Just returned from Baladin, and it was amazing - great service, lovely town and a stay there leaves you feeling totally Zen. From our limited time in Morocco, some Riad owners can be overbearing with their friendliness and advice, which maybe fine for those who don't feel very confident when visiting a new area, but can be a little too much for those who just want some peace and quiet for a few days. But Baladin gives you as much help as you need. We found the staff charming, the quaint town stunning and a world away from Marrakech. A visit to Elizer restaurant is a must!

If you aren't on a budget or if you are and feel like splurging, this Riad is not to pass over. Gorgeous rooms--the Rose room has a fireplace that the night guard started for us while we were at dinner so that it was perfect by the time we settled in for the night. Muy Romantico! Also, it's in the heart of the medina near the entrance to the ramparts where sunsets are breathtaking. Breakfast is unbelievable. Claudia and Nicole provide the warmest welcome and can even arrange camel or horse rides for you! I haven't even mentioned the beautiful rooftop terrace and jacuzzi yet, but they speak for themselves. In a word? Splurge!

We have just returned from a four day trip to Essaouira stating at Riad Baladin. Essaouira is a wonderfully relaxing and interesting destination and we can't think of a better place to stay than the Baladin. Nicole met us from the bus station with her beautiful dog, Carlito, and walked us back to the riad where she welcomed us as if we were guests in her own home. We had a lovely room, with a fire which we lit every night and enjoyed getting cosy after an hour spent in the riad's lovely candle lit hot tub. The riad is decorated in Moroccan style with a chic, elegant, minimal European twist. We would particularly recommend joining Nicole on a personalised excursion along the coast where you can eat fresh fish right by the sea in an atmospheric fisherman's shack. Nicole gave us lots of recommendations for great places to eat and things to do. We particularly liked Cafe Caravan and Elize, where the food was top notch and served in funky settings. All the staff at the riad are friendly and efficient. This is definitely a place we plan to return.

We stayed here at the beginning of January for 3 nights, and loved it. We were in the top room, on the terrace - which was gorgeous, light and airy. The whole place is very stylish; white walls, comfy cushions and antiques. There are great views from the two top terraces over the town, and you can see the sea from the top one. A great place to hang out (when it's not too windy). We really enjoyed the candle lit jacuzzi in the evening too; very relaxing. The riad itself is in the heart of the medina, close to the souks, sea and restaurants. We found a lovely vegetarian place just a couple of doors away. Nicole, the owner was great - she made us feel welcome and gave recommendations of the best places to eat, visit and watch the sun set. She spoke english (french, italian, german and swiss german) fluently. I would definately recommend this place to friends and family, and hope to return again one day.