Visit a large rural market and the "Gardens of Essaouira"
The largest rural market in the region takes place every Sunday in Had Draa (30 km from Essaouira). The farmers of the region present their crops, animals and crafts and to shop for the week. The gathering at Had Draa serves also for socializing: chatting over tea with friends, exchanging news in a café or under a tent.
The market gives an insight into the daily lives of Berbers in the Moroccan countryside, with everything needed for living and working: food for the animals, simple windows made of wood, entrance doors made of metal in "Berber style", self-made saddle bags for donkeys and camels, and household effects. There are also the "flying haircutters" offering haircuts and shaves under simple tents; vegetables and fruits, nuts and spices.
After the market tour, drive to Ain el Hajar, a lush, green oasis known as the "Gardens of Essaouira". An irrigation system emanating from a natural spring allows crops to grow here. At the village, tall palm trees encircle olive and pomegranate groves, which in turn give shade for onions, corn and other crops, such as “slaoui”, a Moroccan vegetable from the pumpkin family used in the traditional tagines.
Rejoin the coast at Moulay Bouzerktoun, a surfer village, with the option of lunch at a restaurant with terrace above the Atlantic.
The Lawrence of Morocco map displays the locations of the destinations and accommodation that we have selected and visited; for each item, hovering over or clicking the marker will display a short summary and photo of that place or hotel, and hotel pricing. Follow the links in the info box to the full page listing which has much more information.
Note that the online map offers both a satellite view (click satellite in the top right) and, for some locations, a street level view (Drag the person in the top left onto the map). These let you explore the country; and when you wish to explore in person, or if you have any questions about the places you see, give our staff a call, or request a quote. Our staff regularly visit the places and accommodation that we feature.
When you book a holiday with us we will provide full driving instructions for reaching your accommodation, where necessary; these can be used by yourself, or you could enjoy the luxury of a driver. Alternatively we will arrange private (car rather than coach) transfers for you; helicopter transfers are also possible for some destinations.
We really know Morocco and have had the pleasure of making many people's dream trips become reality over the years. It has been our privilege to be asked to manage holidays, weddings and productions for so many fantastic and discerning clients. We remain small and dedicated to providing excellent honest advice to enable you to sit back, relax and enjoy the fun bits without having to manage the unpredictability of this fascinating country.
If you want it done right, look no further!
