Occupying an imposing white stone building in the ancient Moroccan port of Essaouira, L'Heure Bleue Palais offers an elegant cocktail of modern and traditional hospitality. The 4 star hotel combines the charms of a Riad with contemporary facilities such as decent plumbing and wireless internet.

The central courtyard is overlooked by several storeys of elegant colonnades, and is a symphony of palm trees, scented flowers, a magnificent fountain and intricate tiling. Originally a sumptuous private palace, it became an orphanage before being completely abandoned. A major renovation project brought the palace back to life in 2003, keeping all the architectural features intact and installing 21^st century amenities. The resulting hotel is part of the Relais & Chateaux group.

L’Heure Bleue Palais is literally embedded in the structure of Essaouira, forming a part of its ancient city walls. The interior decoration is a combination of styles, mixing traditional Moroccan materials with plush English and French colonial style furniture and fabrics. The bar and billiard room have a dark, gentlemen’s club atmosphere, and the whole building is filled with dark wood, low lighting, sumptuous cushions and deep pile carpets.  Bedrooms have heavy wooden shutters and elegant furnishings in understated style and comfort.

There are 33 rooms and suites, all of which have glamorous marble bathrooms. There is Wifi access in the common areas and a swimming pool on the roof. A wide range of mouthwatering dishes are served up in the four different hotel restaurants which include the romantic courtyard patio, and the breathtaking rooftop terrace.

Spending time at L’Heure Bleue is all about indulgence and relaxation, so the hotel spa is an essential part of the experience. The massage booth is perched on the roof with panoramic views over Essaouira, steaming, cleansing and exfoliation is available in the Hammam room, and the   restorative facial treatments use natural Moroccan ingredients.

There is lots to do in the old fishing port of Essaouira, including exploring the twisting lanes of the souks, enjoying the long sandy beach golf and playing golf on the newly opened Mogador course. The strong breeze makes it ideal for windsurfing and kite surfing – both major local activities.

L'heure Bleue Palais' website: http://www.heure-bleue.com/en/index.php