Tikida Golf Palace- Relais & Chateaux

Small lakes and the impeccable Golf du Soleil wrap this boutique property, where golf enthusiasts join well-heeled leisure couples. Cosmopolitan layouts retain Moroccan charm thanks to arches on camel-toned concretes, intricate lanterns, and rich textiles. The lobby's white chairs and sofas are accented by quality rugs and huge colorful artworks. Bold hues continue outdoors, where chic parasols on dining terraces match cushioned loungers around the outdoor pool. The atmosphere throughout is refined, but not pretentious. Staff here receive excellent reviews for their attentiveness, even hand-delivering golfing gear from reception to greens. You'll see the odd family, but it's more of a grown-up place. If not swinging their clubs, guests can be seen lounging by the pool or sampling the restaurant's gourmet Moroccan fare. 

The hotel's remote location contributes to its serenity, but it isn't for everyone. A vehicle here is useful, although daily shuttles run free to downtown Agadir and the beach (at the property's sister hotel). Both are a 15-minute drive. Agadir has a lot to offer, from its famous Medina, to market stalls at the huge Souk El Had. The hotel sits on Golf du Soleil, and free buggies to the course are plentiful. For more golf opportunities, Ocean Golf Course is a 10-minute drive. Souss-Massa National Park is home to over 300 species of flora, and a 45-minute drive away. The nearest Agadir-Inezgane Airport is a 12-minute drive, and it's 30 minutes by car from Agadir International Airport.

Suites are spacious -- starting at 646 square feet (60 square meters) -- and an elegant mix of of contemporary and traditionally Moroccan. Actual decor varies a bit, but all have wood furnishings, Moorish carvings, terra-cotta or brown tile topped with colorful rugs, and linens in neutral tones. All have air-conditioning, desks, and sitting areas, and amenities include flat-screen satellite TVs with DVD players, phones, safes, and mini-fridges, but no kettles or coffeemakers. Paneled walk-in closets are high-end, and bathrooms with green marble accents have walk-in showers, deep tubs, toiletries, hairdryers, slippers, and robes. Upgraded Prestige Suites are a staggering 1292 square feet (120 square meters), featuring vast private terraces with dining furniture and plush red loungers, although entry-level Junior Suites also get furnished balconies. Rooms overlook the calm pool or golf courses, and some offer glimpses of the sea.

Guests get green fee discounts for the two 18-hole courses at Golf du Soleil. The outdoor pool is a classy scene, and quality decking here supports cushioned loungers in vibrant red. Views of the hotel's bronze-toned exteriors are enhanced by climbing ivies, and the space is quiet. The spa has an indoor pool with whirlpool, plus a Turkish hammam and modern fitness center. Treatment rooms offer massages and rose water wraps, but note, there's a fee to access any of the spa facilities. La Table du Golf's is set in a upscale space with white-clothed tables and burnt-orange chair fabrics and drapes. Traditional "pastillas" and tagines are on offer, but guests have found the menu lacks variety. The free buffet breakfast offers cooked and continental options, and juices that are freshly squeezed. The lobby bar has leather seating and a grand piano. Room service is available. There's a lack of entertainment and kid-centric features, though, most guests that come here don't mind. Parking is free, as is Wi-Fi, throughout.