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GADIR is a seaside town in Morocco, virtually destroyed and then rebuilt following an earthquake in 1960. The city is therefore relatively modern, but retains a sense of history. Hike to the Kabash, fortifications at the top of a hill in the oldest district in Agadir. The Kabash was built in 1541 and was one of the few buildings not destroyed by the earthquake. Admire the Arabic architecture and revel in views across the city.
Agadir is famous for its long stretch of sandy beach. It’s popular all year round, due to the mild sunny winters. The beach is famous for surfing and watersports. The promenade runs for a couple of miles around the marina and usually has a good mix of tourists and locals. There are plenty of gift shops, cafes and ice cream parlours to visit along the way. It’s also possible to hire bikes and scooters.
Hunt out souvenirs, fine fabrics and fresh fruit and vegetables at the Souk El Had d’Agadir. It’s possible to get lost in the vibrant colours and smells, and lattice of hundreds of stalls selling everything from handmade shoes to leather goods and spices to groceries. Be prepared to haggle for a good price. Take a trip to a hammam for a traditional Moroccan massage, which includes a full body scrub lying on a large marble stone, a rinse and a massage in a hot room (haret). Afterwards, relax wrapped in a dressing gown or towel, steaming out toxins.
Crocoparc is a wildlife reserve 14 kilometres to the east of Agadir, which is home to the Nile crocodiles, which were almost wiped out by hunting in the 20th century. Learn about these protected animals and see them in a habit designed to mimic their home in the wild. Entry costs 70MAD for adults, 40MAD for children.
Agadir offers three top golf courses - the Royal, the Soleil and the Dunes. There is also The Royal Tennis Club and opportunities for horse riding. Buses in Agadir are inexpensive but can be very crowded in rush hour. Driving can be confusing, as there are many on-way street which appear seemingly without warning. The centre of the city is fairly easy to explore on foot and maps are available in many book shops, convenience stores and newsagents. Grab a petit taxi when a longer journey is needed. and coriander, served with or without meat), tagines of vegetables, meat or fish, and pastilla (filo pastry filled with chicken, parsley cinnamon, saffron and almonds, sprinkled with sugar).
La Madrague offers marina views and delicious fish and seafood. Meanwhile L P’tit dome offers traditional Moroccan cuisine cooked gourmet-style, and El Toro serves Spanish delicacies from tortilla to paella on a seaside promenade.