Domaine du Val d'Argan

Essaouira


In 1994 Charles Melia left Châteauneuf-du-Pape to create Morocco’s southernmost winery, 20km from Essaouira; since then it's grown from five to 50 hectares. After a vineyard tour (tastings from Dh50), lunch on traditional dishes with a twist along with a tasting of five wines (Dh330), including Moroccan speciality gris, all with wonderful views over the countryside. Bookings essential.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Essaouira attractions

1. Had Draa Souq

2.96 MILES

The Sunday market at Had Draa, 30km from Essaouira, is the largest in the region, where animals and produce have been traded for centuries. Early risers…

2. Bbio Organic Farm

4.9 MILES

This idyllic organic farm makes a perfect day out or a pit stop on your way to Marrakesh. Tours (bookings essential) are with the owner Khalid, who will…

3. Souq Joutiya

12.57 MILES

Turn left outside the Bab Doukkala and around 15 minutes later you’ll reach the industrial quarter’s abandoned warehouses. Take a left past salvaged…

4. Essaouira Beach

13.22 MILES

Essaouira’s wide, sandy beach is great for walking and kitesurfing, but sunbathing and swimming can be difficult when the winds are strong. For swimming,…

5. Fish Souq

13.29 MILES

Join the locals and street cats picking up their fresh fish at this small market. For a cheap lunch, buy half a dozen sardines, and for around Dh10 one of…

6. Simon Attias Synagogue

13.47 MILES

Behind the imposing wooden door (there's no sign) lies a beautifully restored 19th-century synagogue, filled with the scent of fragrant cedar wood. In the…

7. Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah Museum

13.48 MILES

Housed in an old riad, this somewhat fusty museum has a small collection of jewellery, costumes, embroidery, woodcarving and weapons from the region. Its…

8. Medina

13.5 MILES

Surrounded by dramatic, wave-lashed ramparts, the narrow streets, hassle-free souqs, street vendors and vibrant galleries of Essaouira's walled medina…