Essaouira, Morocco: The Perfect City Break
Essaouira is a vibey coastal town just a short drive from Marrakech, making it the perfect city break. I took a day trip to stroll the quiet streets and enjoy the beach, and I easily could have stayed for several days. It is small but offers a lot, and as you near Essaouira, you'll feel the energy shift and your body relax into the slower pulse of life, making it hard to leave!
Things To Do
For stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, head to Skala de la Ville, the city's fortified walls dotted with cannons. Here, you can stand in the nooks that make for a great photo opportunity while watching the waves crash into the shore.
Explore the UNESCO-listed medina and discover its unique artisan-crafted goods of leather, jewelry, textiles, and pottery.
Stroll around the bustling fishing port, where you can watch fishermen at work fileting the day's catch, sample fresh seafood, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Catch the sunset at one of the low-key beach bars. Here, you can sit at a table lined with sand and watch the camels and horses walk along the beach while enjoying surfers and a glass of wine.
Visit a women's cooperative that produces argan oil. Unique to the region, the oil is used either as a beauty product or roasted for cooking. I visited Mogador Women’s Cooperative with Eco Linko, a local travel company, and learned the process of making argan oil while supporting the women's community.
Where and What To Eat
In Essaouira, the seafood is as fresh as it gets, and you must try it! The culinary scene combines tradition and innovation, offering Moroccan classics such as tagine and couscous and the best fresh fish and seafood. Eating freshly shucked oysters in the port for less than a euro was a simple and divine memory.
Al Jazira Restaurant serves the best authentic breakfast. There is no sign out front, so it can be difficult to find. Put “Snack Aljazira” into Google Maps, and you should be able to find directions. If you see a line of people out front, then you know you’re in the right place.
Overall, Essaouira should definitely be added to your Morocco itinerary!
xx Kam