Areas of Morocco...
Destination guide

Not only is Morocco a country of great cultural riches, it is also geographically varied and therefore offers the independent traveler a huge variety of vacation experiences. This wonderful country offers a real fusion of North African and European culture.

The north of the country has a Mediterranean coastline and a strong European influence. Behind this coastline sits the Rif , a fertile region of high mountains, gorges and interesting rock formations. The west of Morocco is dominated by the Atlantic coast and there are many beautiful beaches and water sport activities on offer. Essaouira is situated in a prime location on this coastline. Inland are the impressive Atlas Mountains , home to the Berber people, and perfect for hiking, trekking and biking holidays. Marrakech stands at the foothills of the Atlas and is a perfect centre from which to explore the Atlas area. The south of Morocco is a vast region of deserts, mountains and oases, where nomads still travel around in centuries old tradition.

To explore the whole of Morocco could take a lifetime. This is why at Fleewinter we have chosen two key destinations which, between them, offer a taste of all that is Morocco . Please email us or call us with your requirements.

Situated inland, Marrakech holds a highly important strategic position between the Mediterranean and Rif in the north, the deserts to the south, the Atlas Mountains to the east and the Atlantic coast to the west. It is a true crossroads - the meeting of all aspects of Moroccan culture and tradition. Founded 1000 years ago Marrakech is an astonishing city which has a proud and turbulent history. It brings together centuries old traditions and beliefs and marries them with the modern outlook of today's Morocco . Within its city walls are reminders of its Berber and Arab heritage, the great builders and craftsman who brought this city to life over the years. Today it encapsulates all that is Morocco - a proudly Muslim country whose roots are in Africa , whose ambition is to marry Islamic reform with economic and personal freedom and whose outlook is, in part, undoubtedly European. Marrakech is a city which welcomes visitors with open arms. Its people are friendly and extremely helpful, happy to share their city and its beautiful palaces, mosques and gardens and its fascinating souks centered on the unique Place Jemaa el-Fna.

Tours from Marrakech

Marrakech is a great base from which to explore the surrounding countryside. We can arrange tours for you from mountain biking in the Atlas Mountains to staying in tented Berber villages. Please refer to our section on Tours and things to do or email or call us and we'll gladly help you organize your trip.

Essaouira

Essaouira may not be what you would expect from Africa . Situated in a prime location on the Atlantic coast, Essaouira was first established by the Phoenicians in the 7 th century BC. A trading post, naval port and former Portuguese stronghold, today it is a charming seaside resort, a maze of streets lined with lime-washed buildings nestled in the ramparts and medina walls. One of the town's main attractions is its long, wide sandy beach - one of the finest in Africa - where windsurfers and kite flyers enjoy the prevailing Atlantic winds. Essaouira has a strong European influence (a French architect was responsible for its layout) and the narrow streets are complemented by wide avenues and small squares. It remains very much a working harbour, with fishing fleets leaving the port early each morning and returning mid-afternoon with their catch. Essaouira is also home to artists and craftsmen. In the1960s it was a favourite haunt of the hippy in-crowd and retains some of that atmosphere still. Today it is a quiet mix of the exotic and the familiar. It is a great place to relax and the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of Marrakech.

Tours from Essaouira

Essaouira is a superb base from which to explore the coastline and surrounding countryside. We can arrange tours for you to go trekking into the forests of Argan and almond trees, to discover waterfalls and gorges or to drive a 4 x 4 into the mountains. Alternatively head south towards the sub-Sahara to experience nomadic life. Please refer to our section on Tours and things to do or email or call us and we'll gladly help you organize your trip.

For details of things to do in Essaouira please refer to the section 'Things to do in Marrakech and Essaouira'