Continuing our journey along the Atlantic coast of Morocco, we took a halt in Essaouira, a small fisherman city known for its kitesurfing and windsurfing activities because of the strong wind that blows onto the shore. Opt for Essaouira for its small town feel, for the fact that the medina retains much of its orignal character inside the fortified city walls. Opt also for its tranquility, when most sun-and-beach-seeking tourists will go further south to popular Agadir, you will be left to enjoy the beaches of Essaouira peacefully.
When we went mid-May, the climate was a bit chilly, so we did not swim but enjoying the view of the ocean from the sandy beaches is just as rewarding. There are horseback and camel riding available on the shore as well. As we climbed up onto these tall animals, the exotic serenity of the place charmed us deeply.
Head to the medina to admire the authenticity of Essaouira, where you can smell a diversity of spices, camel milk and traditional moroccan food, in a mixture with the damp salty air. Be prepared to get lost in the narrow alleyways of the old city, zigzagging forever between small souvenir stands, various carpet and textile stores and charming tiny restaurants.
There are various accommodation options in Essaouira. To experience real Morocco, try staying in a riad. Most of them located inside the medina, riads are traditional dwellings with a small number of rooms for rent. The house usually is built around a circular interior courtyard allowing you to have your meals outdoor but in total privacy. The architecture and decor inside riads is mesmerizing. Warm embroidered textiles usually line the seating areas, colourful tiles and heavy wooden doors and ceilings build an antique charm that cannot be found anywhere else.
If you prefer lodging closer to the beach, you’ll have to get out of the medina to the outer skirts of the old city, where most are large modern hotels. We stayed in the Atlast Essaouira & Spa (unfortunately no picture of the room) and loved the cleanliness and minimalistic decor. The hotel also had a nice garden and pool where you can relax after your exhausting day of bargaining with the merchants inside the medina for all the souvenirs on your list to bring home.
