AWAKEN THE SENSES AT PARADIS PLAGE
A conversation with Ibtissam Chentouf of Paradis Plage
Paradis Plage is a year-round luxury oasis dedicated to mind, body and soul. Just a 25-minute drive from the vibrant city of Agadir, it is Morocco’s first eco-resort to offer the unique combination of surfing, yoga, spa and fitness.
The Luxury Report caught up with Communications & Marketing Executive Ibtissam Chentouf to learn more about this Atlantic gem.
The Luxury Report: Introduce us to Agadir and Paradis Plage. What makes it so special?
Ibtissam Chentouf: Agadir is so culturally rich, and the surrounding area boasts a remarkable natural heritage. The city is the capital of the Agadir Ida Outanane Prefecture and the Souss Massa which is world-renowned for its Argan oil, which can only be found here. ‘The oil contributes to a range of things, including the delicious, locally produced Amlou spread. Visitors to this region have so much to savour with the Amazigh culture, and outstanding beaches and landscapes.
The Kasbah of Agadir Oufella offers breathtaking views over the bay of Agadir and the ports beyond. Then we have Paradise Valley and its abundance of rock pools and tranquil waterfalls. Visitors should also make sure they visit Souk El Had, which is the largest market in the region and explore the aromas, flavours and colours of Morocco.
Offering all-year-round sunshine, you can explore the region, surf or relax on the beach. We believe Paradis Plage is a one-of-a-kind, subtly embracing Moroccan heritage across the modern design. Our little piece of paradise welcomes you to rejuvenate, relax and restore mind and body. The resort sits on a three-mile beach and we have the rolling Atlas Mountains behind. We serve organic cuisine, based on local produce with fresh fish from the port. This all combines to produce a tailored experience based on a unique wellness formula.
TLR: Paradis Plage is a renowned wellness resort – but there’s more to it than that, isn’t there?
IC: Indeed there is. The Atlantic waves that break on the local beach are perfect for surfing and, in collaboration with Rip Curl, Paradis Plage offers superb surfing lessons. We are very proud of this aspect. The coaches are highly experienced – they know and understand the waves that break on Taghazout beach inside out, and look forward to sharing their experience with our guests. There is honestly no better place to learn to surf.
TLR: And what do you offer on the wellness side?
IC: We have three daily yoga sessions in the tranquil shala – a beachfront setting with sliding doors that open out to swaying grasses and the rolling Atlantic. Each day, from sunrise to sunset, the Paradis Plage yoga team welcomes guests to the shala for dynamic and relaxing sessions. Our Eco Spa embodies Morocco’soriental traditions, offering you a comprehensive range of wellness and spa options using only the very best local products. And if you want to get physical, guests can also exercise with our licensed coach in the fully-equipped indoor or outdoor gym – all the while powered on by the fresh Atlantic air!
TLR: You say that the spa focuses on natural, local products tell us more.
IC: The Eco Spa & Wellness uses the best local Moroccan products, with natural active ingredients. We ensure that the products we use are harvested with respect for both the people and the planet. Orange blossom, citrus, eucalyptus, shea butter and black soap are just some of the oils and lotions used in treatments.
TLR: What can you recommend to those who want to get out and about and explore the surrounding area?
IC: As mentioned, we recommend Taghazout, a beautiful beach and a true surfer’s paradise. Then there is Immouzer Ida Outanane and its waterfall, and Taroudant, also called the “small” Marrakech, with its alleys and souks. Also, don’t miss Essaouira. You can book an excursion directly through us with our trusted suppliers.
TLR: Describe some of the other spaces around the resort?
IC: There is the Surf House, a relaxed space where our guests enjoy a drink and share moments of the day. In the evening, guests can also meet around the bonfire, or there is even an outdoor cinema to enjoy a movie under the stars. Paradis Plage has an on-site kids’ club, an outdoor playground and provides a babysitting service on request to allow you to enjoy your stay while the kids are secure and having fun. Last but not least is The Zen Garden with its outdoor jacuzzi inspired by Japanese culture. This is a wonderful, calm space to sunbathe in a hammock surrounded by bird song and the sound of trickling water. ‘There is also the option of a horse or camel ride. Ponies for the youngsters- this is a great way to connect with your new surroundings. We believe Paradis Place offers something unique. And with its diversity and cultural wealth, the Agadir and Taghazout region suits all kind of travellers. Just a few hours from many major European cities, it’s the perfect destination to get some winter sun.
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