooler months.

Lunches can be enjoyed on the sun-drenched terrace, with the Sunday barbecue a particularly highlight. Dinners are usually served in the candlelit dining room. I also love the open kitchen policy, meaning you can always poke your head in to see what the chefs are up to.

“An exceptional setting for a magical stay.” – Eric (read more reviews here)

Riad Yanitri

Best villa near Essaouira for design enthusiasts

With its castle-like architecture, this highly-rated villa near Essaouira lies just 15 minutes’ drive from the medina. Despite being so close, it feels a world away, tucked away in a really peaceful rural setting.

Riad Yanitri seamlessly blends traditional Moroccan elements with modern comforts. The result is a refined “Beldi-chic” aesthetic that design enthusiasts will love. 

All of the rooms and suites feature natural hues, tadelakt plaster and artisanal materials. Together, they imbue each space with a calming ambiance. I also love the large windows overlooking the gardens that invite the natural world inside.

Families will appreciate the spacious two-bedroom bungalow, complete with its own private patio. It’s an ideal retreat for those travelling with children.

Outside, a shimmering pool awaits, fringed by comfortable loungers. Here, you can relax and soak up the sun after a day of sightseeing and adventure.

“Great ambiance for a family stay.” – Maria (read more reviews here)

Villa des Arganiers

Best affordable villa near Essaouira Airport

Villa des Arganiers is a charming guesthouse in the argan tree-studded countryside near Sidi Kaouki (to the south of Essaouira). It’s a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the medina while being really close to the airport.

Each of the guest rooms is thoughtfully designed, with most offering their own private terrace for enjoying the stunning surroundings. All provide easy access to the 20-metre heated swimming pool, making this villa near Essaouira appealing even outside of the summer months. Plus, there’s a pétanque court for some friendly competition.

Villa des Arganiers is a relatively affordable Essaouira villa that can comfortably accommodate up to 14 guests in total. Aside from individual bookings, it can also be rented exclusively by extended families and groups.

“Beautifully decorated suite in a green oasis and an incredible swimming pool.” – Dave (read more reviews here)

Villa des Hauts Mogador

Best boutique villa near Essaouira for couples

Designed with incredible attention to detail (the glowing reviews say it all!), Villa des Hauts Mogador is tucked away in the countryside to the northeast of Essaouira. This luxurious villa is an ideal retreat for couples seeking a serene getaway, all within easy access to the medina.

Not only are the spacious rooms and suites beautifully appointed but there are plenty of outdoor areas where you can relax. When you’re not sightseeing in Essaouira or exploring the surrounding beaches, you can take a refreshing dip in the sparkling pool or lounge on the sunbathing terrace.

The patio of this villa near Essaouira offers stunning views of the landscaped gardens. In my opinion, it provides the perfect setting for enjoying gourmet meals crafted using local produce.

Free private parking and complimentary WiFi add to the convenience of Villa des Hauts Mogador. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention the hospitality is second to none. 

“The perfect retreat near Essaouira.” – Adam (read more reviews here)

Villa Sarah

Best high-end villa in Sidi Kaouki

Villa Sarah is a high-end villa positioned a little way back from Sidi Kaouki Beach. As such, you really need a rental car to access it. The remote-ish setting equates to absolute tranquility – perfect for those seeking a quiet escape. 

Not only does this villa near Essaouira offer sweeping views of the surrounding landscape but there’s an infinity pool that seems to melt into the horizon. 

Guests consistently rave about the exceptional hospitality provided by the villa’s attentive hosts. From arranging surf lessons to horseback rides along the beach at sunset, they will ensure your stay is as active (or relaxing) as you desire.

After a day of adventure, you can unwind by the outdoor fireplace. It’s the perfect spot to socialise, stargaze and be completely enchanted by the serene atmosphere.

“Excellent stay at Villa Sarah. Very clean, very comfortable, beautiful new features and a shared kitchen. Nighttime tea and breakfast by the pool were so relaxing.” – Aaron (read more reviews here)

Les Jardins de Silona

Best exclusive villa near Essaouira for groups

Sheltered from Essaouira’s notoriously windy conditions, this whitewashed villa lies a short drive east of the medina and can be rented exclusively by groups and families. It centres around a 120-square-metre heated pool, surrounded by a wooded garden with a pétanque court and resident chooks.

Water sports enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the semi-covered space designed for storing kites, surfboards and other gear. Additionally, there’s a hammam and massage treatment room for those seeking more pampering experiences.

At the heart of this villa near Essaouira is a large, well-equipped kitchen, plus a living room with a fireplace that opens onto the inviting patio. The five bedrooms are thoughtfully arranged around the patio, with access from the outside.

In addition to two double bedrooms designed for couples, there is one triple and a family suite with three interconnecting rooms. For entertainment, there is a separate TV room filled with books, magazines and board games.

In summary, this is an ideal place to stay for those visiting Essaouira with kids in tow. 

“Great property with a fab pool in a beautiful Moroccan garden.” – Kari (read more reviews here)

Kasbah d’Eau

Best boutique hotel in Sidi Kaouki

Kasbah d’Eau is more a boutique hotel than a villa. But it’s a worthy addition to this list for its spectacular coastal setting in Sidi Kaouki. It only opened at the end of 2024. So everything is brand-spanking new and it has a really high-end feel to it.

In total, there are 17 suites, which include spacious doubles and twins. There are also multi-bedroom options for families and groups.

All enjoy magnificent views of the ocean or the mountains behind Sidi Kaouki and come complete with ensuite bathrooms in polished tadelakt. 

At the heart of this boutique hotel near Essaouira is a soaring atrium. From here, you can access the terrace with its sun loungers and a heated infinity pool.

There’s a restaurant and bar for grabbing drinks and meals throughout the day, as well as a well-stocked library, a games room (complete with a pool table) and an underground gym.

Wellness aficionados can indulge at the spa, which features two treatment rooms and a traditional hammam. 

“Kasbah d’Eau is an absolute gem and staying here was the highlight of our Morocco trip.” – Matthew (read more reviews here)

About Me

I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.

Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.

I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.