Essaouira - Mogadur

As a location for an all round holiday and base for a cooking course, Essaouira is one of the most enchanting spots in Morocco and a much more relaxed destination than neighbouring Marrakesh. It’s both a laid-back port town and a chic seaside resort and has quietly become one of the must-visit places for independent travellers, artists, musicians and indeed shoppers who all descend here.

Previously called Mogadur by the Spanish, Essaouira has a rich history of rulers including the Phoenicians and Romans.  It was the Portuguese who held control in the 16th century before the town was re-conquered and returned to Arab rule.  Referred to as Essaouira's golden age, the 17th & 18th Century created the wealth that marks the town's architecture including the hotel Riad Maison du Sud.

A small town and as such easily accessible by foot, there’s very little hassle to be encountered which is perfect for browsing the souks. It’s the kind of place you get to feel is yours and you’ll want to return to again. The plentiful fish and spices are wonderful accompaniments to your Cooking Class.

Essaouira’s appeal is its charming blend of 18th-century medina, temperate climate, slightly alternative atmosphere, vitality, colour and it’s vast sandy beaches.

There are many activities we can arrange for you here. Choose from horse and camel riding, quad biking, photography lessons, a Hammam or learning how to play the bongos. You can also go shopping with Naima and bag a bargain.