West of Marrakech in the Atlantic port town of Essaouira, the Hotel L’Heure Bleue Palais offers a sumptuous lodging address for those in search of luxury and authentic ambience. A member of the exclusive Relais & Chateaux portfolio of fine hotels, the property occupies a stunning location edging the city’s ancient Medina, recognized in 2001 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel itself has a colorful history. Once the private palace of Caïd Mbark Saïdi, Pasha of Mogador, each floor of the 19th-century riad was the private quarters of one of the pasha’s four wives.

The palace and its rooftop terrace were reimagined in 2004 as a luxury hotel, with pillared corridors surrounding a lush interior courtyard garden replete with fountain, slender palm trees and plenty of Moroccan sunlight. Four separate design styles define the 33 guestrooms and suites, with African, Portuguese, Moorish or British furnishings and décor.

A personalized welcome greets guests upon arrival, and amenities include complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel, around-the-clock concierge services, private transfers, spa treatments and a hammam. Moorish cuisine is served up in the Salon Oriental, and room service is available. Guests can also enjoy afternoon tea, cocktails by the fire or light tapas in Salon Anglais. Entertainment and activities include a home cinema, billiard room, heated pool and cooking classes. Hotel staff can also arrange for guided tours of the city and surrounding areas. A short stroll to the waterfront brings guests to a selection of art galleries and cafés.