Traditional Riad

Alive with the Sound of the Waves

This traditional riad in the ancient, whitewashed medina of Asilah is built around an open central courtyard and a sculpted fountain. The tallest of the buildings looking over the ocean, it boasts exceptional views of the water, and of the old town behind it. It also has an in-house hammam that fits six people - a rare find in Asilah. If you are looking for villas to rent in Morocco, why not try something that gives you a real feel for the color and history of the country?

This lovely riad in the old town of Asilah has the feel of a dreamy palace. A traditional building tastefully brought up to date, it offers the best of the old world and the luxury of the new. And it's located between the ocean and the town, with beautiful vistas of both from its rooms and its stunning rooftop terrace.

We love its open-plan feel, with tiled staircases, archways and flowing curtains dividing up all the spaces. The attention to traditional detail is exceptional, with colorful hand-cut tiles, tall antique wooden doors, and handcrafted furniture. Located on the ocean, it is alive with the sound of the waves, and birds flutter through its communal spaces.

The house is divided into sections by floor. The ground is the living room and Moroccan-style bar, with a large dining room table. The first floor is the guest floor, with a communal living area and two guest rooms (with shared Moroccan stucco bathroom). The second floor houses the master bedroom suite - a living room, bedroom, and en-suite bathroom with an original hammam that fits six. 

The top floor of the house is the terrace, with its gorgeous blue-washed floor, large carpet, table, and traditional banquet seating. It's easy to imagine spending all day (and night) up here - watching the sun-kissed days fade into lively Moroccan evenings, the smells of cooking and the sound of music wafting upwards. There's even a double bed for sleeping under the stars at night. 

A real gem among villas to rent in Morocco.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Four hours of housekeeping per day is included. There is a laundry facility. A Moroccan cook is available on request (at extra cost) and recommended to complete the authentic local experience. There is no TV or radio. No cars are allowed in the medina.

AROUND

Asilah is a fishing village first and foremost, but is also known as an artists' enclave (and has an arts festival each summer). One of the only two whitewashed medinas in the country, it is smaller and easier to get to know than the larger cities, but large enough to provide plenty of variety.

Guests are encouraged to shop in the souk for locally-farmed fruit and vegetables, mint and exotic spices. There is also a daily fish market in the port. The town has a great selection of restaurants, and there are plenty of small stores, with owners willing to while away the day talking.

Taxis are inexpensive, and can be booked for excursions to the beaches, the Rif mountains, Tangier and other destinations.

LOCATION

Asilah, Morocco. Nearest airport: Tangiers International (27km).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: June to end of October