Atlas Essaouira & Spa

Housed in a cluster of three-story white buildings built in 2008, the Atlas Essaouira & Spa looks somewhat sterile from the outside. The grounds are neatly kept, with white stone walkways leading to lawns dotted with leafy trees and palms, and woven couches with orange cushions. Inside, the lobby's high ceilings and vast space can feel somewhat cold despite the stylish leather furnishings and interesting Moroccan touches, such as bronzed statues of musicians, colorful woven rugs, and traditional wall hangings. Hallways are somewhat warmer, with shades of orange on the walls, couches, and rugs. The three restaurants are likewise modern and sophisticated, with beige tile floors, chandeliers, and white tablecloths set against leather armchairs in cream, orange, or red, and paintings of Moroccan cityscapes. Guests can take in the sunset on the terrace, which has a traditional clay oven for decoration. The pool is large and has a simple wooden deck lined with basic dark gray lounge chairs. Guests tend to be tourists keen on kite surfing at the beach or exploring the medina, and include families and couples. 

The hotel is across the road from a peaceful stretch of private beach in Essaouira, a windy city just over two hours' drive from Marrakesh. There are several restaurants located on the beach that serve fresh seafood and cold beer. Camel and horse rides are available on the beach, but their wrangles can be aggressive and downright rude. The old medina and the ancient Port d'Essaouira are about a 20-minute walk away. Small grocery shops are within walking distance, as well. Essaouira Mogador Airport is about 15 to 20 minutes away. An airport shuttle from the hotel is available, as are car rentals. 

Standard guest rooms are decorated in soothing shades of beige and gray with pale-blue accents and cream-colored tile floors. The plush gray headboards are a nice touch, as is the brown pattern painted across the bathroom tile. All rooms are air-conditioned and have sitting areas, minibars, TVs, and safes. Bathrooms are mostly beige with shower/tub combos. Deluxe Double Rooms have a bit more space, while some Sea View Doubles come with balconies. Some guests have noted that Sea View rooms don't always look directly onto the beach; furthermore, the free daily hour of spa time included with Sea View rooms only allows use of the small heated pool, not treatments or the hammam. Some minor wear and tear has been noted in some rooms, along with a lack of soundproofing. The Wi-Fi signal is weak to non-existent in many of the rooms. 

The large pool is surrounded by plenty of sun loungers, and poolside drinks and snacks are available. Guests can also relax on the couches that dot the grounds. The full-service spa includes luxe, darkly decorated treatment rooms, a hammam, whirlpool, and a small heated pool; the small curtained-off rooms for post-treatment relaxation are a nice touch. Guests can dine on international cuisine at Les Alizes, while Le Safran serves a la carte Moroccan dishes. The Seven restaurant on the beach focuses on local seafood. A narrow terrace bar with leather furniture offers beach views and makes excellent mojitos with locally grown mint. Free olives are served with drinks. The fitness center is small but clean and bright, with several cardio and weight machines, and wood floors. A simple, modern meeting room with gray and brown decor is available. Wi-Fi is free, but the signal is weak. Guests have the best luck for speed in the lobby.