At the northeastern tip of Morocco, lies Tamouda Bay, a coastal resort on the Alboran Sea. Hotels here enjoy a combined outlook of the rugged Rif Mountains and the golden sands of neighbouring beaches, in low-rise whitewashed buildings. This area has both Andalusian and Moorish heritage, as evidenced by the pretty architecture and cuisine offered, but as a French-speaking region, it’s also a great choice for Francophiles seeking the North African sun. It’s off the beaten track, yet just an hour from Tangier so can be combined with a city break.
Banyan Tree Tamouda Bay
Banyan Tree is known for occupying some of the choicest locations on earth, including this five-star all-pool villa resort in Tamouda Bay. Secluded and peaceful, this is a good place to come for some privacy, with accommodation options designed for romance, as well as catering to larger family groups. Guests can dine on Thai cuisine at Saffron, eat Moroccan and Eastern Mediterranean food at Tingitana, feast on seafood at the beachside Azura, or order tapas in the signature cocktail bar, Le Baga. The resort also has a tropical garden spa offering Eastern therapies, a kids’ club, a yoga pavilion, an indoor pool and a beachside infinity pool.
Sofitel Tamuda Bay Beach and Spa
Located in the M’Diq area of the bay, this Sofitel has 104 bedrooms decorated with pops of bright colour, reflecting the blues and golden hues of the local terrain. Guests can also be accommodated in a duplex villa with a private pool The low rise resort has an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a spa and an indoor children’s play area. Marche Des Saveurs is the all-day dining establishment offering Moroccan, French, Italian and Asian dishes, while So Good serves alfresco contemporary Moroccan cuisine beside the sea. And there are two bars, Koudiaz and La Voile Bleue (based on the famed St Tropez la Voile Rouge).