One of Africa’s most popular beach resorts is Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt, which attracts millions of sun seekers.
Known for its sheltered sandy beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs, it is a perfect destination for escaping the long, grey British winters.
The resort receives around 11 million visitors a year, and plans are underway to double that number in the coming years.
The ambitious plans, though, could see the resort suffer from overcrowding—a problem that has beset many European seaside towns recently.
However, for those looking for less crowds and something off the beaten track, one African resort fits the bill perfectly and provides a great alternative.
Essaouira is a port city and resort on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, roughly a three-hour car ride from Marrakech.
The city offers a melting pot of different cultures, with a combination of Arabic, Jewish, and Berber influences.
These influences are felt most keenly in the fortified medina (old town), spice-scented lanes and palm-lined avenues.
Surrounded by dramatic, wave-lashed ramparts, its narrow streets are full of vendors and art galleries.
In the late 18th century, the Medina was added to Unesco’s World Heritage list in 2001.
It was famously used in the opening scene of Orson Welles’ 1951 film Othello and, more recently, Game of Thrones.
Wandering through its atmospheric streets, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to shop for rugs, bags and artwork.
However, its most iconic product is its hand-painted ceramics, which make an excellent present for family and friends.
Essaouira’s long sandy beach lies beyond the medina’s walls, and can often be full of kite surfers.
The resort can be buffeted by strong winds, which makes sunbathing and swimming difficult.
At times like these, the best option is to take a walk along the beach, heading south across the Ksob River to see the ruins of the Borj El Berod, an old fortress and pavilion that’s partially covered in sand.
