Villa Gonatouki

Villa Gonatouki is a two-floor, red-sandstone villa surrounded by large patches of grassy lawns and rustic, dusty pathways, with views of semi-arid countryside and the sea in the distance. The interiors feature marble floors, white-washed stucco walls, suspended glass lanterns, and traditional wooden ceilings and doors, plus lots of quintessentially Moroccan arched domes and windows. Seating areas are spread across a number of salons filled with colorful, low seating and nooks featuring lovely African art objects. There are also a few small courtyards within the property with open centerpieces featuring plants and trees. The hotel attracts vacationing couples and families alike, and the entire property can be rented out for parties, weddings, and other events for groups. At just 10 rooms, the vibe is intimate, enhanced by the helpful on-site owner who frequently interacts with guests.

The hotel is located just outside the city of Essoauira, down a long dirt road and a 10-minute drive from the airport. The surrounding area is rural, so there's not much within walking distance. The city center requires a 20-minute drive (25 minutes to the Essaouira Citadel), where there are numerous restaurants and sights. 

Villa Gonatouki offers 10 rooms in total, all with traditional decor featuring lots of marble, arched doors and windows, and local handicrafts. The smallest (Comfort Rooms) on the ground floor measure 15 to 20 square meters (162 to 215 square feet) and feature double beds and simple bathrooms with showers and tubs, but they may be a little dark for some guests. Second-floor Superior Rooms are slightly larger at around 25 square meters (270 square feet) and come with double beds and the option of extra beds for a small fee; these also have large arched windows and doorways, as well as terraces with lovely views out on the property. Big marble bathrooms with double vanities are a lovely extra touch. 

Ground-floor Small Suites have sofas that can be converted into two small beds for kids (for a fee) and a west-facing garden. A lovely, 30-square-meter (333-square-foot) Grand Suite has traditional wooden ceilings, a marble fireplace, and a huge terrace with views out to the sea. Bathrobes, slippers, hairdryers, and toiletries are provided, but some rooms lack TVs and coffee- and tea-making facilities. Travelers also have the option of renting out the entire villa (sleeps 29), or the entire villa except for the Grand Suite (sleeps 20). 

Features at Villa Gonatouki focus on recreation and relaxation. The two pools include a main pool with small children's section and a longer infinity pool that's ideal for swimming laps. Both have a handful of cushioned loungers and umbrellas. There's an on-site hammam (Turkish bath), along with treatments including massages, scrubs, facials, and manicures. A simple but yummy breakfast is included in room rates, while lunch and dinner can be arranged for a fee, with vegetarian options available. The property is available for weddings and other events. They can also arrange for horseback riding trips, water sports, fishing expeditions, golfing, and dune buggy rentals. Parking is free and abundant and shuttle service to Essaouira, Sidi Kaouki, and to the airport are available for a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.