Essaouira on the Atlantic coast, is Morocco's most popular seaside resort, and is often referred to as Marrakech?s beach. Dating from the eighteenth-century, this charming town is enclosed by medieval battlements, facing a cluster of rocky offshore islands. It was originally called Mogador and was an important Portuguese trading centre between Africa and Europe. Its beautiful architecture, pretty blue and whitewashed shuttered houses and colonnades, thuya wood workshops and art galleries, its boat-builders and sardine fishermen, all provide a colourful and very pleasant backdrop to the 10 km long sandy beach and dunes. Seagulls constantly soar overhead, their cries occasionally silenced by the muezzin's call, and the backdrop of the azure sky contrasts appealingly with the white buildings and sand-coloured fortifications.

Orson Wells spent several months here in1949 filming scenes along the ramparts for "Othello" and helped put Essaouira on the tourist map. Two decades later, Essaouira became an important stop on the hippie trail; both Cat Stevens and Jimi Hendrix spent evenings strumming guitars around bonfires. The wonderful light and its enchanting atmosphere and temperate all-year-round climate encouraged many artists and writers to come to Essaouira to work and many have now settled there.

Essaouira is all about just chilling out: exploring the tiny alleyways of the colourful Souks, relaxing on the beach or enjoying an activity outside in the fresh air. The small Medina is ?pedestrian only? and therefore easily navigable and hassle free. The local shopkeepers are relaxed and friendly and the Souks are relatively quiet and offer a range of wares, from spices and crafts to colourful carpets and exquisite marquetry, made from the local thuya wood.

Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out in Essaouira. Everyday at the bustling port, there are colourful fish stalls offering visitors the ?catches of the day? cooked on charcoal barbecues; whilst along the seafront there are many attractive cafés and restaurants with outside terraces, all offering a good choice of snacks and meals. In addition, there is an interesting and eclectic mix of restaurants where you can dine out in the evenings.

There is also a wide choice of activities on offer; windsurfers can ride the breakers and then hangout at the cafés on the beach; golfers can enjoy a round of golf at the newly-opened 9 hole course (soon to become a world-class 18 hole venue) and children can ride camels on the sand and along the dunes. Afterwards, there is nothing more enjoyable than people- watching from one of the cafés on the Place Moulay Hassan, the main square near the lively port and harbour. Located just under three hour?s drive from Marrakech, Essaouira is perfect for a relaxing break, and combines well with Marrakech for an enjoyable two centre holiday.