If you’re on the hunt for a November holiday destination that offers warmth without the long-haul flight, Agadir in Morocco is a top choice.
Located on North Africa’s southern coast, this gem boasts stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes and a rich culture waiting to be discovered.
With just over four hours of flight time from the UK, it’s an exotic escape without the lengthy travel. The average maximum temperature in November is a balmy 25C, perfect for soaking up the sun on the warm sands.
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But Agadir wasn’t always the picturesque spot it is today – it had to be entirely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1960. The hilltop kasbah was one of the few structures to survive and still overlooks the beaches today.
Since then, Agadir has been beautifully restored, with many modern buildings paying homage to its history. Expect to see stunning Arabic architecture, ornate mosques, and a wealth of museums and art galleries.
One of the most popular is the Musée du Patrimoine Amazigh d’Agadir, where you can explore both modern and traditional artworks and delve into the unique Berber culture, reports the Express.
The agreeable weather ensures that no matter when you choose to visit, it’s likely to be warm. The coastline extends over 10 kilometres, making it an excellent beach destination with a plethora of sun-soaked promenades to select from – whether your preference is to eat, drink, relax or indulge in all three.
However, if you’re seeking something slightly more out of the ordinary, then a trip to the Crocopark is worth considering. Here, you can observe Nile crocodiles lounging by a pond, with iguanas, snakes and monkeys also calling this park home.
According to Lonely Planet, reaching there is straightforward – a shuttle bus departs from Uniprix in the town centre daily at 9.30am and 2.30pm, returning you three hours later. As for the culinary delights in Agadir, there are numerous traditional Moroccan dishes that you’ll undoubtedly want to try.
Renowned for its delicious spice palette, the cuisine in this region is among the most famous – and rightly so. Sardines are a must-try dish in Agadir, as this coastal city boasts one of the Atlantic’s most significant sardine ports.
For a more substantial meal, tangir – also known as bachelor’s stew – is recommended. This dish, made with lamb or beef and flavoured with turmeric, cumin, garlic, lemon pickle and occasionally ras al hanut, is oven-roasted in a clay pot called a tangia, which is where it derives its name.
And while you might have tucked into couscous at your dining table, the flavours of couscous in Morocco are reportedly on a whole different level. Travel experts at Barcelo rave about its ‘far more special’ taste and recommend: “This is definitely a dish you have to try in Agadir after a long day on the beach or surfing because it’s traditional, delicious and nutritious.”