A quick ten-minutes from town, this luxury villa in Morocco offers respite from the hustle and bustle of Essaouira. We love the openness, the well-framed views from within, and the palpable enthusiasm of the owners for art and design. Composed of clean lines, broad horizontal strokes, and pops of color, it's is imbued with a savoir-vivre that the owners are happy to share.

Designed by architect Stephan Boeri, this villa comes into view like a shimmering mirage in the outskirts of the beautiful port city of Essaouira. Sweeping open-plan spaces enclose a twenty-meter lap pool that appears to dress the arid landscape like an art installation in nature.

The villa is sleek and sexy, yet delightfully approachable. A combination of cool whites and raw textures with injections of color from local hand-woven textiles and playful iconic mid-century furniture create a feeling of friendliness. Oversized photographs adorn the walls, inviting us to travel and stop for beauty.

Each of the three spacious rooms are light-filled, fitted with large windows that invite the viewer to enjoy the best angles of the villa’s private terraces, the pool, and its surrounding gardens. The Balinese-style bathroom is particularly enjoyable with its rock basins and long bath that opens up to the garden. 

Spaces are divided into nooks for relaxation: Two living areas with wide and deep sofas are separated by a little indoor tropical garden, sun loungers let you soak up the sun without leaving the pool, and a cushy cluster of Paulin’s Groovy armchairs await sunset cocktails. The fully equipped convivial kitchen island never leaves the chef to labor alone. 

Should you decide to visit during the chillier months, an elegant fireplace awaits to keep you warm, and an integrated barbecue pit allows for some warm feasting in the open. Though whoever needs an excuse for a poolside barbecue?

MOROCCO'S ENCHANTING PORT TOWN

Essaouira is an enchanting port city on the southern coast of Morocco caught in a tempestuous love affair with the Alizé trade winds. Known historically as the Port of Timbuktu, this blustery city of screaming seagulls, European-style forts, and colorful fishing boats feels intriguing and romantic. 

Its spice-infused 18th-century medina has a lovely creative vibe, and its seaside is dotted with windsurfers. Don't miss the fish market with chatty fishmongers eager to prepare you a feast of their daily catch.

LOCATION

Essaouira, Morocco. Transfers can be arranged to and from Marrakech, which is approximately two and a half hours drive away. There is a small airport five miles from the town that has regular flights to and from Paris-Orly and Casablanca.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring and Fall with September through December for ideal weather. But the coastal city is pleasant for most of the year with occasional windy and hot conditions.