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Riad · Essaouira · Marrakesh–Safi

Riad Dar Maya

A traditional riad in the heart of Essaouira's Old Medina, praised for its rooftop terrace, spa facilities, and attentive staff.

  • Rooftop terrace with hot tub and sun loungers
  • Spa & wellness centre with Turkish bath and massage
  • In the Old Medina, near Bab Doukkala and the ramparts
8.9 Great 819 reviews Booking.com 8.9 · 819 reviews

About

Riad Dar Maya

Riad Dar Maya sits within the Old Medina of Essaouira, a short walk from the imposing 18th-century Bab Doukkala gate and the ramparts with ocean views. The riad combines traditional style with modern comforts, offering well-appointed rooms, a restaurant serving special diet menus, and a range of spa treatments.

Guests can unwind on the sun terrace with a hot tub, enjoy a Turkish bath or massage, or explore the coast with activities like windsurfing, horseback riding, and cycling. The 24-hour reception, currency exchange, and car hire make it easy to plan your stay, while the paid airport shuttle connects to Essaouira airport, 20 km away.

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Internet access
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed

In brief

What works, what to weigh

+

Strengths

4 reasons to book
  • Rooftop terrace with hot tub — Guests repeatedly highlight the rooftop as a highlight, perfect for sunsets and relaxing after walks.
  • Attentive and warm staff — Multiple reviews praise the staff for being kind, friendly, and helpful, arranging transport and restaurant reservations.
  • Central Old Medina location — Easy access to restaurants, shops, and landmarks like Bab Doukkala and the ramparts.
  • Extensive spa and wellness facilities — A full spa centre with Turkish bath, sauna, jacuzzi, and massage treatments, plus a hammam and steam room.

Worth weighing

4 to weigh
  • Paid airport shuttle only — The airport is 20 km away, and the shuttle is an extra cost.
  • No pets allowed — Guests cannot bring their own pets, despite the owners' dog on-site.
  • Check-in window is limited — Check-in is only possible between 14:00 and 23:30, which may be inconvenient for late arrivals.
  • No on-site parking — The riad offers parking as an amenity, but it's likely limited or off-site given the Old Medina location.

01 — Rooms

Rooms & rates

High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.

Suite

  • 1 King-size bed

02 — Amenities

Services & amenities

Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Internet access
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Currency exchange
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access
  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Food & Drink

  • Restaurant
  • Special diet menus
  • In-room breakfast
  • Children's menu
  • BBQ facilities

Wellness

  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Sauna
  • Turkish bath
  • Steam room
  • Jacuzzi
  • Massage
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room

Outdoor & Activities

  • Terrace
  • Sun terrace
  • Sun loungers
  • Beach access
  • Garden furniture
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Horseback riding
  • Wind surfing
  • Golf course
  • Fishing
  • Game room

Room Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Ironing facilities
  • Free toiletries
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Family

  • Cots
  • Babysitting/Child services

03 — Reviews

What guests say

Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.

8.9
Great 819 reviews

Guest-rated 8.9/10 from 819 reviews

Booking.com · 8.9 · 819 reviews
8.9Verified guest

“The Tignna Suite was bright and airy, with big windows and a lovely balcony overlooking the courtyard—great for relaxing. Breakfast on the rooftop included fresh fruit and pastries.”

8.9Verified guest

“I had a very enjoyable one-night stay. The location was convenient, close to great restaurants and shops. I was glad to be near Tara Cafe for pastries on a cold day.”

8.9Verified guest

“Breakfasts were delicious, and the owners have a sweet dog named Eddie who sometimes visited the riad—I still miss him! The staff were very kind and friendly. We also liked the bathrooms in both rooms we rented. I'd love to go back.”

8.9Verified guest

“Everything was great, no complaints. I'd recommend it—great value, well-appointed room, and exceptionally kind staff.”

8.9Verified guest

“Riad Dar Maya was a great find! The Tignna Suite was bright with big windows and a lovely balcony over a beautiful communal sitting area. The rooftop terrace was perfect for sun and a lavish breakfast of fresh fruit, pastries, and Moroccan dishes. Youssef and Tariq made us feel at home and arranged transport and restaurant bookings effortlessly.”

8.9Verified guest

“Staying with my teens was easy! The heated rooftop plunge pool was a hit, and we loved breakfast up there with views over the white minarets. Gareth and his team were warm.”

04 — Location

Getting around Essaouira

The property sits in Essaouira.

Old Medina: Stay within the historic walls, where the riad is located. Explore the 18th-century gates like Bab Doukkala and walk the ramparts for ocean views.

Essaouira Airport: About 20 km away, the airport is reachable via the riad's paid shuttle service or car hire.

33, Rue Oujda, Essaouira, Marrakesh–Safi, 44000, Morocco

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05 — Good to know

Policies & conditions

Hotel details are shown for reference. Final rate terms are confirmed on the partner’s site at booking.

Check-in
From 14:00-23:30
Check-out
By 12:00
Cancellation
Free cancellation on many rates — terms on booking page
Payment
Pay-at-hotel available on many rates; final terms at booking
Pets
Not allowed

06 — Questions

Frequently asked

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in is from 14:00 to 23:30, and check-out is by 12:00.

Is parking available?

The riad lists parking as an amenity, though availability may be limited given its location in the Old Medina.

Can I bring my pet?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How can I get to the riad from the airport?

Essaouira airport is about 20 km away. The riad offers a paid airport shuttle service, and car hire is also available.

Is there a spa on-site?

Yes, the riad has a spa and wellness centre with a Turkish bath, sauna, jacuzzi, massage, and beauty treatments.

The bottom line

A well-reviewed riad in the heart of the Old Medina, offering a genuine Moroccan experience with a standout rooftop and spa. Ideal for travellers seeking a relaxing base with easy access to the city's sights and beach activities.

8.9Based on 819 guest reviews and an 8.9 rating

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