Think of a beautiful tropical oasis and think Jardin des Douars. Amongst in the argan-tree hills of Essaouria, you will find this gorgeous boutique hotel.
Surrounded by beautiful and exotic flowers, this boutique offers the very best that Morocco can offer. The domed villas are nestled in walled gardens where French chic is combined with North African exuberance, away from the hustle and bustle.
With two beautiful jade-green pools, seasonal menus and a hammam complete this super-chic bohemian hang-out is perfect for sunshine throughout the year. We interview Gregoire Aubron who runs Jardin des Douars along with his wife Nanie Aubron…
What atmosphere/look did you want to create?
Jardin des Douars is located inside its own botanical garden so we already have a very special and unique setting her on Morocco’s coast in Essaouira. We wanted people to have options and so we offer various room types and luxury villas, all have access to the outdoors. Other options include the heated swimming pools, there are two; an adults only one and a family one and all the villas have their own private pools. In terms of cuisine, all guests also have options as we have a large open plan restaurant with wonderful views of the gardens open to all and a ‘couples’ only restaurant for small groups and designed in a more intimate style. We also offer alfresco dining outside for all. We are open to non-guests also. The hammam is unique to Morocco and we offer traditional Moroccan treatments and also more international spa treatments.
Why Essaouria?
Essaouira is like nowhere else in Morocco. Visitors can combine a beach and cultural town break in one holiday and enjoy a very laid-back vibe that invites relaxation and some exploration. Over the last few years, there has been a surge in cool new openings of local independent businesses around the medina including restaurants, shops and galleries. Here you can also embrace all kinds of sports especially water sports experiences including Stand Up Paddle, Windsurfing, Surfing and Kite Surfing. 10 minutes from us we have a wonderful golf course. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Essaouira’s beach is Golf de Mogador. Designed by Gary Player, the newly launched 18- and 13- hole courses have been beautifully integrated into the natural landscape. Open daily, the two courses are ideal for professionals and beginners.
What are your top tips when visiting the area?
Restaurant: La Table by Madada – Medina
Restaurant: Umia – Medina
Restaurant: La Mouette et les Dromadaires – Sidi Kaouki beach
Art Gallery: Gallerie l’Arbre Bleu
Art Gallery: L’Atelier des Arts Empreinte
Shopping: Histoire de Filles
Throughout Essaouira visitors will witness artists at work and the medina is full of galleries with a vast selection of brightly coloured paintings for sale. Most of the artists are local and self-taught. The Gnaoua Festival takes place each June/July. This annual contemporary world music festival welcomes a diverse selection of artists for four days. The vibrant festival spills out across the town with street performances.
When is the best time to visit?
Essaouira has around 320 days of sunshine per year and this small city is home to various beaches, a UNESCO listed medina and a working port, meaning visitors have plenty to explore at any time of the year. When North America and Europe start to get cold we have warm autumns and winters and these times September, October and November and February and March tend to be crowd-free.
For more informnation, visit: jardindesdouars.com
