Our Big Summer Adventure Part X: Discovering Northern Morocco's Best-Kept Secret
Hello friends!
Welcome to the next chapter of our Big Summer Adventure!
If you missed the previous posts, be sure to catch up on our adventures across Southern Europe in the Travel with Family section.
After exploring bustling Tangier, it was time for a change of pace.
By now, a pattern had emerged during our vacation: every busy city stay was followed by a few days somewhere quieter, closer to nature and the sea.
And so we left Tangier behind and set our sights on Cabo Negro.
I had heard so much about the beaches of northern Morocco, a source of great pride for locals.
Would they live up to their reputation?
Being born and raised in Greece, I have to admit I can be a rather demanding judge when it comes to beaches!
The Road to Cabo Negro
The drive from Tangier to Cabo Negro takes approximately one and a half to two hours, depending on traffic.
What fascinated me most was the landscape.
At times, I genuinely felt as though I was driving somewhere between Greece and Andalusia.
Rolling hills.
Olive trees.
Dry Mediterranean vegetation.
White houses dotting the landscape.
Had it not been for the Moroccan flags and the occasional mosque minaret rising in the distance, I could easily have forgotten which country I was in.
After passing through Tetouan, the scenery gradually changed.
A fresh sea breeze filled the air.
And suddenly, the Mediterranean appeared before us.
We had arrived.
Cabo Negro
Located on Morocco's northern Mediterranean coast, Cabo Negro is considered one of the country's most prestigious seaside resorts.
Popular among Moroccan families and affluent visitors, the area is known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, well-maintained properties, and relaxed atmosphere.
As we approached, I immediately noticed something unexpected.
Everything looked immaculate.
The streets were clean.
The gardens were beautifully maintained.
Security seemed present everywhere.
My husband explained that the area enjoys a special reputation within Morocco and attracts many prominent visitors, including members of the royal family.
It certainly showed.
Our Home for the Next Few Days
We stayed in Villa Rita, a residential complex located just steps from the beach.
The property revolved around a large swimming pool and landscaped gardens, creating a true holiday atmosphere.
Its location was exceptional.
Restaurants, cafés, beaches, and the nearby seaside town of M'Diq were all within easy reach.
Our first apartment was spacious and included a large living room, kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a pleasant balcony.
However, it was clearly showing its age and could have benefited from some renovations.
Fortunately, when members of my husband's family joined us the next day, we had the opportunity to move to another apartment within the complex and quickly realized that maintenance standards varied greatly from one owner to another.
Straight to the Beach
But before unpacking properly, we all had the same idea.
Beach first.
Everything else later.
The moment we dropped our suitcases, we headed directly toward the sea.
And this may surprise you.
The beach didn't feel exotic at all.
It felt Mediterranean.
Very Mediterranean.
The coastline immediately reminded me of Greece.
The water was crystal clear and incredibly calm.
Slightly cooler than I expected, but wonderfully refreshing under the hot summer sun.
I even went snorkeling and was amazed by how many fish I could see only a few meters from shore.
No wonder Morocco is famous for its seafood.
And just when I started forgetting I was in Morocco, a camel casually walked along the beach.
Alongside ice cream vendors and donut sellers.
A reminder that we were definitely not in Greece anymore!
Cabo Negro by Night
As the sun disappeared below the horizon, our thoughts turned toward food.
After refreshing ourselves and changing clothes, we set out to discover Cabo Negro after dark.
The resort transformed completely.
Beautiful light installations illuminated the streets.
Many glowed in Morocco's national colors, red and green.
The atmosphere felt festive, elegant, and surprisingly magical.
Almost Christmas-like.
But my husband had an even bigger surprise waiting for us.
A Dinner to Remember
He took us to Restaurant La Méditerranée in nearby M'Diq.
The restaurant is literally built over the sea.
And when I say "over the sea," I mean exactly that.
From our table, it felt as though we were dining aboard a ship.
The Mediterranean stretched endlessly beneath us.
The service was impeccable.
The setting unforgettable.
Suitable for a romantic evening.
Suitable for friends.
Perhaps not designed for families with three energetic children.
But as parents know, you work with what you have!
We ordered seafood.
Fresh.
Perfectly cooked.
Absolutely delicious.
I was convinced the evening couldn't possibly get any better.
I was wrong.
Dancing Under the Stars
A live band was performing.
And they were extraordinary.
The singers moved effortlessly from Nina Simone to Cesária Évora, from soul classics to contemporary hits.
The atmosphere was electric.
My husband and I couldn't resist.
For a few minutes, we forgot everything else.
The travel plans.
The responsibilities.
The schedules.
The emails waiting back home.
We simply danced.
The musicians noticed our enthusiasm and encouraged the entire family to join.
Soon all five of us were dancing together under the stars beside the Mediterranean Sea.
Celebrating nothing more complicated than the joy of being together.
It remains one of my favorite memories from our entire summer adventure.
And that is saying a lot!
Until Next Time...
Our first night in Cabo Negro could not have ended more perfectly.
But our exploration of northern Morocco was only beginning.
Join me in the next post as we continue discovering the region's famous beaches, hidden corners, and local treasures.
Stay tuned!
Love, Katerina
Continue the Journey
This summer adventure took us across Portugal and Spain before arriving in Marbella. If you'd like to follow our route from the beginning, you may enjoy reading:
• Lisbon
• Lagos
💕 Love family travel and beautiful discoveries?
Join the Mamavalues newsletter and receive my free travel packing list!
I also invite you to discover "The Dilemma", my debut novel exploring love, life choices, and personal transformation.
Comments