Exploring the Enchanting Coast of Essaouira with Friends

Essaouira's Coastal Charm: Day One

After a long journey from Montreal, with a layover in Casablanca, I finally arrived in Essaouira with my friends. The drive from Marrakech was scenic, and as we approached the coast, I could feel the excitement building. I’ve always been captivated by the blend of history and culture that Morocco offers, and Essaouira, with its reputation as a laid-back coastal town, seemed like the perfect place to start our adventure. The promise of exploring the Medina, tasting fresh seafood, and soaking in the local atmosphere was too enticing to resist.

The first day of our Essaouira adventure has been nothing short of magical. From the moment we stepped into the Medina of Essaouira to our evening spent by the harbor, every corner of this city whispered stories of its rich past and vibrant present. It's an experience that has already etched itself into my memory, and I can't wait to see what the rest of the week holds. Élodie would have loved this place. I can already picture her sketching the vibrant scenes of the Medina, her eyes sparkling with inspiration.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at The Loft. The cafe was charming, with a cozy atmosphere that made us feel right at home. I ordered a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea, fresh bread, and local honey. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The others opted for a more familiar continental breakfast, but even they couldn't resist sampling the local delicacies. We sat there for a while, sipping our tea and discussing our plans for the day, eager to dive into the heart of Essaouira.

The Medina of Essaouira is more than just a maze of streets; it's a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and daily life, where every corner holds a new discovery.

After breakfast, we ventured into the Medina of Essaouira. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a maze of narrow streets, each lined with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to handcrafted souvenirs. The air was filled with the scent of argan oil, a local specialty, and the sounds of artisans hammering metal and weaving carpets. I was immediately drawn in by the vibrant colors and the bustling energy of the marketplace. We wandered through the labyrinthine alleys, getting delightfully lost in the process. Every turn revealed something new and fascinating – a hidden courtyard, a beautifully decorated doorway, or a craftsman at work. I picked up a few small souvenirs, including a hand-painted ceramic bowl and a leather bracelet, already envisioning how they would look back in our Montreal home.

We spent hours exploring the Medina, stopping to admire the intricate woodwork, the colorful textiles, and the unique blend of Berber, Arab, and European influences. The architecture was stunning, with whitewashed buildings and blue accents that reflected the city's coastal location. As a software developer, I couldn't help but appreciate the complex algorithms that seemed to govern the layout of the Medina. It was a chaotic yet perfectly organized system, designed to maximize space and functionality.

For lunch, we decided to try Triskala, a restaurant known for its innovative Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant had a funky, bohemian vibe, with vintage decor and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu changes daily, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I opted for the vegetable tagine, while my friends tried the grilled fish and the falafel plate. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The tagine was particularly memorable, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. I made a mental note to try and recreate it back home, though I knew it wouldn't be quite the same without the authentic Moroccan spices.

In the afternoon, we made our way to the Port of Essaouira Sqala. This historic fortress offers stunning views of the harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. The ramparts were lined with cannons, a reminder of the city's past as a strategic military outpost. As we walked along the walls, the sea breeze whipped through our hair, and the sound of seagulls filled the air. The views were breathtaking, with the blue fishing boats bobbing in the harbor and the waves crashing against the shore. I imagined what it must have been like to defend this city against invaders, standing on these very walls, centuries ago.


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

The port itself was a hive of activity, with fishermen unloading their catch and vendors selling fresh seafood. The air was thick with the smell of salt and fish, and the sounds of bartering filled the air. I watched as the fishermen skillfully maneuvered their boats, their faces weathered by years of working at sea. It was a scene straight out of a movie, a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

As the sun began to set, we decided to find a spot to enjoy a drink and watch the sky transform into a canvas of colors. We ended up at Bar Orson Welles, a bar named after the famous filmmaker who apparently was inspired by this coastal town. The bar had a classic, old-world charm, with vintage decor and a relaxed atmosphere. We ordered some local Moroccan wines and settled in to watch the sunset. The sky was ablaze with oranges, pinks, and purples, and the view of the harbor was simply stunning. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


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

For dinner, we chose Taros, a restaurant recommended for its seafood and panoramic views. The restaurant was located on a rooftop terrace, offering a 360-degree view of the city. The ambiance was elegant and sophisticated, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. I ordered the grilled fish, while my friends opted for the beef tacos and the seafood paella. The food was delicious, and the views were even better. As we ate, we watched the city come alive with lights, and the sound of music drifted up from the streets below.


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

After dinner, we strolled along the beach, enjoying the cool evening air and the sound of the waves. The beach was relatively quiet, with only a few other people out for a walk. We talked about our day, sharing our favorite moments and making plans for the rest of the week. We are thinking of taking a day trip to Marrakech later in the week, or perhaps exploring some of the surrounding countryside.

As I lay in bed, reflecting on the day, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore Essaouira with my friends. The city had exceeded all of my expectations, and I was already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Sqala de la Kasbah and Place Moulay Hassan. I'm particularly excited to see the Sqala de la Kasbah, as I've heard it offers even more stunning views of the city and the ocean. I also want to check out Koulchi Concept Store, a shop known for its unique Moroccan crafts and designs. It's supposed to be a great place to find authentic souvenirs and gifts. Before drifting off to sleep, I made sure to charge my camera and pack my essentials for the next day. I also double-checked the weather forecast, which predicted another sunny day with a gentle breeze. I drifted off to sleep, dreaming of the adventures that awaited us in the morning.