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700km south of Tangier, Essaouira is Morocco’s prime coastal resort, a charming UNESCO fortress city on the Atlantic seaboard and a beautiful destination for winding down at the end of the trip. Set within the natural bay sheltered by the Purpuraires Islets just of the coast, its history traced back to pre- Roman times as a trading post for Tyrian Purple dye, a colour so favoured by the emperors. In 1510, an early fortress built under the Portuguese king Manuel I yet modern Essaouira owes itself to Mohammed III. For 12 years from 1760, the Sultan directed French engineer, Théodore Cornut to reshape it along modern lines and so create a cosmopolitan port that opened up sub-Saharan trade to the outside world. Today, its long open beach attracts wind- and kite-surfers alike while heading to the centre and you can explore its dramatic ramparts, winding alleys and souks. Although international travellers have long replaced the original hippies who pioneered it as a resort, its easy-going nature lives on in marked contrast to the frenetic energy of Fes or Marrakech.
Dar Loulema is a small, charming guesthouse with a prime location close to the heart of Essaouira. It is perched just behind the rampart walls within the medina overlooking Moulay Hassan Square...
This palace of marvels lies in the heart of Essaouira, a mysterious and spiritual place loved by artists and adventurers alike. L’Heure Bleue Palais has succeeded in preserving the character of a...
Located in Ida Ougourd, just 12 km from Essaouira, we welcome you to our guesthouse, a haven of peace sheltered from the wind, for a smooth stay. Make yourself at home in one of the six guestrooms....
Inspired by the magnificent Moroccan riads, the Médina Essaouira Hotel Thalassa Sea and Spa by MGallery is decorated in the traditional red of Mogador. Close to the sea, the medina and the port, this...
Just metres from the beach and the surrounding souks, the Villa de l’Ô is a charming boutique hotel and once almond storage depot within the Essaouira’s historic medina. Pass through the heavy-beamed...
Squeezed between the ancient medina and Essaouira’s rampart walls, Madada Mogador is a chic boutique hotel with captivating views out towards the Atlantic. Once owned by a Souira merchant, the...
“The entire trip exceeded our expectations. The guides were friendly and very knowledgeable and listened to and responded to our needs and interests. They organised a very varied itinerary, the highlight for us was participating in a family meal with each different ethnic minorities.
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