Exploring the Charms of Essaouira with My Wife

Adieu, Essaouira!

As our week-long exploration of Essaouira draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had. This coastal city has truly captured my heart with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm, welcoming people. Today, Fatou and I set out to make the most of our final day, eager to soak in every last bit of Essaouira's charm before we bid it farewell.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at The Three Little Birds. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee were the perfect start to our morning. I savored a traditional Moroccan omelette, while Fatou enjoyed some calimari. The friendly staff and the lively chatter of fellow diners made for a truly enjoyable experience.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at The Three Little Birds in Essaouira – where every meal tells a story.

After breakfast, we decided to visit Ranch de Diabat for a horseback riding adventure. I've always found a unique connection with horses, a gentle giant, and I was looking forward to experiencing the Moroccan landscape from a different perspective. The ranch is just a short drive from Essaouira, nestled in a serene setting surrounded by rolling dunes and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the friendly staff who matched us with horses suited to our riding abilities. I was paired with a calm and gentle steed named Sahara, while Fatou, with her slightly more adventurous spirit, got a lively mare named Aziza.


Discover thrilling horseback riding and ATV adventures at Ranch de Diabat, the ultimate outdoor experience in beautiful Diabat, Morocco.

As we mounted our horses, I felt a surge of excitement and a touch of nostalgia, knowing this was our last planned activity in Essaouira. Our guide, Hassan, led us along the scenic coastal trails, sharing insights about the local flora and fauna. The rhythmic sound of the horses' hooves against the sand, the salty breeze on our faces, and the stunning views of the ocean created a sense of tranquility and connection with nature. I couldn't help but reflect on my life back in Bielefeld, Germany, and how different this felt from my daily routine as a mechanical engineer. It's moments like these that remind me of the importance of stepping outside one's comfort zone and embracing new experiences.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

During our ride, we passed by the ruins of an old Portuguese fort, a reminder of Essaouira's rich and complex history. Hassan explained how the city had been a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Berber, Arab, African, and European civilizations. I found myself pondering the layers of history beneath our feet, imagining the lives of those who had walked these paths before us. The ride lasted for two hours, taking us along the beach and through the surrounding dunes. It was suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. As someone who enjoys photography, I made sure to bring my camera to capture the stunning landscapes and the horses in their natural element. Fatou, who is always up for a bit of adventure, even tried galloping along the beach, much to my amusement and slight concern!

After our horseback adventure, we headed back to Essaouira and decided to have lunch at Restaurant Chez Les Frères. This restaurant came highly recommended for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm atmosphere. We were not disappointed. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with colorful decor and traditional music playing in the background. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. For our main courses, I opted for the tagine, while Fatou chose the grilled fish. The food was absolutely delicious, and the portions were generous. We savored every bite, accompanied by a refreshing mint tea.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and hands-on cooking classes at Restaurant Chez Les Frères in Essaouira.

Following lunch, we strolled through the medina, soaking in the sights and sounds of the bustling marketplace. The narrow streets were filled with vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and leather goods. I couldn't resist picking up a few souvenirs for our son Ebrima, a leather wallet and a small wooden carving. Fatou, ever the bargain hunter, managed to negotiate a good price for a beautiful Berber rug. As we wandered, we stumbled upon L'Horloge d'Essaouira, a historic clock tower that stands as a symbol of the city. The clock tower rises 15 meters above the Medina with four clock faces positioned on each side of its white stone structure. Built in 1764, the tower received its clock mechanism in 1926. I was immediately drawn to its unique architecture, a blend of Moroccan and European styles. I learned that the clock tower had been built in the early 20th century to help the townspeople know the time of day.


Discover the historical beauty of L'Horloge d'Essaouira, a landmark that captures the essence of Essaouira's rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.

We paused for a moment to admire the intricate details of the clock and the surrounding architecture. The clock mechanism remained silent for ten years until 2012, when local craftsmen restored it to working condition using traditional techniques. The clock tower is a central meeting point and orientation landmark for visitors exploring the old city. The area around the clock tower was bustling with activity, locals going about their daily routines and tourists snapping photos. I felt a sense of connection to the city's past and present, a reminder of the enduring spirit of Essaouira.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at Bar Orson Welles. Named after the legendary filmmaker who shot scenes from his film Othello in Essaouira, this bar exudes a classic elegance and a touch of old Hollywood glamour. The bar opens its doors daily at 11 AM, making it a perfect stop for both early birds and night owls alike. We settled into a cozy corner, ordered a couple of cocktails, and reminisced about our adventures in Essaouira. The bar had vintage decor, making it an ideal spot for relaxation after a day of sightseeing. The bar is adjacent to the historic Hotel Des Iles. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, with a mix of locals and tourists sharing stories and laughter. It was the perfect way to unwind and savor our last evening in this magical city. The attentive staff are always on hand to recommend the perfect drink to complement your experience.


Experience a blend of classic cinema charm and local flavors at Essaouira's Bar Orson Welles, a must-visit for relaxed evenings.

For our final dinner in Essaouira, we chose Le Cosy Essaouira, a restaurant known for its romantic ambiance and delicious French-Moroccan fusion cuisine. The restaurant was intimate and elegant, with soft lighting and tasteful decor. We started with a selection of seafood appetizers, followed by a main course of lamb tagine with apricots and almonds. The flavors were exquisite, a perfect blend of Moroccan spices and French culinary techniques. As we savored our meal, we reflected on the incredible experiences we had shared during our week in Essaouira. From exploring the medina and the ramparts to riding camels on the beach and indulging in delicious cuisine, we had truly immersed ourselves in the local culture.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Le Cosy Essaouira, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and hospitality.

As we walked back to our riad, Riad l'Ayel d'Essaouira, under the starlit sky, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced this enchanting city with my beloved wife, Fatou. Essaouira had exceeded all our expectations, and we were leaving with memories that would last a lifetime. The blend of relaxation and exploration suited us perfectly. I am already looking forward to bringing Ebrima here one day.


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 will be heading back to Marrakech for our flight back to Germany. While I am eager to return to my familiar routine, I know that a piece of my heart will forever remain in Essaouira. This trip has reminded me of the importance of embracing new experiences, connecting with different cultures, and cherishing the moments we share with our loved ones. Until next time, Essaouira, adieu!

Despite the wonderful memories, I did forget to pack a light jacket for the cooler evenings, a small oversight that I'll be sure to remember for future trips. Also, a power adapter would have been useful for charging our devices, but thankfully, the riad had one we could borrow.

I am so grateful to have shared this experience with Fatou, and I look forward to many more adventures together in the years to come. This trip to Essaouira has not only enriched our lives but has also strengthened our bond as husband and wife. I encourage everyone to step outside their comfort zone and explore the world, for it is through travel that we truly discover ourselves.