Riad Perle d'Eau

On condition that you have a room with a sea view you will be delighted by this Riad. Our suite on the top floor had two large windows looking out to sea. Ever changing, sight and sound that dominated our lives for the 2 days spent here. If you do not have a sea view I think this Riad could be a little disappointing. Our suite was spacious, the bed large and comfortable with a 3 piece suite. The bathroom didn’t have a proper shower - large bath with shower over. With the water shortages in Morocco no one should be running a bath especially a large corner one. The shower bracket was broken and so the shower head had to be held while showering. We got a small electric shock from the top of the bathroom light switch. Once we knew we just made sure to hit the middle of the switch, but these details should be sorted. Reception staff were helpful and recommended an excellent restaurant, provided a map and a description of what to see in town. Had a superb hammam and massage , staff were lovely. Breakfast was a bit limited. We stayed in 9 different roads during our 2 week stay in Morocco. Our travel agent had informed all of them of my gluten intolerance, but this was the only one to not offer me something else at breakfast - other than a rice cracker. Considering 7 of the riads were in the desert this was disappointing that the perle d’eau could not so as well. On the second day there was not even yoghurt. Even for my husband the breakfast was nothing special. This was also the only Riad to not be able to provide us with an espresso despite there being a Nespresso machine on the counter - no capsules. On our last evening power and internet went out in the bedrooms and there was no internet still when we left the next day at 11h. The terrace was lovely. This Riad could easily be better with a bit more love and attention to detail. Surprising when one reads the owner is Swiss.

Absolutely dreadful experience staying here. The rooms and facilities do not match any of the pictures online it is dirty and the whole riad requires significant work. There is no spa/restaurant/bar and the cleaning of the rooms was inconsistent. Worst of all the male receptionist was rude and agressive to us and showed none of the Moroccan hospitality we are used to.

Lovely riad with exceptionally helpful staff. One of the two buildings is part of the sea wall, so there are incredible views from the terrace and some rooms. Breakfast is delicious, and the hotel sells a small range of wines and beers at reasonable prices. Don't expect aircon etc as this is a traditional riad, but the rooms are comfortable and spacious. Super friendly and helpful staff.

Stunning sea view. Warm and professional staff. Owner on premises. Room cleaned everyday. Tastiest moroccan breakfast every morning on rooftop. The staff even arranged for a horse ride for us. Can't say enough great things about this place. Perfectly located in the medina. Our bedroom window opened to the sea view. Money well spent. Definitely 5 stars.

Sadly our stay here is over. Superlatives cannot do it justice. It feels like home and family if home were perched thrillingly above the Atlantic waves. Essaouira is lovely and it is interesting to explore but sitting in our room watching the ocean was the best. The bed, linen and towels, robes, furnishings are outstanding. The room is more than tastefully decorated, there is an inspired talent here. The staff are commiserate with the property, that is welcoming, friendly, helpful, genuine. I regret planning our Morocco visit for anywhere other than here.

My husband and I had the best of times at the Perle d'eau. We received the best of reception from the staff and every care was taken to make sure we were comfortable and happy. The owner Ernest is a very talented artist and it shows in the way he has renovated his Riad. The attention to detail in the design would be hard to beat and he has used top craftsmen to decorate and tile. Our bedroom overlooked the sea at close range so the sound of waves and the spectacular view was awe inspiring. If you shut the windows it cuts out the sound. The bedroom was beautifully furnished and comfortable and warm (we visited in February). Breakfast on the upper Balcony was delicious and of course the view from there is magnificent. We had a very good massage which I am still feeling the benefits from. We were given plenty of good advice as to where to eat. All in all a brilliant place to stay.