Exploring the Coastal Charms of Essaouira with Family

A Day of Equestrian Adventures and Artistic Discoveries

Today in Essaouira was nothing short of magical. Imagine yourself on horseback, the wind in your hair, exploring ancient ruins and fragrant forests. That's precisely the kind of day I had, and I can't wait to share every detail with you. It was a day where the beauty of nature intertwined seamlessly with the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Restaurant Ramsess. The vintage 1960s decor, complete with stone arches, created a cozy atmosphere. I savored a traditional Moroccan breakfast, which gave me the energy I needed for the day ahead. It’s amazing how a simple meal can transport you to another era, especially when enjoyed in such a charming setting.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Ramsess in Essaouira – where traditional meets contemporary dining.

After breakfast, we headed to Ranch de Diabat for our horseback riding adventure. The ranch is located a short drive from Essaouira, nestled in the tranquil landscapes of Diabat. The weather was perfect, with a gentle breeze and clear skies, ideal for a ride along the beach. Hans and I were both excited, as we had heard wonderful things about the stables and their well-cared-for horses.


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

Upon arrival, we were greeted by our friendly guide, who matched us with horses suited to our riding abilities. My horse, a beautiful Arabian, was gentle and responsive, making me feel immediately at ease. Hans, who is a less experienced rider than I am, was given a calm and steady horse, which boosted his confidence.

Our ride took us along the coast, through eucalyptus and mimosa forests, and past the ruins of the Black Sultan's palace. The scenery was breathtaking. The rhythmic sound of the horses' hooves, the salty air, and the stunning views of the Atlantic created an unforgettable sensory experience. The ruins of the palace were particularly intriguing, offering a glimpse into Morocco's rich history.

The true beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing them fully, embracing every moment and every encounter.

As we rode, our guide shared stories about the local area, pointing out interesting landmarks and sharing insights into Moroccan culture. He explained that Diabat was once home to Jimi Hendrix, who reportedly spent time here in the late 1960s. It’s easy to see why he was inspired by this place; the landscape is truly magical.

After our exhilarating ride, we worked up quite an appetite and decided to have lunch at O'Bleu Mogador. This restaurant, tucked away in the medina, is known for its fusion cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We started with fresh oysters, followed by a delicious lobster soup. The flavors were exquisite, a perfect blend of French and Moroccan influences. The service was impeccable, and the staff made us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at O'Bleu Mogador in Essaouira – where local flavors meet unforgettable ambiance.

In the afternoon, I was keen to explore the local crafts, so we visited Wood Thuya, a shop specializing in thuya wood carvings. Essaouira is renowned for its thuya wood, a fragrant and beautiful wood native to the region. The shop was filled with an array of intricately carved boxes, bowls, and other decorative items. Each piece was a testament to the skill and artistry of the local artisans.


Explore the charm of Essaouira with unique handcrafted gifts at Wood Thuya, a treasure trove of Moroccan artistry and culture.

I learned that the tradition of thuya wood carving in Essaouira dates back to the 19th century when sultans commissioned artisans to create decorative objects and furniture. The artisans use thuya wood to design both decorative and functional items. As I wandered through the shop, I admired the craftsmanship and the unique beauty of each piece. The aroma of the thuya wood, with its slightly piney and fresh scent, filled the air, adding to the sensory experience.

I couldn't resist purchasing a few small boxes as souvenirs, each one a unique reminder of our time in Essaouira. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when traveling, and I was happy to contribute to this vibrant community.

For dinner, we chose Chez Zak, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh lobster. The restaurant is located in the heart of Essaouira, and it has a cozy and authentic atmosphere. We started with grilled salads, followed by the specialty of the house: grilled lobster. The lobster was incredibly fresh and flavorful, cooked to perfection. The staff was welcoming and attentive, making us feel like part of their family.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Chez Zak in Essaouira’s enchanting Medina - a culinary treasure for every traveler.

One of the highlights of Chez Zak is the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the city. We were lucky enough to snag the rooftop table, and we enjoyed our meal while watching the sunset over Essaouira. It was a truly magical experience, a perfect ending to a perfect day.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our adventures. From the exhilarating horseback ride to the artistic discoveries at Wood Thuya, every moment was filled with beauty and wonder. Essaouira has a way of captivating the senses, of drawing you into its rich history and vibrant culture.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Place du Marché aux Grains and Bab El Marsa, eager to uncover more of Essaouira's hidden gems. I’m also looking forward to visiting Ici Mogador, another local shop, to see what unique treasures we can find. I'm certain that Essaouira still has a lot more to offer, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Before heading back to the hotel, Hans and I strolled along the beach, listening to the waves and feeling the cool sand beneath our feet. We talked about our favorite moments of the day, reliving the laughter and joy we shared. These are the moments that make travel so special, the memories that will stay with us long after we return home.

As I write this, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences of today. Essaouira has truly captured my heart, and I am eager to continue exploring its wonders. Until tomorrow, dear readers, may your days be filled with adventure and discovery.

I am so grateful that I get to share these experiences with Hans. It makes it so much more special to have someone to share in these discoveries.

For those planning a trip to Essaouira, I highly recommend Ranch de Diabat for horseback riding, O'Bleu Mogador and Chez Zak for dining, and Wood Thuya for unique souvenirs. Each of these experiences offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of this beautiful city.

And don't forget to bring your sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes. You'll need them for all the adventures that await!

Goodnight from Essaouira!