Essaouira offers far more than its medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its ramparts and seafront shaped by the winds of the Atlantic. The surrounding area reveals unspoilt nature, wild beaches, dunes and charming villages, where the Moroccan art of living can be experienced away from the bustle. A stay in a villa in Essaouira naturally extends into its surroundings, between luminous countryside and Atlantic coastline, for a deeper immersion in this region of Morocco.
The road towards the women’s argan oil cooperatives reveals the ancestral know-how that still shapes Essaouira’s hinterland. Cooperatives such as Marjana and Mogador Essaouira preserve the traditional methods of extracting argan oil, from cracking the nuts to manual pressing. Visitors can observe the different stages of this artisanal process and understand the economic and social importance of this liquid gold for the people of the region. It is something that offers a deeper understanding of local traditions and craftsmanship.
In the Essaouira countryside, Domaine du Val d’Argan continues this discovery with an unexpected wine experience. Founded in 1994, this family-run vineyard produces certified organic wines from grape varieties grown in the valley, surrounded by vines and olive trees. Tastings of grey, red, rosé and white wines can be enjoyed alongside lunch by the pool, with the possibility of trying the homemade Friday couscous. The quality of both the wines and the setting makes this estate a wonderful place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Every Sunday morning, Had Draa souk takes place around thirty kilometres from Essaouira, in the small village of the same name. This rural market begins at dawn with the sale of livestock, camels and the catch of the day, before its stalls fill with fresh vegetables, dried fruits, spices and local crafts. Organised by area and trade, the souk offers a vivid immersion into the exchanges and traditions of the surrounding countryside. Sampling fresh fish prepared by local vendors is part of the whole experience.
Beyond this weekly gathering, the Berber villages of the hinterland reveal their rammed-earth houses and landscapes dotted with argan trees. These preserved hamlets, reached by winding roads through the valleys, embody an authentic and peaceful Morocco, far from the activity of the coast. Meeting local residents and observing the rhythm of daily life complete this discovery of Essaouira’s countryside.
Around Diabat, horse riding offers a privileged way to discover the coastline and the hinterland. Ranch de Diabat is a natural starting point for these outings, whether you choose to follow the beaches or venture into the sand dunes. Routes cross varied landscapes, between the Atlantic Ocean and mimosa forests, and can be adapted to all levels.
Camel rides, suitable for children, offer a relaxed way to explore Essaouira’s shoreline. These outings often take place at the end of the day, facing the sunset in Essaouira, when the coast is bathed in golden light.
For those seeking more intense sensations, quad bike and buggy excursions cross the coast and surrounding countryside, between golden dunes and rugged tracks, providing an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
The coastline around Essaouira is the perfect destination for kitesurfing and surfing as well as paddleboarding. Sidi Kaouki, around twenty kilometres south of Essaouira, is one of the region’s most sought-after spots. Its regular waves and bohemian atmosphere attract both beginners and experienced surfers throughout the year.
Océan Vagabond, located on the beach, offers introductory lessons and equipment rental for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. Instructors adapt each session to individual levels, in a safe setting designed for progression. Wind conditions, particularly favourable between April and September, make this coastline an ideal playground for board sports.
Around thirty minutes by car south of Essaouira, Sidi Kaouki is a small Berber village that has preserved its peaceful atmosphere and laidback vibe. A few white houses, cafés and restaurants by the sea, discreet guest houses and a way of life shaped by the ocean make it an ideal place to discover local culture. After a walk along the most beautiful beaches of Essaouira , settle on a terrace for a mint tea facing the Atlantic. Its long wild beach is renowned for surfing, kitesurfing and horse riding, among the many activities available in the region. At low tide, visitors can also discover small rock pools along sections of the shoreline.
Located just a few minutes by car from Essaouira’s city centre, Diabat is a discreet village surrounded by dunes and wild landscapes. Wandering through its quiet alleys, you discover an authentic village where time seems to have slowed. It is known in particular for the ruins of Dar Sultan Palace, one of the historic castles and palaces around Essaouira, partly buried in the sand, as well as for its connection with Jimi Hendrix’s time in the region. Local legends have even linked the area to productions such as Game of Thrones, although no scenes were filmed here. With its artists’ studios, peaceful atmosphere, vast beach bordering the Atlantic and many outdoor activities, Diabat is an ideal place for a half-day escape.
North of Essaouira, Moulay Bouzerktoun is a fishing village where daily life is still shaped by trips out to sea and the return of boats to the fishing port. Its small traditional harbour, houses facing the ocean and simple atmosphere make it a privileged place to immerse yourself in local culture. The village is also internationally renowned for its beach, considered one of the country’s best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots thanks to the regular Atlantic winds. A nearby small fortress and coastal signs of the area's maritime heritage add to its charm.
Just a few minutes from the beaches and medina, Villa Betty charms with its generous living spaces, swimming pool and house staff. An ideal address for a stay with family or friends.
Set in the heart of an argan forest, Dar El Salam offers a peaceful setting with a heated swimming pool, large garden, mini tennis court and house staff. A true haven of calm a few kilometres from Essaouira.
In Ghazoua, Dar Algie welcomes large families to an expansive estate with a large swimming pool, landscaped gardens and generous outdoor spaces. An ideal villa for enjoying the tranquillity of the countryside while remaining close to the ocean.
Close to the medina, Dar Gustavia combines modern architecture, a swimming pool and a large terrace in an elegant setting. Its location near Mogador Golf and the beaches makes it an ideal address for discovering Essaouira.
Villanovo’s collection in Essaouira brings together villas with private pools and hammams, a riad in the heart of the medina, properties on Mogador Golf and villas in the surrounding countryside. Selected properties also include dedicated house staff. Locations vary according to your wishes: by the sea to enjoy the Atlantic, in the surrounding countryside for immersion in landscapes of argan trees, or in the heart of the medina to experience the rhythm of the souks, art galleries, quiet alleys, historic ramparts and impressive city walls.
The dedicated concierge service naturally supports your stay in Essaouira, from organising excursions and walking tours to restaurant reservations. Your concierge can also arrange a private chef, while itineraries between Essaouira, Safi and Agadir can be planned according to guests’ wishes, for a stay shaped down to the finest detail. A personalised travel journal is provided before your arrival, making it easier to discover the region’s historic sites, coastal villages and hidden gems as part of your Morocco itinerary.
