Coastal Seafood & Wine Discovery: Essaouira / Casablanca (5 Days)
Moroccan Coastal Flavors: Seafood & Wine Experience
Tour Overview
This 5-day culinary journey is a celebration of Morocco’s Atlantic gifts. Starting in the North, you’ll explore the dynamic food and wine scene near Casablanca, where Morocco’s primary vineyards thrive. The adventure culminates in the South at the historic port of Essaouira, where you’ll savor ocean-fresh seafood, walk ancient ramparts, and discover the Atlantic’s influence on both the cuisine and a local, unique vineyard.
Morocco’s wine culture, dating back centuries, is concentrated near the Atlantic coast, particularly between Casablanca and Rabat. This tour connects the structured wine tasting and cellar visits of the North with the bohemian coastal charm, local cooking classes, and incredible seafood markets of the South. It’s a tour designed for gourmands who want a taste of Morocco’s often-overlooked fine dining and farm-to-table experiences.
Duration 5 Days / 4 Nights
Theme Gastronomy, Moroccan Wine Culture, and Atlantic Seafood.
Main Destinations Casablanca, Atlantic Wine Regions (Zenata/Benslimane), Oualidia, and Essaouira.
Key Experiences Wine Tasting & Cellar Tours, Oysters in Oualidia, Seafood Cooking Class, Hassan II Mosque, and Essaouira Port visit.
Pacing Moderate; balanced between cultural immersion and relaxing coastal pace.
Day 1 Arrival in Casablanca & Coastal Wine Region
Arrive at Casablanca (CMN).
Transfer to the nearby Zenata or Benslimane wine region.
Afternoon: Guided Winery Tour and Tasting at a prominent estate (e.g., Domaine Ouled Thaleb or similar), focusing on red blends and Syrah.
Overnight: Casablanca Area / Rabat
Day 2 Casablanca City & Urban Food Discovery
Morning: Visit the iconic Hassan II Mosque (the world’s tallest minaret).
Afternoon: Explore the Marché Central (Central Market) for a street food tasting experience, sampling local olives, cheese, and regional specialties.
Overnight: Casablanca.
Day 3 Coastal Drive to Essaouira
Morning: Scenic drive south along the Atlantic Coast.
Stop in Oualidia, a charming coastal lagoon known as Morocco’s oyster capital, for a fresh seafood lunch and tasting (Doukkala AOG wine region is nearby).
Overnight: Essaouira
Day 4 Essaouira: Seafood, Souks & Organic Wine
Morning: Visit the vibrant Essaouira Fishing Port to see the iconic blue boats and choose fresh catch. Late Morning: Hands-on Seafood Cooking Class (focusing on fish tagine or seafood pastilla), starting with a souk visit for spices. Afternoon: Guided visit and tasting at Domaine du Val d’Argan, a unique vineyard located outside Essaouira, known for Rhône varietals.
Overnight: Essaouira
Day 5: Farewell Round & Departure
Morning: Explore the UNESCO-listed Medina and the Skala de la Ville ramparts.
Enjoy a final seafood breakfast (Bissara soup or grilled sardines).
Afternoon: Transfer back to Casablanca (CMN) or Marrakech (RAK) for departure.
Departure.
Your Coastal Seafood & Wine Discovery tour is designed as an all-inclusive, seamless experience covering all major logistics and specialized activities.
The price includes 4 nights of accommodation in high-quality hotels or Riads and daily breakfast.
You will travel in comfort via a private, air-conditioned vehicle for the entire 5 days, accompanied by a dedicated English-Speaking Driver/Guide who also handles all airport transfers.
The core of the experience is covered, including two premium wine tours and tastings, a hands-on seafood cooking class in Essaouira (which serves as one lunch/dinner), the fresh seafood lunch in Oualidia, and all necessary entrance fees, such as for the iconic Hassan II Mosque.
Essential FAQs for Your Coastal Culinary Experience
Is wine tasting readily available and included?
Yes. We visit established and recognized estates (primarily in the Rabat/Casablanca and Essaouira regions) for guided tours and tastings. While Morocco is an Islamic country, the legal production and consumption of wine for locals and tourists is an established industry.
How fresh is the seafood, and how is it prepared?
The seafood is exceptionally fresh, especially in Essaouira, where we visit the port to see the catch come in. You will sample grilled fish straight from the port stalls and prepare dishes like Fish Tagine or Seafood Pastilla during the cooking class.
How long is the drive from Essaouira back to Casablanca on Day 5?
The direct drive is approximately 5.5 to 6 hours. We arrange a comfortable private transfer to ensure a smooth journey to your departure airport (CMN).
What should I wear for the winery visits?
Smart casual attire is appropriate. Since cellars can be cool, a light jacket or cardigan is recommended.
Can this tour be adapted for non-drinkers?
Yes. The itinerary can be adapted to focus the winery time on the surrounding agricultural context and scenic properties. Morocco offers excellent artisanal non-alcoholic beverages (fresh juices, herbal teas) as alternatives.
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