La Fontaine Bleue

La Fontaine Bleue is a small riad-style guesthouse in Essaouira’s medina, designed for a calm, traditional stay close to the ocean.

Photo of La Fontaine Bleue by Aurore Van Calster on Google Maps

Riad character: The interiors lean into Moroccan craftsmanship, mixing materials like stone, wood, and carved plaster for an intimate, atmospheric feel rather than a modern-hotel look.

Small, personal scale: With 7 individually styled rooms, La Fontaine Bleue suits travelers who prefer a quieter, hosted experience over a large property with lots of moving parts.

Sea-leaning rooms: Several rooms are positioned on the sea side, which can add to the sense of being tucked into the medina while still feeling connected to Essaouira’s coastline.

Terrace time: A rooftop terrace with panoramic sea views is a standout for sunrise coffee or a wind-down after exploring the lanes and ramparts nearby.

Food and hosting: The team prepares traditional Moroccan dinners on-site, and the welcome is often described as attentive and genuinely caring.

Getting around: The riad can help arrange airport transfers and excursions, which is useful if you want day trips without negotiating logistics in the medina.

What’s nearby: You’re set up for easy walks to Essaouira Beach, the medina souks, and the fishing port—ideal for beach time, browsing crafts, and seafood-focused evenings.

Trade-offs of the medina: Being inside the old town can mean narrow access and occasional ambient noise, especially around busy pedestrian lanes.

Limited facilities: As a small riad, it may not suit travelers expecting extensive on-site amenities beyond the terrace, dining, and hosted services.

Coastal weather: Sea breezes are part of the charm in Essaouira, but they can also make terrace time feel cool and windy at certain hours.

Pros	Cons
Traditional riad atmosphere with personalized hosting	Medina setting may bring access constraints and some noise
Rooftop terrace with panoramic sea views	Smaller property with fewer facilities than big hotels
Walkable to beach, souks, and fishing port	Coastal winds can affect outdoor comfort

La Fontaine Bleue in 360°