Exploring the Charms of Essaouira with My Wife

Echoes of History and Art in Essaouira

Today was a sensory feast, a deep dive into the heart of Essaouira's history, art, and culinary scene. The city unfolded its layers, revealing stories etched in stone and painted on canvases, all while tantalizing our taste buds with the rich flavors of Morocco. It was a day of exploration and discovery, leaving Fatou and me with a deeper appreciation for this coastal gem.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Berber. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of freshly baked bread and mint tea were the perfect start. I opted for the Berber omelet, a local specialty, while Fatou enjoyed the vegetarian couscous, which she declared the best she'd ever had. The staff were incredibly friendly, happily sharing the recipes for some of their dishes, adding a personal touch to our dining experience.


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

With our appetites satisfied, we set out to explore Sqala de La Kasbah, a historic fortress that juts out into the Atlantic. The ramparts, built in the 18th century, offered panoramic views of the ocean and the bustling medina. As we walked along the top platform, the wind whipped around us, carrying the scent of salt and the distant cries of seagulls. The cannons, remnants of a bygone era, stood sentinel, guarding the city against invaders. I could almost hear the echoes of battles fought and won, the stories of brave defenders who stood their ground against the relentless sea.


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

The stones of Sqala de La Kasbah whisper tales of battles fought and art galleries echo with the vibrant expressions of Moroccan soul.

Fatou, ever the history enthusiast, was captivated by the stories of the fortress, its role in protecting Essaouira from maritime attacks. I, on the other hand, was fascinated by the architecture, the intricate stonework that has withstood the test of time. We spent a good hour exploring the ramparts, taking photos and soaking in the atmosphere. The views were simply breathtaking, the turquoise waters of the Atlantic stretching out to the horizon, the white-washed buildings of the medina huddled together like a flock of sheep.

Leaving Sqala de La Kasbah, we ventured into the heart of the medina, seeking out Gallery Kasbah, a renowned art space showcasing the works of local and international artists. Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century riad, the gallery was a treasure trove of artistic expression. Each room represented a different art school, from Realism to Abstract, Impressionism to Surrealism.


Explore the vibrant artistry of Essaouira at Gallery Kasbah, where local craftsmanship meets rich Moroccan culture.

Fatou, with her keen eye for detail, was particularly drawn to the abstract pieces, while I found myself gravitating towards the more traditional Moroccan art. We spent hours wandering through the gallery, admiring the paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. The gallery also featured a collection of artisanal crafts, including Berber jewelry and thuya wood carvings, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

One particular piece caught my eye: a vibrant painting of a bustling Essaouira marketplace, the colors so vivid, the details so intricate, that I felt transported to the scene. I could almost smell the spices, hear the bartering, and feel the energy of the crowd. It was a masterpiece that captured the essence of Essaouira, its vibrant spirit and its rich cultural tapestry.

As the afternoon wore on, our stomachs began to rumble, reminding us that it was time for lunch. We decided to try Triskala, a restaurant known for its innovative Moroccan and vegetarian cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy, bohemian vibe, with colorful walls, mismatched furniture, and quirky artwork. The menu was a fusion of Moroccan and European flavors, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Triskala – an organic and vegan-friendly restaurant in Essaouira's charming medina.

Fatou opted for the vegetable tagine, a classic Moroccan dish, while I decided to try the grilled sardines, a local specialty. The tagine was a symphony of flavors, the vegetables cooked to perfection, the spices adding a warm, aromatic note. The sardines were equally delicious, grilled to a crisp, their smoky flavor enhanced by a squeeze of lemon. We shared a plate of Moroccan pastries for dessert, their sweetness a perfect ending to a satisfying meal.

In the late afternoon, with the sun beginning its descent, we strolled along the beach, the waves crashing against the shore, the seagulls circling overhead. The air was filled with the scent of salt and the sound of laughter, as families played in the sand, children built sandcastles, and couples strolled hand in hand.

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-dinner drink at Taros, a bar renowned for its stunning rooftop terrace and panoramic views. Perched high above the medina, we watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. The view was simply magical, the city bathed in a golden light, the ocean shimmering like a thousand diamonds.


Discover the vibrant charm of Taros, a premier bar and restaurant in Essaouira, offering exquisite cuisine and breathtaking rooftop views.

With the sun now set, we made our way to Umia Restaurant for dinner, a place recommended for its modern take on Moroccan cuisine. The ambiance was elegant yet relaxed, with soft lighting and tasteful décor. I chose the beef wellington, cooked to perfection, while Fatou enjoyed the grilled squid. For dessert, we shared a chocolate mousse, rich and decadent, a perfect end to a perfect meal.


Discover Umia Restaurant in Essaouira for an unforgettable dining experience blending traditional Moroccan flavors with modern cuisine.

As we walked back to Riad l'Ayel d'Essaouira, hand in hand, we reflected on the day's adventures. Essaouira had captivated us with its history, its art, and its culinary delights. It was a city that had awakened our senses, stimulated our minds, and nourished our souls.


Discover the charm of Riad l'Ayel d'Essaouira, a cozy retreat offering comfort, local cuisine, and easy access to Essaouira's vibrant attractions. Book now!

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Place Moulay Hassan and Dar Souiri, delving deeper into the heart of Essaouira's cultural heritage. We also intend to visit La gazelle d'Essaouira, a shop known for its unique local products. I am looking forward to more adventures in this enchanting city.

This trip is not just a vacation; it's a reminder of the importance of shared experiences. Life, much like a well-engineered machine, runs smoothly when all parts are in harmony. And what better way to ensure that harmony than by exploring new horizons with the one you love? It's these moments, these shared adventures, that make life truly rich and meaningful.