The Colours of Morocco

Morocco is an endlessly exotic, colourful place, rich in artistic tradition, both ancient and modern with the old rubbing companionably alongside the new. The allure of Marrakech lies in its labyrinthine alleyways, secluded palaces, museums, mosques, markets and gardens.

In the small Atlantic harbour of Essaouira, the ‘blue and white’ town, the close proximity and small proportions of the medina, sandy beach and the port with gaily painted fishing boats and brightly coloured nets allow for a relaxed combination of exploration, shopping and relaxation – with a pleasant cooling breeze in summer. As the coastal end of an ancient trading route, Essaouira was known as Mogador and the ‘port of Tomboctou’. In the 15th century it became a Portuguese trading post with a fine fortress (used by Orson Welles for his 1949 film, Othello), whilst in the 60s and 70s many musicians and artists made it their home. In the ancient medina Portuguese and Moroccan architectural styles combine, silver jewellers ply their trade and Moroccan artists and craftsmen exhibit their work.