Despite a wave of development, Tangier still retains the raffish charm it enjoyed as an International Zone from 1912 to 1956. Its radiant light, picturesque medina and fine views over the straights of Gibraltar have attracted artists and writers from Matisse to Paul Bowles and the Beat poets.
...continued from Tangier page.
Tangier has a mythology all of its own. In part, this is derived from its strategic position on the edge of the Mediterranean. But mostly it comes from being a jumping off point for oddballs, eccentrics and migrants. It is neither Europe nor Africa, but somewhere in between. With the recent upsurge in trade and tourism, Tangier’s faded hotels, corniche and beach area are seeing a new lease of life. The Grand Socco, the entrance to the medina, is a great place to take stock of the city’s charms – and its characters.
The coastline around Tangier is being rapidly developed, with huge resorts springing up on the Mediterranean side. However, you can make an interesting day trip to the Hispanic enclave of Ceuta, a vestige of the Spanish empire complete with tapas and churches. To the west of Tangier, on the north-western tip of Africa, Cap Spartel is a great vantage point to sit and stare at the Atlantic. In the Roman times (and indeed until the voyages of exploration of the 15th century) this point, near the site of the fabled Pillars of Hercules, marked the limits of geographical knowledge. Outside, there was ne plus ultra: nothing further beyond.
The Lawrence of Morocco map displays the locations of the destinations and accommodation that we have selected and visited; for each item, hovering over or clicking the marker will display a short summary and photo of that place or hotel, and hotel pricing. Follow the links in the info box to the full page listing which has much more information.
Note that the online map offers both a satellite view (click satellite in the top right) and, for some locations, a street level view (Drag the person in the top left onto the map). These let you explore the country; and when you wish to explore in person, or if you have any questions about the places you see, give our staff a call, or request a quote. Our staff regularly visit the places and accommodation that we feature.
When you book a holiday with us we will provide full driving instructions for reaching your accommodation, where necessary; these can be used by yourself, or you could enjoy the luxury of a driver. Alternatively we will arrange private (car rather than coach) transfers for you; helicopter transfers are also possible for some destinations.
We loved our vacation in Morocco.
Hi Max,
We loved our vacation in Morocco. The trek completely lived up to our expectations and the third day in the gorge exceeded them. The accommodation was very comfortable, the food was fresh and healthy and, considering the circumstances, very well prepared. However, what made the trip was how knowledgeable, professional and friendly our guide Abdellah Allali was, we …
Deputy Editor of Harper’s Bazaar, Sasha Slater, travelled with her family to Marrakech and Ouirgane with Lawrence of Morocco in April 2014.
We really know Morocco and have had the pleasure of making many people's dream trips become reality over the years. It has been our privilege to be asked to manage holidays, weddings and productions for so many fantastic and discerning clients. We remain small and dedicated to providing excellent honest advice to enable you to sit back, relax and enjoy the fun bits without having to manage the unpredictability of this fascinating country.
If you want it done right, look no further!
