SUNSETS AND SOUKS

Head to Morocco's boho seaside town of Essaouira for an easy, breezy break in cinematic surroundings

- CHRIS MORLEYLS

WHY GO?

Perched at the tip of pale-gold sands, this ancient Moroccan town is a jumble of flat-roofed, salt-weathered houses hugged by fortified stone walls. Once known as the Port of Timbuktu, this is where spices, gold – and slaves – arrived by camel train across the Sahara to be taken to Europe and the Americas. Although still a working port, it’s best known as a laid-back beach destination with a fascinating souk, amazing food and chic shopping.

FILM-STAR ARCHITECTURE

Essaouira dates back to Phoenician times, but the defensive ramparts that wrap around the tangled streets of the old town (medina), were built in the 18th century. Wander these cinematic bastions and watch the surf-topped Atlantic waves crash against the rocks, or go at sunset to admire pink and purple skies. These walls have also basked under camera spotlights – featuring in Game of Thrones and Orson Welles’ Othello.