Exploring the Coastal Charms of Essaouira

Echoes of History and Spice in Essaouira

Today was a deep dive into the heart of Essaouira, a sensory explosion of sights, sounds, and tastes that painted a vivid picture of this coastal gem. With my friends, I navigated the historic sites and bustling markets, truly immersing myself in the local culture. It was a day of discovery, laughter, and shared experiences that I'll treasure long after we've left Morocco.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at O'Bleu Mogador. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee were the perfect start. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with msemen (buttery flatbread), honey, and a pot of mint tea. It was a delicious and energizing way to prepare for the day's adventures. The chef seemed genuinely interested in our opinions, which made the experience even more special.


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

After breakfast, we made our way to Sqala de La Kasbah, a historic fortress that once protected the city from maritime attacks. The imposing structure, with its ancient cannons still pointing out to sea, offered breathtaking views of the Atlantic. The wind was strong, whipping our hair as we gazed out at the horizon, imagining the battles that once raged here. The views of the Medina from here were incredible.


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

From the Sqala de La Kasbah, we ventured into the heart of the Medina, making our way to Gallery Kasbah. The gallery was a treasure trove of local art, showcasing the talents and creativity of Essaouira's artists. I was particularly drawn to the vibrant colors and intricate details of the paintings, each telling a story of Moroccan life and culture. Fatima, an incredibly kind and multilingual employee, showed us around and told us about the different artworks. She really made our day!


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

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing them fully, engaging with the local culture, and creating lasting memories with friends.

Next on our list was Place du Marché aux Grains, a bustling marketplace where locals and tourists alike gather to buy and sell everything from spices and produce to handicrafts and souvenirs. The air was thick with the aroma of spices, and the sounds of bartering filled the air. I couldn't resist picking up a few souvenirs, including a small tagine pot and a bag of fragrant spices to remind me of Essaouira long after I've returned to Hamburg. I even considered getting a pair of leather shoes made, as the square is known for its skilled leather artisans.


Explore the vibrant and historic Place du Marché aux Grains in Essaouira, where local culture and unique craftsmanship converge.

For lunch, we decided to try Triskala, a restaurant known for its funky vibe and eco-friendly approach to Moroccan cuisine. The menu changes daily, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I opted for the vegetable tagine, which was bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. My friends tried the falafel and some seafood dishes, and everyone raved about their meals. The cozy interior, with its hodgepodge decorations and resident cats, added to the restaurant's unique charm. It was easy to see why Lonely Planet recommends it.


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

After lunch, we indulged in some retail therapy at La gazelle d'Essaouira. It was hard to resist the beautiful artisanal products on offer, and I ended up buying a few gifts for family and friends back home. Supporting local artisans is important to me, and I was happy to find such a wide selection of high-quality, handcrafted goods.


Discover La Gazelle d'Essaouira, your go-to gift shop for authentic Moroccan handicrafts and unique treasures in the heart of Essaouira.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Taros, a rooftop bar overlooking the Medina and the ocean. The views were simply stunning, and the atmosphere was relaxed and convivial. We ordered some cocktails and watched as the sky transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors, painting a perfect ending to a perfect day. The music from Taros can be heard from some of the nearby riads, like Dar Loulema, but thankfully, it wasn't too loud at Hotel Coté Océan Mogador. It was the perfect spot to enjoy sundowner cocktails while taking in the scenery.


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

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Essaouira with my friends. The city's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty had captivated me, and I knew that I would carry the memories of this day with me always.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Essaouira's cultural heritage with visits to the Synagogue Slat Lkahal Mogador and Dar Souiri. I'm also excited about the prospect of ecotourism and hiking, hoping to explore the natural beauty surrounding the city. We'll be having breakfast at Chez Rachid, lunch at Restaurant Sayef, and dinner at Le Cosy Essaouira. A bit of shopping at Ici Mogador and drinks at Ocean Vagabond are also on the cards. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Being here in February, the weather has been mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city on foot. The temperature today was around 18°C, making it comfortable to wander through the Medina and enjoy the coastal views. It's a far cry from the colder temperatures back in Hamburg, and I'm soaking up every bit of sunshine I can get.

As an urban beekeeper, I'm always drawn to the local flora and fauna of the places I visit. I noticed several argan trees in the surrounding areas, which are not only beautiful but also play a vital role in the local ecosystem and economy. I also learned about the process of making argan oil, which is a traditional practice in this region. The goats climbing the argan trees were definitely a sight to behold!

I'm so glad I remembered to pack my camera for this trip. Wildlife photography is one of my passions, and I've already captured some stunning images of the birds and marine life along the coast. I did, however, forget my portable phone charger and travel adapter, which has been a bit of a hassle. Lesson learned: always double-check your packing list!

Essaouira has truly captured my heart, and I'm already looking forward to the adventures that await us tomorrow. It's a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, offering something for everyone. And experiencing it all with friends makes it even more special.

I'm also mindful of traveling sustainably and supporting local communities. I made sure to bring my reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics whenever possible. I also tried to purchase goods and services from local businesses, contributing to the local economy.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can still hear the sounds of the Medina and feel the gentle sea breeze on my skin. It's a feeling that I hope to carry with me long after I've left Essaouira, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world. I am also reminded that I am single. Perhaps I will meet someone special on this trip!

I am excited to see what tomorrow brings!