Riad Villa Blanche

Riad Villa Blanche is nestled in lush green gardens on a gently shelving hillside just 300 metres from the broad golden sands of Agadir's sandy beaches, and 2 hours from Marrakech.

The rooms and suites are spread across two floors, and most have a balcony or terrace with a sea view. They are exceptionally spacious, with large bedrooms and bathrooms, and full of character, combining traditional Moroccan touches with contemporary style.

Each room is uniquely decorated with plush king-sized beds from Casablanca, cosy armchairs and individually-sourced antique furnishings and objets d'art, alongside high ceilings, arches and alcoves. The suites are on the upper floor and have splendid views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The restaurant offers a delicious fusion of Mediterranean and Moroccan cuisine, inspired by fresh produce from both land and sea. Seasonal specialities include aubergine blinis, sea bass from Agadir Bay and ravioli served in spicy Asian-style broth. Enjoy tasty light snacks and salads at any time of day in the elegant bar, with its velvet sofas and animal prints, on the pretty candlelit patio or in the tranquil garden.

To drink, an impressive selection of cocktails and fine spirits are on offer, as well as wines from Morocco and across Europe. You should also try the traditional mint tea (a Moroccan staple) or herbal tea made with fresh Berber herbs.

The basement is dominated by the beautiful spa, which features Moorish columns and mosaics, and has a heated swimming pool with jets, a Jacuzzi, a hammam, massage cabins and a fitness area. The soothing treatments utilise natural products such as flowers, fruits and herbs, and are inspired by the bounties of the sea too - try a seaweed peel or a marine mud massage. There is also a lovely outdoor pool with views out to the Atlantic.

For some serious shopping you can brush up on your bartering skills in some of North Africa’s largest souks, and also visit the port and La Medina, a handicraft and cultural village located just outside Agadir.

For the more active, there are boat trips and water sports such as surfing, windsurfing and jet-skiing. Other activities include camel and horse riding, trekking in the Atlas Mountains and 4x4 trips into the desert.