Explore Morocco’s Mediterranean Coastline
The Mediterranean coastline of Morocco includes the important seaports of Tangier and Tétouan, as well as a host of spectacular beaches and seaside towns popular with locals and visitors to this beautiful North African country. Visitors traveling from Europe by ferry will land in Tangier which is located a mere 20 miles from Spain across the strait of Gibraltar. Offering a curious blend of Spanish, French and North African culture, Tangier has long held a special allure and been the inspiration for talented and famous people, including French artist Henri-Émile-Benoît Matisse, American artist and decorative arts designer Louis Comfort Tiffany, and citizen of Tangier Antonio Fuentes, as well as writers Paul Bowles, William Burroughs, Tennessee Williams and Moroccan literary figures Mohamed Choukri, Abdeslam Boulaich, Driss Ben Hamed Charhadi, Mohamed Mrabet, and Ahmed Yacoubi.
A short distance inland from Tangier is the charming mountain town of Chefchaouen, known particularly for its winding alleyways, lined with white-washed buildings featuring blue doors and trim, set against the backdrop of the majestic Rif Mountains. Visitors to this Moroccan town can enjoy a hike into the scenic Rif Mountains, or up the Jebel al-Kalaa peak overlooking the town. The Talasemtane national park is also close by. The medina has plenty of arts and crafts on offer, with items made from leather being the specialty of artisans in the town, many of whom will make special request items.
The city of Tétouan is the other major port of Morocco located on the Mediterranean and is an interesting place to explore. The medina is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List and artisans can be viewed working at their chosen trade, including carpet weaving, jewelry making and manufacturing leather items. The royal palace of Tétouan is situated at one of the entrances to the medina. Outside the city is the spectacular new leisure development called Tamuda Bay – a low-lying wetland sanctuary which offers a range of accommodation options and a host of watersport activities.
The Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla are also located along the Mediterranean coast of Morocco. Although on the Moroccan mainland, the two enclaves are part of Spain and subject to the rules and regulations of that country. Border crossings are strictly regulated.
