Exploring the Coastal Charms of Essaouira with Family

Essaouira's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

The air is different here, a mix of salty sea breeze and the warm spices of Morocco. Arriving in Essaouira with Hans and the family felt like stepping into a postcard. After months of planning, our Moroccan adventure has officially begun, and I couldn't be more excited to share every moment with you. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of this coastal town, exploring its historic Medina of Essaouira and the bustling port.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at The Loft. Located right in the Medina, it was the perfect spot to fuel up before diving into our explorations. The European-style cuisine was a refreshing change, and the atmosphere was so cozy. I opted for a traditional Moroccan mint tea, while Hans enjoyed a strong coffee to combat the jet lag. The kids were thrilled with their pastries, and we were all set for our first adventure.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at The Loft in Essaouira - where traditional cuisine meets modern flair in an inviting atmosphere.

Stepping out of The Loft, we found ourselves immediately enveloped by the vibrant energy of the Medina of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The narrow, winding streets were a maze of colors and sounds, a sensory feast that captivated us all. The architecture was a beautiful blend of European and Moroccan styles, a testament to the town's rich history as a trading port. As we wandered through the Medina, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lay ahead.


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

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

We stumbled upon Trésors nomades, a charming shop filled with unique, handcrafted treasures. I was immediately drawn to the intricate Berber jewelry and the colorful textiles. It was the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs to remind us of our time in Essaouira. The shopkeeper was incredibly kind, sharing stories about the local artisans and the history behind each piece. It was moments like these that made me fall in love with traveling – connecting with people and learning about their culture.


Explore Trésors Nomades, a hidden gem in Essaouira's Medina, offering a unique selection of handcrafted Moroccan gifts that embody local culture.

For lunch, we ventured to Restaurant Gusto Italia, drawn in by the promise of authentic Italian cuisine. It might seem strange to eat Italian food in Morocco, but we were craving something familiar, and the reviews were fantastic. We were not disappointed. The pasta was fresh, the ingredients were high-quality, and the service was impeccable. Hans, ever the adventurous one, even tried a Moroccan wine recommended by the waiter. It was a delightful meal that satisfied both our cravings and our curiosity.


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

After lunch, we made our way to the Port of Essaouira Sqala, a historic fortification that once protected the town from naval invasions. The Sqala was built in the 1760s and offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the bustling harbor below. As we walked along the ramparts, we could almost hear the echoes of cannons firing and the shouts of sailors. The kids were fascinated by the cannons, imagining themselves as pirates and soldiers defending the town. The wind was strong, a reminder of Essaouira's reputation as the Windy City, but the views were breathtaking.


Experience the rich history and stunning coastal beauty of Essaouira, Morocco's enchanting port city filled with art, culture, and culinary delights.

As the sun began to set, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Taros. The rooftop terrace offered stunning 360-degree views of the town and the ocean. The atmosphere was lively, with music playing and people laughing. We ordered a mix of Moroccan and international dishes, savoring each bite as we watched the sky transform into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Essaouira.


Experience exquisite Moroccan cuisine with stunning ocean views at Taros in Essaouira - A must-visit dining destination.

Before heading back to Hotel Des Iles, we stopped by Bar Orson Welles for a nightcap. The bar, named after the legendary filmmaker, had a unique ambiance with vintage decor and a relaxed vibe. We sipped on local wines and reflected on the day's adventures. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with exploration and discovery. As we walked back to our hotel, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to experience a new culture with my family.


Experience the charm of Essaouira at Hotel Des Iles, where comfort meets culture. Enjoy stunning beaches, exquisite dining, and memorable adventures!


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

Tomorrow, we plan to continue our exploration of Essaouira, visiting the Sqala de la Kasbah and the City Walls. I'm eager to delve deeper into the town's history and culture, and I can't wait to share those experiences with you. For now, I'm off to bed, dreaming of the sights, sounds, and flavors of Essaouira.

Until tomorrow,
Lucia

P.S. I almost forgot to mention, I forgot to pack our beach towels and sunglasses! A rookie mistake, I know. Thankfully, we were able to find some at a local shop in the Medina. Lesson learned: always double-check your packing list!

The weather in Essaouira in March is mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18-21°C (64-70°F). The winds are calmer in March compared to the summer months, making it a pleasant time to visit. Rainfall is possible, but irregular. The average sea temperature is around 16-18°C (61-64°F), which may be too chilly for some to swim without a wetsuit.