Paradis Plage is a luxury eco-resort in Morocco offering a peaceful setting for those wanting to escape the daily stresses of life. Ideal for those looking for an active beach and spa holiday, the resort combines ocean-facing yoga classes with water sports and a pampering spa to follow the philosophy of the resort in finding the perfect balance of body and mind.
Its privileged location on the southern coast of Morocco boasts 340 days of sunshine a year, making it a fantastic year-round destination without the long-haul travel. Located north of Agadir in the small town of Immi Ouaddar, the resort is a 20-minute drive from the city and a 10-minute drive to the famous surfer's village of Taghazout. The airport is a 45-minute drive away from the resort with regular flights from London Gatwick and Stansted 6 times a week and Manchester 3 times a week.
The Hotel
The resort is beautifully decorated with lush greenery and colourful flowers and as I wandered through the cobbled paths, I immediately felt any tensions I had leave my mind and body. There’s a very chilled ambience with a mix of yogis, surfers and families around and plenty of space to relax. Ideally positioned next to a 5km beach, there’s a private beach area for hotel guests with plenty of sunbeds as well as a swimming pool and separate children’s pool. One of my favourite parts of the resort was the zen garden with hammocks, day beds and a hot tub where I could curl up and read my book. In the evenings, there was a bonfire by the Surf House which had a sociable vibe and was a great way to meet other guests.
The resort's location is quite isolated so there are just a few restaurants and a local supermarket within walking distance, so during my stay, the friendly reception team were able to help me arrange a taxi for a visit to Taghazout Village and Agadir. In Agadir, the main languages spoken are French and Berber and while everybody had great levels of English at the resort, my French language skills came in useful when visiting the souks so I recommend learning a few basic phrases for your holiday. There’s also an ATM on site which was helpful as most shops and restaurants in Morocco only accept cash, although the hotel does accept card.
Rooms
I stayed in a premium suite which was spacious with a large separate living area, kitchenette and lovely views of the sea and beautiful sunsets, from the two balconies. Having so much space really made it feel like a home away from home. Its tranquil setting made it a perfect spot to unwind although this might not suit those wanting to be in the midst of the action.
The 107 suites, beach bungalows and prestige villas all offer balconies and the majority offer sea views so I recommend speaking to your travel specialist if this is something you’d like to guarantee.
The Wellness Facilities
Paradis Plage offers a wealth of facilities for those looking for an active beach holiday in the sun. The resort also has its own surf school which offers surf and SUP lessons where I had my first surf lesson guided by the friendly staff. The instructors found a good spot with some smaller waves for me and a group of 5 other beginners where we were able to practice paddling out and returning to shore. For more advanced surfers, surf guiding is available where the instructors will take, and sometimes drive, you to the best spots for your abilities.
An ocean-facing Yoga Shala offers thrice daily yoga classes, 6 days a week, with a mix of Vinyasa and Yin yoga led by Karsten, the resident yoga teacher. One of the highlights of my stay was attending the sunset yoga class with the sliding doors open to let in the sound of the waves; complemented by the stunning views of the sun setting into the ocean, this really emphasised the practice and left me feeling inspired and relaxed. Another yogi spoke to told me that she had come to Paradis Plage especially to do the yoga classes with Karsten after hearing about his wonderful classes.
All guests have complimentary attendance to two classes a day including power pump, bootcamp, Pilates and cross-training. There’s also an outdoor cross-training gym where you can also book private sessions with Abdullah.
For relaxation, the spa offers a peaceful setting with a range of traditional Moroccan rituals and treatments; I had the surf wave massage which was perfect for easing out my muscles after my energetic surf lesson. I also had a very relaxing massage with orange blossom which started off with a gentle foot massage, full body massage, and head massage – heaven! Of course, I couldn’t leave Morocco without booking myself in for a traditional Moroccan hammam where I was washed, exfoliated and creamed and left with the softest skin.
Dining
I visited in mid-season so I was able to choose between Le 27 which serves traditional Moroccan dishes and international cuisine, and Le Chiringuito & Beach Bar which served delicious fresh fish according to the daily catch, salads and international dishes. As I had booked the half board option, I was given credit to use in the restaurants which normally allowed me to have a starter and main or main and dessert each evening.
The breakfast buffet is a casual but delicious affair served by the pool with a range of healthy and hot options including freshly made crepes and omelettes, yoghurts, fruits, meats, cheeses and cereals.
Who's it for?
Paradis Plage is ideal for solo travellers, couples, friends and families alike looking for an active beach holiday combined with relaxation as there's plenty to do to keep everybody entertained. If you’re looking to be in a more vibrant resort, then Paradis Plage might not be the one for you.
Find out more about Paradis Plage here or call to speak to one of our specialists on +44(0) 203 886 0082