Essaouira – Coastal Adventure

If you seek fresh Atlantic air, a vibrant blue-and-white aesthetic, and an utterly relaxed atmosphere, Essaouira is your destination. Nicknamed the “Wind City of Africa,” this fortified port city is a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its harmonious blend of historic architecture and contemporary bohemian culture.

Essaouira captivates visitors with its striking 18th-century ramparts, its bustling, colourful fishing port, and its laid-back medina where artisans carve fragrant Thuya wood and Gnaoua musicians play rhythmic trance music. Whether you’re a history buff exploring the ancient cannons of the Skala de la Ville or an adrenaline junkie chasing the waves, Essaouira provides a refreshing, unforgettable escape by the sea.

The Atmosphere & Vibe

• Aesthetic: The medina is characterized by whitewashed houses with distinctive blue doors and window frames, giving it a Greek-islands feel, but with unique Moroccan charm.

• Pace: The atmosphere is much more tranquil and less chaotic than the Imperial Cities, making it ideal for leisurely strolls and peaceful relaxation.

• Culture: Essaouira is the spiritual home of Gnaoua music, and you can often hear musicians playing in the streets and squares. It is also an important hub for local artists and art galleries.

Historic & Cultural Highlights

• The Medina (UNESCO Site): Built in the mid-18th century by a French architect, the medina’s design is unique, showing a strong blend of European military and Moroccan civilian architecture.

• The Ramparts (Skala de la Ville): The most photogenic feature. You can walk along the defensive sea walls, lined with antique brass cannons, which offer dramatic views of the Atlantic waves crashing below. (Recognizable to fans of the TV series Game of Thrones as Astapor).

• The Port: A dynamic, working fishing harbor where hundreds of vibrant blue boats bob in the water. It’s the best place to witness the daily catch being brought in and sold.

• The Souks: Smaller and less overwhelming than those in Marrakech, specializing in maritime crafts, silver jewellery, and items carved from the local, aromatic Thuya wood.

Coastal Adventure & Activities

• Wind Sports: Essaouira is a world-renowned destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to its shallow bay and strong, consistent onshore winds, especially from April to November.

• Seafood Feasts: Eating fresh, grilled seafood directly from the stalls at the port is an essential culinary adventure. You pick your fish or calamari, and it is cooked immediately.

• Beach Activities: The long, sandy beach is perfect for horse riding or camel riding at sunset, quad biking tours, or just a breezy walk.

• Relaxation: Despite the wind, the beach offers a vast expanse for walking and taking in the ocean air, providing a welcome break from the heat of inland Morocco.