Essaouira

About Essaouira

Set on Morocco’s Atlantic west coast, Essaouira is a world away from the beautiful mayhem of neighbouring Marrakech, with a more zen and bohemian vibe in this picturesque port city. That is, despite its dramatic winds – which have earned Essaouira the title of ‘The Wind City of Africa’. For most of the year the coastal wind is so strong that kicking back on the beach is impossible (not your destination for lazy days of sunbathing!). But don’t be put off – not only does the wind make it much less touristy, it attracts a cool crowd of windsurfers between April and November, and plenty of people in spring and autumn for its traditional culture and character.

The UNESCO-listed medina is a majestic maze of souks selling colourful, fragrant spices, authentic terracotta tagine pots, punnets of bright red strawberries and freshly made argan oil. There are many boutiques and art galleries to explore, including the Galerie la Kasbah, a beautifully restored 18th century riad, and the port always has a lively atmosphere, where you can grab coffee and watch the wooden boats being made, or visit the hugely popular fish market just outside the port gates.