Things To See In Agadir
Agadir sightseen – Things to see in Agadir?:
Agadir is considered the regional capital of Morocco and lies to the south of the Atlas Mountains. It is the shortened version of the Berber word “Agadir n Irir” which means, the fortified granary. It is a favorite with holidaymakers due to modern construction and the open spaces. The beaches are serene and favorable for water sports. There are several resorts where you may have leisurely accommodation and experience the superb hospitality of the Moroccans.
The origin of this name is not entirely known. Agadir may be some link to a fort built by a Portuguese merchant north of town in the year 1505. It was later owned by King Manuel I of Portugal, who changed it into a garrison city. It was the time when the Agadir port was a major port on the sea towards Sudan and Guinea. In 1541 it was captured by the Irish Saad. However, in the 17th Century it was under the control of Berber Kingdom of Souss and later was conquered by Moulay Ismail which was the golden era of Agadir. Sisi Abdellah Mohammed closed the port and founded the new Essouira, which saw its glory weaning. In 1911 the Agadir Crisis between France and Germany led to France bringing a protectorate over Morocco. The worst moments of the city were the 15 seconds on the midnight of February 29, 1960 when an earthquake destroyed the whole city killing thousands. It destroyed the entire ancient Kasbah. However the destruction was taken as a challenge by King Mohammed V of Morocco to rebuild the city. Agadir was rebuilt 3 kms south of the original site.
Agadir is a fine modern city now with wide avenues, blooming gardens, superb hotels, first grade airport and a magnificent port. Other than this the first attraction for the tourists are the splendid beaches lined with lively resorts. The beaches are the most popular with the town lacking typical tourist attraction like museums, ancient monuments etc. However, you can have a great stay at one of the hotels in town and take day trips to some interesting sites nearby. You would find the cliff road that flanks the old Kasbah of the 16th century and overlooking the pristine blue waters of the oceans very interesting. The colorful valleys of the Great Souss and the slopes of the majestic Anti-Atlas are a must visit. The kingdom of Morocco is blessed with bright sunshine for about 300 days of the year. Adagir beaches are the perfect location to catch some sun, go sailing, wind surfing, horse riding or simply lounge in the shade of the Eucalyptus around here. There is nothing as refreshing as watching the beautiful blue waters of the ocean, sipping a fresh fruit cocktail with the mild smell of the Eucalyptus.
Things To See In Agadir
Hike up to the atmospheric Agadir Oufella ruins, also known as the Kasbah, sitting on a hilltop overlooking the city’s fishing port and beach. Explore the remains of this ancient fortress, built in 1540 to protect Agadir from Portuguese invasions and later destroyed by an earthquake in 1960. Although only the crumbling walls and entry portal of the site remain, it offers views over Agadir, which are especially majestic at sunset.
As Morocco’s favourite coastal destination, Agadir has a long stretch of honey-coloured sand perfect for basking. Unlike the beach at nearby Essaouira, which is battered by Atlantic winds almost year-round, this one is sheltered, with waves that break far out to sea. Expect pristine sands and lifeguard patrols in the peak summer months. Arrange a boat trip along the coast, book surf lessons and enjoy a meal accompanied by sea views on the buzzing promenade.
See the rare Nile crocodile at this wildlife reserve, just east of Agadir. These animals once thrived in Morocco but have largely been wiped out in the wild by hunters. The crocodiles live in huge enclosures that mimic their natural habitat; Crocoparc also has a laboratory and nursery where you might catch a glimpse of hatchlings. When you’ve had your fill of wildlife spotting, stroll around the 4ha (10 acre) botanical garden filled with more than 300 plant species.
Birds Valley, a green space in the centre of Agadir, is free to enter and makes a great spot for a family outing. It features a playground, a walk-through aviary and enclosures where you can spot parrots, flamingos, deer and even kangaroos. The park is well shaded and filled with magnolias and banana trees, with a small fountain at its heart; chill out with a cold drink at one of the cafes clustered around the main gate.
