The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in El Larache: Morocco’s Hidden Coastal Gem
Are you looking for an authentic Moroccan experience away from the tourist crowds? Larache (El Larache), a charming coastal town on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, offers an intriguing blend of Moorish, Spanish, and French influences that few travelers discover. This comprehensive Larache Morocco guide will take you through the best attractions, hidden gems, and practical tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Often overlooked in favor of more famous Moroccan destinations, Larache rewards visitors with stunning archaeological sites, a picturesque medina, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere that captures the essence of coastal Morocco. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, this guide covers everything you need to know about what to see in Larache.
Historical & Archaeological Sites: Stepping Back in Time
Lixus Ruins: An Ancient Phoenician Marvel
The Lixus ruins stand as one of Morocco’s most significant yet undervisited archaeological sites. Located just 4 km northeast of Larache on a hill overlooking the Loukkos River, this ancient city dates back to the 8th century BCE when Phoenician settlers first established it.
What makes Lixus truly special is its remarkable historical layers – Phoenician foundations, Roman expansions, and later Islamic modifications all visible within the same site. As you wander through the partially excavated ruins, you’ll encounter:
- A well-preserved Roman amphitheater with stunning river views
- Ancient garum factories (fish sauce production facilities) that once exported this luxury condiment throughout the Roman Empire
- Intricate mosaic floors depicting mythological scenes
- Thermal baths that showcase sophisticated Roman engineering
Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning when the light is perfect for photography and the temperature is cool. The site is most atmospheric when you can hear birds singing among the ancient stones without crowds.
Practical Information:
- Location: 4 km northeast of Larache (Map)
- Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM daily
- Entry Fee: 10 dirhams (approximately $1 USD)
- Time Needed: 1-2 hours
- Getting There: Petit taxi from Larache center (15-20 dirhams) or a pleasant walk if you’re up for it
Spanish Old Town (Ensanche): A Colonial Time Capsule
The Spanish quarter of Larache, known locally as the Ensanche, features some of the most well-preserved colonial architecture in Morocco. Walking through its grid-pattern streets feels like stepping into a time machine to early 20th century Spain.
The neighborhood was developed during the Spanish Protectorate period (1912-1956) and showcases a fascinating mix of Art Deco, Modernist, and Neo-Moorish architectural styles. Key highlights include:
- The former Spanish Consulate building with its impressive facade
- Teatro Español, a charming theater that occasionally hosts cultural events
- Iglesia de San José, a Catholic church that remains an active place of worship
- Colorful residential buildings with ornate balconies and tilework
Walking Route Suggestion: Start at Place de la Libération, head north along Rue Ibn Toumart, turn right onto Rue Mohammed V, then circle back via Rue Moulay Abdelaziz to see the most impressive buildings.
Insider Tip: Look up! The most beautiful architectural details in the Ensanche are often found on upper floors and rooflines.
Medina & Kasbah: The Heart of Old Larache
Larache’s medina may be smaller than those in Fez or Marrakech, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in authenticity and charm. Free from the tourist crowds that fill Morocco’s more famous old cities, Larache’s medina offers a glimpse into everyday Moroccan life.
The ancient kasbah (fortress) forms the highest point of the medina, with its thick walls once protecting the city from maritime invasions. Today, it offers spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean and the Loukkos River estuary.
Key features to explore include:
- Bab el Khemis: The main gate to the medina, featuring traditional Moroccan craftsmanship
- Kasbah walls and ramparts: Offering panoramic views of the city and ocean
- Narrow, winding alleys: Lined with modest homes painted in blue and white
- Small local shops: Selling everyday items rather than tourist souvenirs
Insider Tip: The best time to explore the medina is late afternoon when the light creates a golden glow on the whitewashed walls. Follow the sounds of children playing to discover hidden squares where locals gather.
Jewish & Christian Cemeteries: Testaments to Larache’s Diverse Heritage
Larache’s multicultural history is poignantly represented in its well-preserved Jewish and Christian cemeteries. The Jewish cemetery, with its distinctive white tombs, reflects the once-thriving Jewish community that lived in Larache for centuries before largely emigrating in the mid-20th century.
The Christian cemetery contains graves of Spanish, Portuguese, and other European settlers who made Larache their home during the colonial era. Some tombs date back to the 17th century.
Practical Information:
- Location: Both cemeteries are located on the outskirts of town
- Visiting Hours: Daylight hours only
- Entry: Free, but donations for maintenance are appreciated
- Respectful Visiting: Cover shoulders and knees; ask permission before taking photos
Coastal & Natural Attractions: Embracing the Atlantic
Larache Beach: Where Locals Unwind
The main beach of Larache stretches for several kilometers along the Atlantic coast, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the medina. Unlike Morocco’s more tourist-oriented beaches, Larache Beach provides an authentic experience where you’ll primarily see local families enjoying their leisure time.
