Essaouira Travel Guide
Travel to Essaouira - Relax in Old Mogador
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Originally built on a rocky peninsula and overlooking the Atlantic, Essaouira is one of Morocco's must-see destinations. With a whitewashed medina enclosed by huge pink sandstone ramparts which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and with a rich Portuguese and Andalusian heritage, Essaouira holds great appeal to both local and international travellers. From a long white sandy beach and dunes to a bustling fishing port with excellent seafood and colourful wooden fishing boats, Essaouira has always been a favourite retreat of hippies, sailors, artists and musicians.
Originally founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BC, the Portuguese arrived in the 15th century and established the first fortifications and a trading post. The town of Essaouira itself wasn't built until the latter half of the 1700's, sanctioned by an Alouite sultan, Mohammmed II. It was actually a renowned French architect who designed and built the town, harbour and fortifications in the style of a European fortress.
Attractions in Essaouira
There are several great attractions in Essaouira as well as the Festivals of Andalusian and Gnawa music. Try and watch the sunset over the Purple Islands, just off the coast.
Activities in Essaouira
Windsurfing, kite surfing, surfing, buggy and quad-biking are all popular and well-established activities in and around Essaouira.
Relaxing
A great place to unwind is the atmospheric seafood restaurant of Chez Sam's, and perhaps enjoy a fresh seafood platter and an inspirational view over the Atlantic.
Getting Around
Located 176 km from Marrakech and just over 173 km from Agadir, Essaouira is centrally positioned for those arriving by air from either gateway. The duration of the drive from Marrakech depends very much on traffic and time of day, and typically takes from 2 1/2 to 3 hours. From Agadir, along a scenic coastal route, the drive can take from 2 to 3 hours. The backstreets and passageways of the old medina are best explored on foot, although taxis are readily available for journeys outside the medina.
Essaouira Reviews
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Posted on:
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Tuesday, 11th March 2008
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Spent a few nights here and wished for more. The atmosphere is totally different to Marrakech and it's quite 'touristy' in a totally unspoiled way. It's less frenetic: calm, peaceful and friendly. It has a fantastic beach, lively harbour full of boats, stalls where you chose your fresh fish to be cooked and lots of places to sit and watch what's going on.
We stayed at the Madada - built into the old walls - and I recommend this highly. There are some fantastic restaurants too.
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Posted by:
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CliveVal
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Posted at:
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13:05