Ancient ruins. Colourful bazaars. Spiced-filled tagines. Morocco is the stuff of your #wanderlust Instagram feed. But it’s the hidden gems that really make a trip to this North African country truly special. And the tiny surf town of Taghazout ticks all your authentic AF boxes. That’s why we’re heading there in 2020. Obvs.
You get a full day to explore this place on our new Morocco trip, so here’s the low down on how to make the most of your free time – provided by our resident expert, Max.
#1 Get carving.
FYI this place is a surfer’s wet dream – like ocean wet, get your head out of the gutter. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, Taghazout has got a surf break for everyone. Thought wax was just an overused hair product of the 90’s? Then the aptly named Taghazout Beach is for you. Get the basics down pat with an optional surfing lesson right out front of our beachside accomm (you can thank us later). If it isn’t your first time, make a B-line to the “holy grail” of Morocco’s right-hand long curling surf breaks: Anchor Point. And for the real die-hards, the fast barrels off Killers Point are calling.
#2 Find paradise in Paradise Valley.
The idea of getting rolled around in whitewash along the coast doesn’t do it for you? Fair enough. Take a trip out to Paradise Valley instead. A maze of palm-fringed gorges in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains – this place is bliss. The valley is made up of a bunch of fresh-water rock pools and natural water slides. We’ve got an optional day trip sorted for you so no need to worry about the logistics. Just pack your trainers, bathers (budgies) and sunscreen. And when you’re done with all the swimming and sliding, stuff your face with a freshly made tagine at Brahim’s café.
#3 Fill your tummy and soul.
Start your day off the right way, with an included buffet breakfast back at base. Take your piled-up plate out onto the terrace overlooking Taghazout Beach and embrace the coastal vibes. This is what you came for. Lunch is best spent under the shaded arbour of Dar Josephine. Order a kefta tagine with a side of warm batbout (aka pita bread) and tzatziki. Then? Head to World of Waves for great coffee and fresh smoothies on their ocean-view terrace. And finally, round up the day with a drool-worthy take-away pizza from Pizza Hot (not hut) and tuck in with your Topdeck mates along the coast.
#4 Relax and unwind. No movement required.
Laid-back isn’t just a concept here, it’s a way of life. So, to really experience the local way of life just. take. it easy. We know, radical right? Relax and unwind with a spot of yoga on the beachfront. The open-air and sea-side vistas will have the travel stresses evaporating in no time. Grab that book you promised you’d read, pick a shaded sun bed and settle in for a day poolside. You won’t find any alcohol in town but if a cold beer over-looking the ocean is just what the doctor ordered, our hotel’s funky bar has got you covered. Or if all that lazing about has got you feeling restless, take the 25-minute walk to Anchor Point for sunset.
#5 Soak up the local life.
Want to delve a bit deeper into the culture here? Get up early and head down to Marché Poissons to watch the local fishermen bring in their daily catch and take a wander around the small village market. You could organise a local cooking class to master some common Berber dishes or head to the hamman for a bit of R&R. You’ll be 100% naked, just FYI. Feeling adventurous? Explore some of the mountain trails out of town – views from the top are worth all the sweaty bits. And when the surf isn’t pumping, roll over to the Taghazout Skatepark. Sitting on a hillside overlooking the ocean and village below, this local hangout is an awesome place for meeting new people, watching the pros turnout tricks and enjoying the sunset.
It may not have been on your radar before, but one thing is for sure, you’re not going to be bored here. Get a taste of Taghazout on our 10 Day Surf, Sand & Souks trip in 2020 – it’s new!
