Heading to Essaouira: Win a stay at L'Heure Bleue
A place where time stands still...
A crossroads between African, European and Arabic civilisations, Essaouira is obviously a magical place, ideal for an improvised break. After three long years of renovation, L'Heure Bleue reopened its doors in 2004 under the mark Relais & Châteaux. The result is a sumptuous palace, half way between dream and reality, just like the blue hour is suspended between day and night, between the sun and the stars. Built at the end of the 19th century on a former fondouk, the riad managed revive an atmosphere of the past. The design is neither too clean nor too baroque and mixes noble materials and sumptuous fabrics. Subtle combinations of wood and straw, wood and damask, wood and leather, and wood and rattan hallow create a warm atmosphere, typical of unostentatious luxury. Relief and relaxation are guaranteed...
Three days to recharge one's batteries
What will these three days consist of? You will very likely take your breakfast in the oriental salon under a sumptuous Syrian lamp. For lunch, you will enjoy the impeccable cuisine of the young chef Sylvain Cotti between a Gaspacho with Argan oil, an Arborio Risotto of blue lobster and a pigeon pastille with almonds, not to mention the tart with peaches roasted with rosemary. At 5pm, tradition obliges, after taking in the beach or the hammam, you will be unable to resist the temptation of a drink and a cigar in the English salon. Finally at night, after a boisterous game of billiards, you will return to the illuminated patio or on the panoramic terrace ... wondering if you are not dreaming....
