La Sultana Oualidia

La Sultana Oualidia is in a scenic spot by the coast in Oualidia, which is becomingly increasingly popular among those in the know as a quieter alternative to the likes of Essaouira. Its lagoon is famous for flamingos and oyster farms, and is a hotspot for surfing, with beaches that are beautiful yet free of the crowds.

Rooms at La Sultana Oualidia are beautifully designed, with a pale colour scheme reflecting the golden coastline outside and extensive use of natural materials. The wooden ceilings are made from oleander, the rugged walls from Moroccan tadelakt stone, the floors from marble and the whitewashed furniture from hand-carved wood. The unique Treehouse Suite, carved from wood and nestled in a tree facing the lagoon, will appeal to your inner child.

Taking advantage of the hotel’s seafront location, the restaurant serves up exquisite seafood dishes: specialities include sea perch cooked in a salt crust, lobster and bouillabaisse, accompanied by vegetables from the hotel's gardens. The area is also home to several oyster farms, the fruits of which can also be enjoyed at the hotel.

There’s no shortage of places to relax here. A 40-metre ionised outdoor infinity pool melts away into views of the lagoon and the ocean, and is surrounded by five seawater Jacuzzis. The beautiful spa features hammams and massage rooms where you can enjoy an Argan oil massage, as well as yet more pools and Jacuzzis - and there's a fully-equipped fitness centre should all the relaxation get too much.

Oualidia’s lagoon is something of a sanctuary for birds, with the flocks of pink flamingos who make their home here something of an icon of the area. Birdwatching safaris can be arranged from the hotel, kayaking up the lagoon with a guide and enjoying a light lunch at the salt marshes. People flock here to surf, and this is a great place for beginners to learn - the hotel was even named the world’s best hotel for surfing holidays by the Telegraph.