The beach features golden sand and impressive waves, making it suitable for:
- Leisurely walks along the shoreline
- Swimming (although be cautious of strong currents)
- Fishing (a popular local pastime)
- Sunset watching
Best Spots: Head to the northern section of the beach where several small cafes offer refreshments and rental chairs. The area near the lighthouse offers the most dramatic views.
Insider Tip: Visit during the early evening when local families come out for the paseo (evening stroll) and impromptu football games spring up on the sand.
Port Area: Maritime Heritage
Larache’s working port provides a fascinating glimpse into the local fishing industry that has sustained the city for centuries. The colorful fishing boats, bustling fish market, and constant activity make this area a photographer’s dream.
Early risers can witness the morning catch being brought in around 7 AM, when local restaurants come to purchase the freshest seafood. The port area is also home to several excellent no-frills seafood restaurants where you can enjoy the catch of the day at very reasonable prices.
Insider Tip: Ask to try “chern,” a local fish specialty often prepared with a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and Moroccan spices.
Cultural Experiences: Local Life & Traditions
Place de la Libération (Plaza de España): The City’s Living Room
This central square serves as the heart of Larache’s social life. Originally designed as Plaza de España during the Spanish Protectorate, it remains the city’s main gathering place where locals come to socialize, play chess, or simply watch the world go by.
The square is surrounded by arcaded buildings housing cafes, restaurants, and shops. The central fountain and carefully maintained gardens provide a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation.
Insider Tip: Grab a mint tea at Café Central on the square’s east side and observe the fascinating mix of people that pass through this urban crossroads.
Central Market (Souk): A Feast for the Senses
The vibrant central market of Larache offers an immersive cultural experience and the perfect opportunity to interact with locals. Unlike tourist-oriented markets in larger cities, Larache’s souk primarily serves local residents, making it an authentic experience.
Here you’ll find:
- Fresh produce from the fertile Loukkos Valley
- Locally caught fish and seafood
- Aromatic spices and olives
- Handmade crafts and household items
Best Times to Visit: Early mornings (7-9 AM) for the freshest produce and most active atmosphere. Avoid Friday afternoons when many stalls close for prayers.
Bargaining Tips: Prices are generally fair, but gentle negotiation is expected. Start by offering about 70% of the stated price and work toward a compromise.
Local Cafés & Tea Houses: Moroccan Hospitality
Larache’s café culture reflects its unique blend of Moroccan and Spanish influences. Several charming establishments offer the perfect setting to relax and observe local life.
Recommended Spots:
- Café Ahlen: Known for its rooftop terrace with panoramic views
- Café Madrid: A Spanish-style café with excellent pastries
- Café Loukkos: Popular with locals for its authentic Moroccan tea service
Food Experiences: Savoring Local Flavors
Must-Try Local Dishes
Larache’s cuisine blends traditional Moroccan flavors with Spanish influences and abundant seafood from the Atlantic:
- Seafood Tagine: A local specialty featuring fresh fish, shrimp, and calamari slow-cooked with preserved lemons, olives, and saffron
- Paella de Mariscos: A reminder of Spanish influence, this seafood rice dish is prepared with a Moroccan twist
- Loukkos Valley Vegetables: The fertile river valley produces exceptional vegetables featured in many local dishes
- Fresh Grilled Sardines: A simple but delicious street food, often served with bread and harissa
Recommended Restaurants
| Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurante Antonio | Seafood | $$ | Spanish-Moroccan fusion in a historic building |
| Café Restaurant du Port | Grilled fish | $ | No-frills setting but supremely fresh seafood |
| Restaurant Riad | Traditional Moroccan | $$ | Beautiful courtyard setting |
| El Badia | Tagines | $ | Where locals eat, authentic atmosphere |
Insider Tip: For the ultimate local experience, head to the port area around 6 PM and look for small restaurants with no formal menu. Simply point to the fresh catch of the day, and they’ll prepare it perfectly with minimal fuss.
Beyond Larache: Exploring Morocco’s Diverse Landscapes
While Larache itself offers plenty to explore, it also serves as an excellent base for discovering more of Morocco’s diverse attractions. Many travelers don’t realize that Larache provides convenient access to everything from pristine beaches to mountain villages and desert landscapes.
Excursions and Day Trips
Sahara Discovery, a respected local tour company based in El Larache, offers expertly guided excursions that showcase the region’s incredible diversity:
- Moulay Bousselham Lagoon (Half-day): Bird watching paradise just 30 minutes from Larache
- Chefchaouen Blue City (Day trip): Explore the famous blue-washed streets of this mountain town
- Asilah Arts Town (Half-day): Visit the whitewashed coastal town known for its murals and annual arts festival
- Tetouan’s UNESCO Medina (Day trip): Discover one of Morocco’s most authentic old cities
Insider Tip: Sahara Discovery’s local guides are particularly knowledgeable about Larache’s historical connection to these surrounding areas, offering cultural context you won’t get from larger tour operators.
