Hôtel Sofitel Agadir Thalassa Sea & Spa

From the outside, the hotel's whitewashed exteriors and towering wood panel archways make a grand, palatial first impression. That, combined with the hotel's recognizable name brand help make this one of Agadir's most popular choices. The interiors have been designed with a modern sensitivity, while still allowing for traditional Moroccan elements such as Arabic lamps and seating areas. The lobby has a (slightly dark) monochrome color scheme, and a large silver water feature takes center stage in the atrium. Refreshments in the waiting area are a nice touch. Quirky modern art pieces are scattered around the property, and there's a photography gallery off the lobby. The atmosphere is relaxed yet formal, with many guests congregating around the large outdoor pools, chilling on the cozy cabanas and modern curved daybeds. The smart, modern vibe attracts a lot of couples and business travelers, but families also stay here, especially during the school holidays. 

The hotel is located on a quiet beach at the southern end of Agadir's beach promenade. The city center is around a 25-minute walk from the hotel, and many guests walk along the promenade to the port, passing shops and restaurants along the way. The hotel is near several excellent golf courses, including the Golf Clud Med Les Dunes, which is a 10- to 15-minute drive from the hotel. For shopping, the Souk El-Had market and Agadir Kasbah are around a 10-minute drive from the hotel, while the Casino Le Mirage is five minutes away by car. The sister Sofitel is next door, where guests can use the restaurants and facilities. Agadir Al Massira International Airport is a 35-minute drive from the hotel. 

The hotel has 173 rooms with modern decor and minimalist furnishings, though most are on the small side (especially the Deluxe Room that we visited). Rooms have granite tile floors, all-white walls, and dark-wood furnishings. Dark muted tones are softened with flowing cream drapes, and brightened up with patterned accents like striped rugs and bed runners. Expect modern amenities like air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, phones, safes, electric kettles, and free Wi-Fi. Robes, slippers, and free bottled water are nice extras, and Club Rooms add butler service and extra living space. Higher-category rooms also include proper coffee makers. All rooms have furnished balconies, some with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Modern, black-tiled bathrooms have stone vessel sinks, magnifying mirrors, designer toiletries, separate toilets, and walk-in rainfall showers -- though they have glass panels through to the bedroom in many rooms, lacking privacy. 

The hotel's facilities are geared toward relaxation. The private stretch of sandy beach is scattered with daybeds and sun loungers, making it a prime spot for catching a tan. For more active guests, there are water sports like Jet Skiing and boat excursions. The two heated outdoor swimming pools are surrounded by cozy cabanas, and there's a poolside bar serving cold beers and cocktails. The hotel has a thalassotherapy spa with an indoor pool, hot tub, hammam (Turkish steam bath), and massage treatments. Keep in mind that there is no sauna and the hammam costs extra, which is surprising considering the hotel's expensive rates.

Three sophisticated restaurants offer international cuisines and alfresco dining. L'Atlantique serves fresh seafood and hot and cold snacks for lunch and dinner; Le Market offers themed meals and healthy options; Le Palais Du Jardin provides gourmet dining and fine wines in an elegant setting. The breakfast buffet gets good reviews, but it's an expensive extra. Guests can also unwind at the hotel's chic lounge bar, which has a terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. 

Other facilities include a (small) fitness center with cardio equipment and free weights, modern business center, several meeting spaces, and a free kids' club for children under 12. Babysitting is available on request. The hotel also has a 24-hour front desk, 24-hour room service, bike hire, laundry, free on-site parking, and free Wi-Fi.