A Family Adventure in Essaouira: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastal Beauty

First Impressions of Essaouira
Our Moroccan adventure has officially begun, and what a start it has been! Stepping into Essaouira felt like entering a different world, a place where history whispers from every corner and the vibrant culture embraces you like a warm gust of wind. I'm eager to share the first day of our family's exploration in this captivating coastal town.

After a smooth flight from Dublin to Marrakech and a scenic drive through the Moroccan countryside, we finally arrived in Essaouira. The drive itself was a treat, offering glimpses of the vast landscapes and the unique argan trees that dot the region. Aoife kept remarking on how different it was from the green fields of Ireland, while Róisín was busy capturing the views with her camera. We checked into Riad Nakhla, a charming and tranquil retreat nestled in the heart of the city. It was the perfect sanctuary to unwind and prepare for our explorations. It felt great to finally put my bags down after a long day of travel, and I was very excited to start my exploration of this new city.


Discover the charm of Essaouira at Riad Nakhla, a serene retreat with spa services, close to the beach and city center, perfect for travelers.

Our first stop was the Medina of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This maze of narrow streets is a feast for the senses. The air is filled with the aroma of spices, the sounds of artisans at work, and the vibrant colors of the local crafts. As we wandered through the Medina, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the rich history and culture that permeated every corner. It reminded me of the bustling markets back in Kluang, Malaysia, but with a unique Moroccan twist. I was immediately drawn to the intricate woodwork, a specialty of the region. The thuya wood, with its dark redwood, golden veins, and intense smell, was particularly captivating. I watched as artisans meticulously carved and inlaid delicate patterns, a skill passed down through generations. It was truly mesmerizing to witness their craftsmanship.


Experience the vibrant culture and historic charm of Essaouira's Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with artistry and coastal beauty.

Essaouira is more than just a destination; it's an experience that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul.

Next, we ventured towards the Port de Essaouira, a bustling hub of activity where the day's catch was being unloaded. The sight of the bright blue fishing boats bobbing in the water, the fishermen hauling in their nets, and the seagulls circling overhead was a scene straight out of a postcard. The port has a rich history, dating back to the 7th century BC when it served as a major stopover point for global trade. Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah played a significant role in promoting free trade policies and establishing Essaouira as a key port in the 18th century. I learned that in the 19th century, Essaouira became Morocco's first seaport, handling double the trade volume of Rabat. It's amazing to think that this modest-sized port was once the most important trading center in Morocco.


Explore the vibrant Port of Essaouira, where rich history meets stunning coastal views and local flavors await every traveler.

From the port, we made our way to the Sqala de La Kasbah, a historic fortification that once served as a defensive stronghold against naval invasions. Built in the 18th century under Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah, the Sqala de la Kasbah is an architectural gem that blends Portuguese and Moroccan styles. As we walked along the ramparts, I was struck by the panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Medina. The ancient bronze cannons, a testament to Essaouira's military heritage, added to the atmosphere. Róisín was particularly fascinated by the cannons, while Aoife enjoyed the serene escape and the stunning views. The Sqala de la Kasbah forms a unique Saint-Malo look for the town.


Experience the rich history and stunning ocean views at Sqala de La Kasbah, a must-see attraction in Essaouira, Morocco.

For breakfast, we stopped at Cafe Restaurant Berber in the Medina. This cozy little spot is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm, family atmosphere. I ordered the Berber omelet, while Aoife opted for the vegetarian couscous, which she declared was the best she'd ever tasted. Róisín, ever the adventurous foodie, tried the tagine lamb with dry fruit and loved it. The staff were incredibly friendly, and the interior decoration reflected the richness of Moroccan culture. It was the perfect way to start our day of exploration.


Discover the essence of Moroccan cuisine at Cafe Restaurant Berber in Essaouira - where every dish tells a story.

Lunch found us at Restaurant Gusto Italia, a delightful surprise in the heart of Essaouira. After days of tagine, couscous and other Moroccan delights, we decided to have a taste of Italy. The setting was modern and inviting, and the customer service was excellent. I chose a pasta dish, while Aoife enjoyed a pizza made with ingredients imported from Italy. Róisín went for a seafood risotto that was bursting with flavor. It was a welcome break from the local cuisine, and we all left feeling satisfied.


Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Gusto Italia in Essaouira - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

As the day drew to a close, we dined at Restaurant d'Orient et d'Ailleurs, a charming spot near the Skala d'Essaouira. The restaurant offered a mix of Moroccan, French, and Mediterranean cuisine in a cozy and intimate setting. I savored a flavorful tagine, while Aoife enjoyed a perfectly cooked fish. Róisín opted for the seafood salad, which she said was incredibly fresh. The atmosphere was relaxed and the service was attentive. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Essaouira.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine with a modern twist at Restaurant d'Orient et d'Ailleurs in Essaouira.

Before dinner, we stopped by the Artisan Craft Atelier in the Medina. I was in search of a special memento to remind me of our trip. The atelier was a treasure trove of local crafts, from thuya wood carvings to intricate jewelry. I ended up purchasing a beautiful thuya wood box with delicate inlays, a piece that I know will be a cherished reminder of our time in Essaouira. Aoife bought a colorful Berber rug, while Róisín found a unique silver necklace. The experience was immersive, and it was wonderful to support the local artisans.


Discover the vibrant world of Moroccan craftsmanship at the Artisan Craft Atelier in Essaouira's historic Medina.

As we strolled back to our riad, we reflected on the day's adventures. Essaouira had already captured our hearts with its blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty. The crisp November air added a refreshing touch to our exploration. The city's temperate climate and ocean breezes made it a perfect escape from the colder weather in Dublin. We are all looking forward to tomorrow when we plan to visit Plage d'Essaouira, Gallery Kasbah and Dar Souiri. We might even check out Taros bar in the evening.

I almost forgot, I did forget my sunglasses and hat, so I will have to buy some tomorrow!

Today, November 5, there wasn't a Gnaoua festival. However, I did read that there will be a Jimi Hendrix tribute concert at Dar Souiri later this month.

Essaouira, you have cast your spell on us, and we can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!