Coasting in Morocco; Azemmour and the Riad Azama

One of the best off the beaten path destinations in Morocco is the town of Azemmour located along the Atlantic coast just north of El Jadida. It is a small town with few tourists that feels like the real Morocco. There is an exceptional riad here in which to make your base while visiting this overlooked yet charming town. The Portuguese built the town tow miles inland along the Oum er Rbia river as a fortified trading post in 1513. The Portuguese also built the circuit of large ochre walls around the medina which was heavily damaged thanks to the massive Lisbon earthquake of 1755 that sent a tsunami upriver wiping out much of the town. Azemmour looks like it has been neglected and overlooked for a long time, however, the faded and crumbling aspect of the town are part of its appeal. There is a nearby beach as well as the very interesting city of El Jadida nearby. Except for two riads there are no tourists restaurants or facilities. One of the riads, however, is reason enough to stay in Azemmour. The Riad Azama is an 18th century traditional home handsomely restored with 6 rooms located around a lovely court yard. This is one of the most beautiful Riads we have seen in Morocco. Riad Azama 17 impasse Ben Tahar (ancienne medina), Azemmour 24100, Morocco