Holidays in Essaouira

Essaouira, or Mogador as it is also know, blends nature and culture beautifully. Located in the western Morocco on the Atlantic coast, Essaouira oozes calm and laid-back attitude. Conveniently located close to Marrakech, it is easy to combine the buzzing city life with the relaxing seaside living. Essaouira offers culture, picture-perfect ramparts and a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site listed medina right by the ocean front. The dramatic ramparts are a great place to get an overview of the medina and watch the stunning sunset over the Atlantic. The easiest place to access the ramparts is at Skala de la Ville (a viewing point built along the cliffs), and another recommended place is Skala du Port down by the port offering equally magnificent views. Île de Mogador, an uninhabited island just off the coast of Essaouira, is a sanctuary for Eleanora's falcons (which can also be seen through binoculars from the beach). It is possible to visit this beautiful island outside the breeding season, but you must obtain a permit for the visit.

Essaouira is known as an artist hub and you'll be spoilt with choice of galleries and artisan products. A trip to the Spice Souk is interesting, or head to the pretty little port for the return of the colourful fishing boats in the late morning to sample freshly-caught grilled fish.