BEACHWATER SPORTSThe real draw of Sidi Ifni is its unique atmosphere, which has lured many a passing foreigner to
settle. The small old Spanish part of town is one of the main attractions. At its heart is Place
Hassan II (often still called Plaza de España), the colonial centrepiece. The large square with a
small park in the middle is surrounded by the main administration buildings: law courts (former
church) Offline map Google map , royal palace Offline map Google map , former Spanish
consulate Offline map Google map and town hall Offline map Google map , mostly in grand art-deco
style.
Other interesting remnants of the colonial era include the Hôtel Bellevue , also on Place
Hassan II, a nearby lighthouse and, next to Hôtel Suerte Loca, the cliff-top ship house
Offline map Google map , which served as the Spanish Naval Secretariat.
There’s also some funky art-deco architecture in the streets east of Place Hassan II. The
post office on Ave Mohammed V still has a letterbox Offline map Google map outside marked
‘Correos – Avion/Ordinario’ (Post – Air Mail/ Ordinary).
Beach
The beach is big and rarely busy, though not always clean. At the south end is the port: Ifni’s
economy is based on small-scale fishing, with most of the catch sold in Agadir. The odd
construction just offshore is the remains of an old land-sea conveyor, which was used to take
cargo from ships to the old Spanish port.
Surfing
There’s some excellent surfing here, with three surf hire shops, including Sahara Surf Shop
Offline map Google map ( 0667 48 95 11) , near Hôtel Suerte Loca – which is also a good place
to pick up local knowledge.
LIVIN’ LA SIDI LOCA
Jean-Pierre Esatoglu, originally from Switzerland, restored Auberge Figue de Barbarie ( Click here ) and his own house in Sidi
Ifni.
What do you like about this part of Morocco? The gorgeous landscapes and the warm and friendly temperament of its
inhabitants. There’s a particular, genuine atmosphere to this place.
What were the biggest challenges involved in restoring the auberge? The state of the house, the complexity of the
project, the remote place in the countryside where the hotel is located, and getting involved and being respected in the different
cultural and social context of Sidi Ouarsik.
Best activities? This area offers you many tour options – hiking, biking, car or donkey tours – in between the seaside,
countryside and desert. It’s also the ideal place to relax out of the stress of modern life, and to practise surfing and fishing.
Favourite walk? Strolling on Sidi Ouarsik beach or walking in the countryside – with a guide of course.
Favourite restaurant? Café-Restaurant Nomad ( Click here ).