Tahadart

In the coastal town of Asilah (15 minutes' drive), whitewashed houses provide a canvas for colourful murals that are produced annually as part of the Asilah Arts Festival. Get lost in the town’s maze of narrow alleyways, before checking out the well-preserved fortifications, built by the Portuguese in the 15th century, and perusing the stalls at the weekly souk. See if you can spot the Africa-shaped opening facing the sea at the Hercules Caves (40 minutes). This cave complex, which also includes carved walls and a section decorated with Greek statuary, sits just south of the Réserve du Cap Spartel, with rugged coastal walks and lush gardens. In Tangier, the Corniche promenade has far-reaching views over the bay and the Strait of Gibraltar. There are seafood restaurants around the port area, and interesting sights in the city include the lively Grand Socco market square, the elegant Tangier American Legation Museum and tree-lined Mendoubia Garden. Port de Tanger Med II is just over an hour's drive from the site for transport further afield.