A luxury hotel with that extra bit of class in Essaouira. The elegant and colonial style Heure Bleu is not your ordinary old Riad or Dar. What you get here is an accommodation of palatial proportions offering five star comforts and one of the most prestigious addresses in Essaouira.

Like the town itself, it is very much cosmopolitan and takes in influences from all around the world. Suites decorated in the pastel and blue tones of Portugal, English colonial, French, Eastern and, of course, Moroccan. This was not always the case. Having been built in the 19th century, for many years the "Blue Hour" fell into picturesque disrepair until it underwent an extensive restoration in 2000 - and the results are there for all to see.

This major undertaking mobilised much of the area itself. Regional artisans and materials were called for – tiles from Fez, terracotta from Méknes, “passementerie” from Rabat. To this, one can add latest technologies and comforts (elevator, air conditioning, Internet connection in every room and Turkish baths). Then, of course there are other intangibles, not least of which the 360º panoramic views over the historical Medina and port and shade patio.