Essaouira with John and Cynthia

A few days in Essaouira – this coastal Moroccan city was a joy to explore. The wind is always blowing, carrying the scent of salt and fish from the nearby port. Our hotel was located in the blue-and-white warren of streets of the medina, full of the best doorways in the world.

There’s a unique blend of cultures in Essaouira’s architecture, a mix of North African and European designs. The medina is surrounded by ramparts that look like a French coastal town, yet the narrow alleys and whitewashed houses with blue shutters are Moroccan to the core.

The environmental challenges of this windswept coast have shaped both the city and its people. The locals have adapted with many buildings having wind-deflecting designs, high walls and sheltered rooftops. The streets are laid out in a grid pattern that helps manage the constant gusts.

Old craftsman with a little teeny tiny shop where he lives and works laving wooden bowls on hand, just beautiful.

Our hotel was called Dar Beida and describes itself as ‘a magical 4-bed house, like a curvy white spaceship with a mix of mid-century designer furniture, animal skins and skulls. Sleeps 4-8. Family friendly.’

It was stunning. Highly recommended.  Take a look at the video tour on our Instagram.