Dar Ness

For the price, Dar Ness Riad is incredible value, with a warm and welcoming feel. It’s right in the heart of Essaouiraaa, close to everything you might want to explore. The rooftop has some nice views, but feels neglected and could use a clean and freshening up. Music from nearby can also get quite loud in the evenings, which may be an issue if you want to call it a day. I’d definitely recommend it.

The location is fantastic, and I hope this review helps the owners and staff make the most of the property, because there’s a lot to improve. On arrival, the stairway smelled strongly of cat and urine. There was dust on every lamp, old underwear in the upstairs seating area, and bird droppings across the terrace seating. The seats and cushions looked like they’d been dragged out of the ocean. In our room, a curtain had bird droppings on it, a dusty vase held an old toothpick, and there was mould in the bathroom. The room curtains don’t fit the door, so privacy is limited. The shower is fixed halfway down the wall, making it needlessly hard to use. Our light flickered constantly, and the lighting was so poor it was difficult to see. The front door to the road was rarely locked, and the front desk was often unattended, which reduced security. The staff seemed nice enough, but uninterested in their jobs given the state of the building. Much of the time I saw the men watching football on their phones or playing on a Playstation. Still, the hosts and cleaners were all very polite when I spoke with them.

We booked in February, but a few days before our August arrival they cancelled the booking. They refused to cancel through the operator, so we had to request free cancellation ourselves to get our money back. As a result, the operator charged us their fees.

The included breakfast was phenomenal, and the location was really good, close to the square but tucked away enough to feel more peaceful than some other hotels and riads. The staff were very friendly and helpful, and speak multiple languages, so tourists shouldn’t hesitate to book. Great place, and I’d be happy to stay there again if I return to the city.