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

Adieu, Essaouira!

As our final day in Essaouira dawned, a bittersweet feeling washed over me. This coastal town had captured our hearts with its blend of history, culture, and seaside charm. Today was all about soaking in those last moments, revisiting favorite spots, and discovering a few hidden gems before we packed our bags and prepared for our journey back to Marrakech. It was a day of vibrant markets, stunning harbor views, and artistic exploration, a perfect culmination to our family adventure.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant la tolérance, a charming spot known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality. I savored one last taste of Moroccan mint tea, a ritual that had become a cherished part of our mornings here. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and delicious food set the perfect tone for our final day of exploration. Aoife and Róisín enjoyed the traditional Moroccan pancakes, while I opted for the flavorful tagine. It was a delightful start, fueling us for the adventures that awaited.

Our first stop was Place du Marché aux Grains, a bustling square in the heart of the medina. This vibrant marketplace, known historically as a grain market, now serves as a meeting point where the aromas of spices mingle with the chatter of locals and tourists alike. The square, paved with pebbles, is surrounded by shops selling spices and artisan workshops under arcades. We wandered through the stalls, admiring the colorful displays of spices, argan oil, and local crafts. Róisín was particularly fascinated by a craftsman who makes leather shoes and asked if he could make her a pair, but unfortunately we didn't have enough time left for him to make them in a record time of two days.


Discover the vibrant heart of Essaouira at Place du Marché aux Grains, a historical landmark filled with culture, crafts, and local flavors.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in the memories we create and the bonds we strengthen along the way.

Next, we headed to the Harbour Scala, a historic fortification that offers panoramic views of the harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. The sea-blue fishing boats bobbed gently in the water, while seagulls screeched overhead. The scene was straight out of a postcard. As we walked along the ramparts, I couldn't help but imagine the city's rich maritime history. The kids were fascinated by the cannons that lined the walls, remnants of a time when Essaouira was a major trading port. The salty air filled our lungs as we gazed out at the vast expanse of the ocean, feeling a sense of peace and tranquility.


Explore the historic Harbour Scala in Essaouira, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking ocean views and a glimpse into Morocco's maritime heritage.

We watched the local fishermen hauling in their catch of the day. The air was filled with the scent of the sea, and the sounds of seagulls echoed around us. It was a sensory experience that truly captured the essence of Essaouira. Aoife, always the history enthusiast, pointed out the architectural details of the scala, explaining its significance in the city's defense. Róisín, with her artistic eye, captured the scene with her camera, eager to preserve the memory of this picturesque harbor.

Lunch was at Restaurant des Rêves, a delightful restaurant known for its fresh seafood and Moroccan specialties. The restaurant is styled as a Moroccan salon. We savored a delicious seafood tagine, a flavorful dish that perfectly encapsulated the local cuisine. The cozy ambiance and attentive service made it a memorable dining experience. As we ate, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip, laughing and sharing stories.


Experience authentic Moroccan and seafood cuisine at Restaurant des Rêves in Essaouira's charming Medina.

After lunch, we decided to immerse ourselves in Essaouira's art scene with a visit to Gallery Kasbah. Located in the heart of the medina, this gallery showcases a diverse collection of contemporary Moroccan art. As we stepped inside Galerie la Kasbah, we were immediately enveloped in a world of colour and creativity. The gallery, nestled within a beautifully restored 18th-century riad, exuded a sense of history and charm. The gallery is small yet inviting, making it easy to appreciate the art without feeling rushed. Each room represented different art schools, with a total of 100 national and international artists. The collection featured everything from traditional paintings and intricate rugs to unique furniture and decorative pieces. I was particularly drawn to the works of local artists, whose pieces reflected the vibrant spirit of Essaouira. Aoife appreciated the blend of Moroccan traditions and global influences, while Róisín was inspired by the innovative techniques and styles. It was a perfect spot for art lovers looking for something unique during their visit.


Discover the vibrant art scene of Essaouira at Gallery Kasbah, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary creativity in a historic setting.

We spent a leisurely afternoon browsing the exhibits, admiring the talent and creativity on display. The gallery's owner, Kabir, was a passionate and knowledgeable man who shared insights into the artists and their works. We learned about the different art schools represented, from realism to abstract, and gained a deeper appreciation for the evolving art scene in Morocco. The gallery also has a terrace that offers a pretty view of the city.

Before dinner, we squeezed in some time for a final shopping spree at Koulchi Concept Store. This unique store offers a curated selection of Moroccan artisanal creations, from Beldi glasses and embroidered cushions to accessories and lighting. The store spans several floors and offers an original space. We found some lovely souvenirs to take back home, each one a reminder of our time in Essaouira. Róisín found a beautiful Berber rug, while Aoife picked out a set of hand-painted ceramics. I settled on a traditional Moroccan lantern, eager to bring a piece of Essaouira's ambiance back to Dublin.


Discover the charm of Koulchi Concept Store in Essaouira, where artisanal crafts meet a cozy coffee shop atmosphere.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Dar Baba Restaurant & More, a restaurant in the heart of the medina known for its Mediterranean and international dishes. The building is historic, dating back to the 19th century. The restaurant has a terrace with an ocean view. We enjoyed a delicious meal of tapas and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, savoring the flavors of the sea and the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and eclectic decor made it a perfect setting for our farewell dinner.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Dar Baba Restaurant in Essaouira – where flavors meet tradition in an inviting atmosphere.

The flavours are Mediterranean, crossing Morocco's culinary heritage. The spices were delicate and the textures harmonious. The restaurant also has a wide choice of wines and spirits. The restaurant has vintage decorations and original spaces.

As we sat there, enjoying our meal and each other's company, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared during our time in Essaouira. From exploring the bustling medina to relaxing on the sandy beaches, every moment had been special. This trip had not only allowed us to discover a new destination but had also strengthened our bonds as a family.

After dinner, we took one last stroll through the medina, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city at night. The narrow streets were alive with activity, as locals and tourists alike gathered to enjoy the cool evening air. The scent of spices and grilled meats filled the air, and the sounds of music and laughter echoed through the streets. It was a magical atmosphere, one that I knew we would never forget.

As we walked back to Riad Nakhla, I couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness that our time in Essaouira was coming to an end. But I also felt a sense of gratitude for the memories we had created and the experiences we had shared. Essaouira had captured our hearts, and I knew that we would carry a piece of it with us wherever we went.


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

Tomorrow, we would be heading back to Marrakech, ready to continue our Moroccan adventure. But for now, I was content to savor these last moments in Essaouira, cherishing the memories of our family adventure in this beautiful coastal town. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that we would always have Essaouira to look back on with fondness and love. It was more than just a destination; it was a place where we had created memories that would last a lifetime.