Our first destination in Morocco is the coastal town of Asilah, located an hour’s drive from the Tanger-Med port. There are several cities along the Atlantic coast, but Asilah stands out far above the rest with its beautiful Medina. In this article, we’ll take you through the stunning city and tell you why this place should be on your list for a camper trip through Morocco.
History and Architecture
Asilah, also known as Arzila, has a fascinating history dating back to antiquity. Originally founded by the Phoenicians, the city has been ruled by various powers over the centuries, including the Romans and the Portuguese. The influence of these cultures is still visible in the city’s architecture.
The most striking feature of Asilah is its well-preserved medina, surrounded by imposing ramparts dating back to the 15th century. Within these walls are narrow streets, colorful houses, and traditional markets, making a stroll through the medina an enchanting experience. The historic buildings and squares tell tales of bygone eras, while the cobbled streets exude a sense of timeless beauty.
Art and Culture
Asilah is also renowned for its vibrant art scene, which thrives year-round. Each year, the city hosts the Asilah Arts Festival. Artists from all around the world will gather here. The festival takes place during the summer months. The whitewashed walls of the medina serve as a canvas for international artists who create beautiful murals and graffiti, turning the city into an open-air gallery. During your walk through the streets, you’ll find beautiful art and paintings everywhere, which you can take home as souvenirs.
Culinary Delights in Asilah
A visit to Asilah wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the delicious Moroccan cuisine. The local markets offer an abundance of fresh products, herbs, and spices used to prepare flavorful dishes. From tagines to couscous, Asilah’s culinary traditions reflect the rich flavors of the region. We personally enjoyed a delicious couscous at the typical Moroccan restaurant Dar Al Maghrebia, where you can dine in a cozy green street.
Camping Asilah
If you’re traveling to Asilah by camper, there are several options for parking. Since it’s our first night in Morocco, we decide to go to the Echrigui campsite. Here, you pay 70dh, which is about 7 euros, and the facilities are quite basic. We must admit that the campsites further south are much better, so don’t be discouraged if you find it somewhat disappointing. You can order a tagine at the campsite, and they also sell phone cards, which is very handy when you arrive in Morocco.
In addition to a campsite, you can also choose to park closer to the medina. For 50dh, you can park next to the wall and the port, so you don’t have to walk as far. The parking lot is very safe as it is guarded. During your travels in Morocco, you’ll notice that you’ll come across these types of parking spots more often. Parking attendants are often not legal, but it’s still a good idea to offer them a small contribution as they really keep an eye on the camper.
Conclusion
Asilah, with its rich history, artistic flair, and culinary delights, is a must-visit destination along the Moroccan coast. Whether you’re wandering through the ancient medina, enjoying the colorful murals, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Asilah leaves a lasting impression. This city, with its unique blend of tradition and creativity, embodies the enchanting beauty of Morocco. We also conclude that Asilah is a great city to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture, as cities further south become more intense.
If you’re looking for more inspiration for your trip to Morocco, take a look at one of our other Morocco blogs.