Baoussala

Make a Booking Enquiry

Availability Calendar

Save as Favourite

Children's Policy

Map

Essaouira, Morocco

A home with a big heart, hidden away in a eucalyptus grove near Essaouira - a genuine taste of that fabled real Morocco

Reviewed by Guy Hunter-Watts

Baoussala, Morocco, Overview

BAOUSSALA - REVIEW

Head south from Essaouira towards the surfing beaches of Sidi Kaouki, then cut seawards along a dusty track past errant donkeys, tiny farmsteads and waving children. Arriving at Baoussala will become a treasured memory, as will meeting Dominique and her extended Moroccan family.

You’d never guess the pinky-salmon, crenellated walls of this kasbah-inspired building are less than a decade old. Antique window grilles, mature trees and a walled garden with rambling jasmines, roses and bougainvilleas suggest a much older building - enhanced when you step into its embracing, inner courtyard. The 6 bedrooms and suites aren’t grand but have been decorated with masses of TLC by Dominique whose artistic, gentle touch permeates every corner. This delightful guesthouse has the feel of home and sanctum, with an accent on authenticity and simplicity. Come to make new Moroccan friends, eat wholesome food, walk barefoot through dunes, hear Gnaoua music and enjoy being a long way away from the mundane.

HIGHS

Dominique is one of the few ex-pats we met living in Morocco who treats her staff as if they were family
Masses of intimate sitting areas in the courtyard and gardens
Exceptional cooking of the slow variety, with a genuine commitment to using only fresh, local produce
The 6 bedrooms and suites are quiet and comfortable
Virtually all electricity and hot water is solar-generated
Music is a part of this spirit - impromptu concerts by local musicians in the sheltered courtyard often occur

LOWS

You're not quite on the beach, which is 5km away through the dunes, nor in Essaouira, which is 15km away - but the rural setting is magically tranquil
The house is a little shabby in places, though that's part of the wholesome feel
The 3km track leading to the house is bumpy and would be an ordeal after rain
The remoteness of Baoussala means that you will eat in house, but the food is really excellent and fairly priced, too
Not for the animal-shy, as Dominique’s dog and cat are an integral part of the scene

Print Whole Report

Name	Baoussala	Location	Essaouira, Atlantic Coast
Type	Rural Guesthouse: 6 rooms	Country	Morocco
Price Guide	Dbl: €60-85, BB	Open	All year


DISTANCES	Airport: 180km	Nearest Shops: 3km	Nearest restaurant: 3km	Beach: 6km