Essaouira, Morocco » general info

"Here it is, the paradise that was once my home: sea and mountains. Some of this remains with one throughout life, even before science, civilisation and consciousness. And perhaps I will return there to die in peace."
Driss Chraibi, one of the best-known writers of northern Africa wrote this sentence when speaking of his native country, Morocco...

…, a mystical land, with a culture that goes back thirty centuries, at the crossroads of Berber, Roman and Arabs civilisations. Morocco's numerous treasures include cities like Marrakech, the royal residence, surrounded by arcane palm groves, lying like an oasis in the desert and regarded as the gateway to the south.

Searching for a further dream destination and caught up by the 'Thousand and one Nights' atmosphere of this magic land, we followed the wind and found the port of Essaouira, on the west coast of Morocco, a town reminiscent of Andalusia. Formerly known as Mogador, this port was once regarded as one of Morocco's most important trade centres. Its importance did not wane until Timbuktu was occupied by France and transport through the Sahara thus interrupted.

Our centre is in the middle of the crescent-shaped bay, not far from the Old City. Together with the Ocean Vagabond Restaurant & Café, we have created a relaxed, cosy atmosphere for all our guests. As a result of the huge differences between sea and land temperatures, the northeasterly trade wind is accelerated by thermal action and blows inexorably. It's almost as if it never stops to catch its breath.

Essaouira has proved to be the perfect spot for wave novices, kitesurf novices and surfers
For advanced wave riders, there are two more spots in the immediate vicinity: Sidi Kaouki and Moulay.

Life is easy here and Essaouira offers far more than mere constant winds. Our centre is only a few minutes away from the town.
Essaouira stands like a fata morgana on a long rocky cliff facing the sea. A mixture of sunshine and light, with whitewashed houses wreathed in mist from the waves of the Atlantic swell. Possessing a charm all of its own, the Old City, which is enclosed by ramparts and battlements, offers cosy restaurants, teeming alleys and idyllic squares.
Boasting a completely intact Medina, surrounded by fortified walls, and long, white beaches, it is regarded as one of the most beautiful towns on the Atlantic. The charms of Essaouira are revealed by a visit to the souks, with their wild mixture of spices, people from various nations and their apparent chaos (only at first sight).
The rich blend of colours and sounds is a special Oriental experience that underscores the charm of this country even more.