Heure Bleue Palais review: our verdict
There are the small riads of the medina, and then there is Heure Bleue: a characterful building situated at the entrance to the old town, five minutes' walk from the ramparts and the ocean. It impresses from the threshold, and the rooms prioritise comfort, with fireplaces, small living rooms, and very carefully crafted decoration. Distinguished by a Michelin Key in 2026 and a member of Relais & Châteaux, the hotel clearly aims for the top end of the market.
The dining room is among the best in Essaouira, and lunch has its admirers. The team, led by a very present director, is attentive to every detail, even bringing the room earlier when possible. It is the address for a romantic getaway or a family night, with the medina within walking distance and calmness upon returning. It is not the place for a budget stay or remote work: wifi has been lacking for some guests, and rates are high, even if they match the services offered.
The pitfall: arriving by car without prior notice; parking is on the street, outside the ramparts, behind a simple chain, and you must call a quarter of an hour in advance for someone to come open the gate and carry luggage in a horse-drawn cart. The good tip: a lunch on the premises to taste the house.
