Travelling by bus from Marrakesh to Essaioura past endless olive groves was my introduction to the Moroccan countryside. It was the harvest season, so they were a hive of activity.

The Medina of Essaioura was compact and enclosed by stout walls. Within, the souqs were more laid back than in Marrakesh, and especially colourful in the collonaded parts. The fortified port also held a lot of interest, especially the seafood grill restaurants.