Asilah

Asilah, where have you been hiding?  Only 1:45 north of Rabat!  This small town packs a big punch with a whitewashed medina filled with colorful art and Berber rugs.  Not to mention, a secluded beach literally off the beaten path and just a short drive outside the medina walls.

We enjoyed strolling through the surprisingly calm medina filled with art galleries and colorful murals.  Upon returning to the riad, our host gave us directions to their "virgin" beach.  We hopped back in the car and turned right off the road at the watermelon stand only to come to a halt in the middle of a SUPER packed market (only on Thursdays.. of course the day we chose to go).  After spending 30+ minutes inching through the chaos, we took the Highlander off-roading for about 10 minutes before discovering the unexpected jewel below.  Since the beach is a bit difficult to get to, it offers a more secluded atmosphere that is well taken care of.  It was definitely worth the stressful but adventurous journey!

On our second visit to Asilah we chose to stay outside the medina in a Berber village.  Google maps showed the hotel directly off of the main road...ha.  The tight squeeze down a bumpy dirt road may have left a few dings on the car, but they blend in well with our other car war wounds from the past year.  The hut-like hotel below was super charming and offered a fun, new experience for the family.  Of course, Gabriel made an immediate friend with a Berber boy sporting a Barcelona jersey.

Asilah, we look forward to seeing you again soon!