Surfing, Souks and Sunshine in Morocco

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Morocco is a melting pot of culture and an extremely diverse country from the Atlas Mountains to vibrant cities full of buzzing souks, dramatic coastline and lots of desert.  This makes it the perfect place for an active holiday and a fantastic place for watersports.  Essaouira, a laid back coastal town found on the west coast is an ideal area to be based if you love to surf, SUP or kitesurf.   It is easily accessible by road from Marrakesh or Agadir in around two and a half hours, jump on a bus or catch a taxi.  Fortified walls, a fishing harbour, souks and a medina mean you can explore and shop for a bargain until your heart’s content.  Essaouira is known for its hub of artists so look out for some local artwork to purchase amongst the narrow alleyways lined with stores full of colourful treasures and spices.  Next, visit a Hammam or relax with a coffee while watching fisherman bring in their daily catch.  The fish auction is worth a visit too, held on Monday to Saturday from 3-5pm.

After exploring the town head to the beach for some action!  With consistent Atlantic swell from October to April, (with the winter bringing bigger sets) Essaouira’s beach break is good for beginners as well as those who can already surf; and where else do you get to see camels on the shoreline?!  Explora, based right on the beach offer kite and surf clinics as well as lessons.   For more advanced surfers who are looking for bigger breaks they also provide trips out to Sidi Kaouki, The Cave and Moulay.   If you prefer to go it alone, board and wetsuit hire are 25 Euros a day and lessons start from 30 Euros.  Water temperatures range from around 16°c in the winter and climb up to 21°c in the summer months.  Depending on the time of year you go you might be able to surf in board shorts, or if you are feeling really brave just a bikini!  Surf and Yoga camps cost €485 and combine ten hours of surf lessons with daily yoga classes.  Six nights accommodation are included plus some meals, take a look at the website for further details.  This is right up my street and sounds like a great way to improve skills and make new friends.  Explora can also sort out everything for the perfect surf trip and provide packages including transfers and accommodation.  Shopping in the souks, sunshine and surfing, this is my kind of holiday!