We stayed here for 4 nights on our honeymoon and couldn't have made a better choice. Our room was absolutely gorgeous and we ended every day in front of a roaring fire in the fireplace of our bedroom. Nothing was too much trouble for the staff. I had a very bad cough and so my husband asked for directions to a chemist. The owner pointed out that nothing was open in the medina so he went off on his motorbike to a chemist out of town and brought me back medicine. Every effort was made to make our stay magical. Don't hesitate to book a stay here - we'll definitely return. And, be sure to try the freshly squeezed orange juice and croissants for breakfast!

To tell that Riad Chbanate is paradise would be far from the truth - it is unique. The staff is charming and very helpful, the restaurant and the garden enchanting and quiet, and the service like a “liaison d’amour”. Our Suite Mauresque on top of the roof was just a dream. The Hotel is located in the quiet corner of Essaouira so you don't get irritated by the inrush of tourists near Place Moulay Hassan or at the center. Whether you need contact to shopkeepers or a traditional hammam (not the touristic one), special assistance for special trips, or any kind of help - you will get it. We spent two weeks at christmas/new year and we wished it was more. Take your time and let Samira, Naouel, Gregy, Halima, Sharifa, Hassaina, and Jean take care for you. You will enjoy it. Bettina and Claus (Basel/Switzerland)

We absolutely loved this Riad.

It is easy to find, the building is beautiful, the atmosphere is great, the food is delicious, the staff are really friendly and know exactly what they are doing. The recommendations we got for dining and visiting were absolutely spot on. This Riad was certainly our favourite place in Essaouira.

All that marks this riad from the outside in the narrow medina street is the front door and its sign but stepping inside you find yourself in a charming entrance hall and courtyard. The staff and management were most welcoming - I particularly appreciated the complementary beer after an 11-hour journey! My room, Suite Berbere, on the second floor was quiet, well-appointed and spacious and, although it did not have a view, it did have exterior windows, unlike some rooms in other riads. There was great attention to detail, for example, on arrival, my bathroom was strewn with rose petals. Breakfast was a treat, with freshly-squeezed orange juice and fresh breads. All staff were most attentive and helpful. All the main sights of the town were in easy walking distance, as were the bus station and taxi/car park.