Before it became a well-known wellness resort, Taghazout was a haunt for surfers looking for quality waves in temperate waters during the winter season. In recent years, the town has developed to the rhythm of sporting competitions. The village even has its local idol, Ramzi Boukhiam, the first Moroccan surfer to take part in the Olympic Games, who has his own giant portrait on a wall in the village. But you don't need to be an experienced surfer to enjoy this sport, as the many spots along the coast are suitable for all levels. The Panorama and Banana Beach spots are ideal for beginners, while the more experienced surfers can opt for the waves at Tamri, Killer Point or Anchor Point, the world-renowned surfing spot of choice.
Taghazout (pronounced "Tarazout"), which has long remained a secret, was first frequented by the hippy community before becoming the seaside resort it is today. This typical little village on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, not far from Agadir in southern Morocco, has become a meeting place for surfers and yogis. It's also a panorama of magnificent, unspoilt golden beaches. An ideal destination for those who want to take their time and disconnect from everyday life. As well as its picture-postcard scenery, the village enjoys a summer climate throughout the winter. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy a holiday in a paradise-like setting, between zen and zouine (pretty), with the sole aim of relaxing.

La plage de Taghazout, Maroc
- © Jacques84250 / 123RFHeading for Morocco's surfing capital

Surfers on the beach, Taghazout, Morocco
- © Sewu / 123RFNumerous surf shops line the beaches and provide all the equipment you need for your surfing session. So you can enjoy the waves without having to carry too much gear. The shops also sell clothing and accessories. Most of the shops have a wonderful view over the bay.

Letting go with a yoga class
Taghazout is also the temple of yoga, a discipline that perfectly complements a day's surfing. It's not uncommon to see surfers swapping their boards for yoga mats at the end of the day. There's no better way to unwind and stretch out after a sports session than a yoga class at dusk... facing the sea.

yoga en bord de mer.
- © Nickolya / ShutterstockMany studios offer classes to suit everyone's needs. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi, you're bound to find something to suit you. The studios teach a range of practices: vinyasa, hatha and even aerial yoga, giving you the chance to try out a new activity. All in an idyllic setting in front of a sunset...

Treat yourself to a wellness break in a hotel with a spa
Luxury hotel complexes have sprung up on Taghazout Bay, which enjoys a strategic location facing the Atlantic Ocean. Some of these establishments have a spa or beauty centre and offer an exceptional wellness experience. There's nothing like a massage to round off the day. All in a pleasant setting overlooking the sea.

argan oil and massage products, Morocco
- © Luisapuccini / 123RFSunbathing on the beach
The town has more than enough surprises in store, as it is home to some of the prettiest beaches in Morocco. Escape the crowds of the Agadir coastline to find an authentic corner of paradise where the sun meets the ocean. Golden sand, ochre rocks and the sea as far as the eye can see. The beach is calm and the town has preserved the coast in its natural state. A few goats looking for vegetation between the rocks and souvenir sellers complete the picture.

Taghazout beach, Morocco
- © Swuerfel / ShtterstockAs the small village enjoys a privileged climate all year round, it is rare to see the thermometer fall below 20 degrees and the nights, even at the height of summer, are softened by a cool breeze. For a thirst-quenching break by the sea, small cafés with exceptional views of the coast serve fresh fruit juices or the famous mint tea. As night falls, the sound of the waves is occasionally accompanied by a live band. An unforgettable experience.

Traditional mint tea with cookies on a silver tray, Morocco
- © Olegbreslavtsev / 123RFStrolling through the old town
Taghazout's charm lies in its calm and small size. Long populated by slow-living hippies, tourism has arrived and brought a breath of modernity to the old town. Since then, a mixture of past and present has hung in the air of this small town, which has not lost its authenticity. Numerous bars and small restaurants with bohemian chic decor have taken up residence here and have become the haunt of surfers and yogis.

Traditional Moroccan staircases, Taghazout, Morocco
- © Matus Koprda / ShutterstockWhen it comes to local gastronomy, the village is full of places to try out during your stay. There's something for everyone. Small restaurants with simple, natural decor offer vegetarian cuisine with oriental touches, suitable for all diets. For a more traditional cuisine, some inns prepare typical Moroccan dishes in a bohemian chic decor or in a Berber atmosphere, just like at home!

Lamb tagine with prunes, apricots, almonds and sesame seeds
- © Bartosz Luczak / ShutterstockExploring the valley of paradise
If you're keen to get away from it all, you can take a dip in nature in the heart of the wild valley that the locals generously nickname Paradise Valley, such is its beauty. Located around 30 kilometres from the city, this oasis boasts numerous pools, waterfalls and breathtaking scenery. You have to take a steep path lined with cedar trees to arrive in a setting worthy of a Western film.

Paradise Valley, Taghazout, Morocco
- © Swuerfel / ShutterstockThe landscape is teeming with aromatic and medicinal plants, a veritable open-air pharmacy. Local people come to harvest thyme to make herbal tea, but also endemic fruit such as the argan, from which argan oil is made. Argan oil is renowned for its nourishing and regenerating properties. It is used in cosmetics to moisturise the skin, nourish the hair and has anti-wrinkle properties. This is the perfect opportunity to take a hike with a local guide and benefit from all his knowledge.

An argan tree, Taghazout, Morocco.
- © Lénar Musin / ShutterstockEditor's note :
This destination enjoys a relatively pleasant climate all year round. However, the best time to visit is from April to November. Despite the country's heat at the height of summer, the seaside resort's location on the Atlantic Ocean provides a refreshing breeze.