Multi-Day Adventures
For those with more time, Sahara Discovery offers several multi-day tours departing from Larache:
- Atlantic Coast Explorer (2-3 days): Journey along the stunning coastline from Larache to Essaouira
- Northern Morocco Circuit (3-4 days): Explore the cultural riches of Tangier, Chefchaouen, and the Rif Mountains
- Desert Dreams (4-5 days): The ultimate adventure from Larache to the Sahara dunes of Merzouga
Practical Information:
- Location: Sahara Discovery office is located near Place de la Libération
- Booking: Reservations recommended at least 24 hours in advance for day trips, 3+ days for multi-day tours
- Languages: Guides speak Arabic, French, Spanish, and English
- Pricing: Day trips start from 400 dirhams per person, multi-day tours from 1,200 dirhams (including transportation, guides, and accommodation)
What sets Sahara Discovery apart is their commitment to sustainable tourism practices and their deep connections with local communities throughout Morocco. Their guides provide cultural and historical context that transforms a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful travel experience.
Beyond the Attractions: Practical Travel Guide
Getting to Larache
Larache is conveniently located along Morocco’s northern Atlantic coast, making it accessible from several major cities:
- From Tangier: 85 km (1.5 hours) by grand taxi or bus
- From Asilah: 30 km (30 minutes) by train or grand taxi
- From Rabat: 200 km (2.5 hours) by train to Asilah, then taxi to Larache
Recommended Option: CTM buses offer the most comfortable and reliable service to Larache from major cities. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ctm.ma.
Getting Around Larache
The compact size of Larache makes it ideal for exploration on foot. Most attractions are within a 20-minute walk of the center.
- Walking: The best way to experience the medina and Spanish quarter
- Petit Taxis: Abundant and affordable (starting at 7 dirhams), useful for reaching Lixus ruins or the beach
- Grand Taxis: For trips to surrounding areas or villages
Best Time to Visit
Larache enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures year-round:
- April to June: Ideal conditions with warm days, cool evenings, and minimal rainfall
- July to August: Peak season with warmer temperatures (28-32°C) and more domestic tourists
- September to October: Perfect for swimming with warm sea temperatures and fewer crowds
- November to March: Occasional rainfall but mild temperatures (15-20°C) and very few tourists
Accommodation Options
Larache offers limited but adequate accommodation options:
- Hotel Espana: Mid-range option in the Spanish quarter with colonial charm
- Riad Dar Larache: Traditional Moroccan guesthouse in the medina
- Pension Andalucia: Budget-friendly option near the central square
Insider Tip: Accommodation options in Larache are limited, so booking in advance is recommended, especially during summer months. The Sahara Discovery office can assist with reservations if you’re combining your stay with one of their tours.
Safety & Cultural Notes
Larache is generally a safe destination with few concerns for travelers:
- Safety: Crime rates are low, but standard precautions apply
- Women Travelers: Conservative dress is appreciated, especially in the medina
- Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people
- Language: Basic Arabic or French phrases are helpful, though some locals also speak Spanish
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi: Available in most accommodations and cafés
- SIM Cards: Easily purchased at Maroc Telecom shops (passport required)
- Internet Cafés: Several available near the central square
Sample Itineraries
Larache in One Day
Morning:
- Explore the Spanish Quarter and Place de la Libération
- Visit the Central Market
Afternoon:
- Discover the Lixus Ruins
- Explore the Medina and Kasbah
Evening:
- Enjoy sunset at Larache Beach
- Dinner at a seafood restaurant by the port
Larache Weekend Getaway
Day 1:
- Morning: Spanish Quarter and Place de la Libération
- Afternoon: Lixus Ruins
- Evening: Dinner in the medina
Day 2:
- Morning: Central Market and shopping
- Afternoon: Beach time and port area
- Evening: Seafood dinner with sunset views
Extended Larache Adventure (5 Days)
Days 1-2: Explore Larache using the weekend itinerary above
Days 3-5: Join Sahara Discovery’s Northern Morocco Circuit tour to experience the best of the region’s diverse landscapes and cultures
Insider Tip: If you’re short on planning time, Sahara Discovery offers customized itineraries that combine the best of Larache with carefully selected regional highlights based on your interests and available time.
Conclusion: Why Larache Deserves Your Visit
Larache offers a refreshingly authentic glimpse into Moroccan coastal life, free from the tourist crowds that fill more famous destinations. Its blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty makes it a perfect destination for travelers seeking to experience the real Morocco.
Whether you come for the ancient Lixus ruins, the charming Spanish colonial architecture, the vibrant medina, or simply to enjoy fresh seafood by the Atlantic, Larache rewards visitors with meaningful connections to Morocco’s past and present. And with local experts like Sahara Discovery making it easy to explore beyond the town itself, Larache serves as an ideal gateway to Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
Have you visited Larache? Share your favorite experiences in the comments below! Did I miss any hidden gems in this Larache Morocco guide? Let other travelers know your best tips for exploring this coastal treasure.
Planning a trip to northern Morocco? Don’t miss our guides to nearby Asilah, Tangier, and Chefchaouen to create the perfect itinerary!
