Maxxanfame: 20.02.2024
The surfers among you are probably familiar with the place, mild climate, always wind and waves that are on average between 2-3 meters high, water temperatures around 19 degrees and all year round.
I had no idea about the place, we were just looking for a place by the sea, because we wanted something cooler for our two blacks because of the high temperatures around Agadir. We weren't aware at first that it would then be a surfer's paradise.
The way there made us aware of the cause of a rattling noise in the trailer. This time it wasn't the gas house, but the second screw at the front of the towing hitch, which was simply missing. Christian replaced it temporarily, then we set off for our new location, where a Welshman with an ancient Mercedes van was able to find the screw we were looking for! 😃
The drive was gigantic, because between Agadir and Imsouane we passed a great dune that wasn't quite as big as the Dune du Pilat. That would have been interesting, but staying in one place with a caravan was simply not an option. We drove further and then down the serpentines to the sea.
Of course, we immediately realized that we had now moved into a surfer's paradise when we saw the campervans at the site. That sounds like a bit of a cliché, but it's not meant in a bad way. Surfers are generally very frugal; most of them have an old van that they have lovingly renovated themselves. Old VW, Ford, LT, Mercedes and Co. are more likely to be found here than a high-gloss motorhome. (There are those in the group too!) Most of them have their boards on the outside of their van, and the surfers often stand like sardines in the tightest of spaces in remote parking lots at great bays, but that doesn't bother anyone, because they love the board and The waves connect them into a great community.
The surfers we met and spoke to are all "laidback" and very relaxed, surfing is a philosophy that unites them, that makes them look at everything without stress. The town of Imsouane has adapted to surfers. If you don't have a van or can't get there with your own car, there are hostels that specialize in surfers, where the boards can be cleaned and the way to the beach and the waves is not far. In fact, there are also workshops where your board can be tailor-made, repaired and and and...
Within the campsite there was a surf camp with tents etc., where it was suggested to me that surfers relax between the waves, meditate and do yoga. I didn't see anyone doing yoga, but that doesn't mean they don't do it. I can't answer whether this is actually part of the lifestyle, but I'll ask when I get the chance...
We're not surfers, I have to admit, but it was still a great experience. In Brittany, 3 years ago, we were also scared at first in Camaret because there were so many surfers with their small children, but here everything is different, the parents are super relaxed, the children are not conspicuous and loud, but are very free . That reminded me of the summers in Italy again, because we could run around wherever and however we wanted, the main thing was that we were back for dinner in the evening. If the kids aren't out in the waves themselves, they're busy on the beach or on the skateboard, they're always on the move.
What makes surfers so different? Firstly, they speak openly without prejudice, they are always friendly. Secondly, they don't need luxury per se, they are happy with a shower and toilet, if they are just public, that's fine too. Thirdly, they are never loud, just incredibly open-minded, fourthly, they do not force their lifestyle on anyone. Fifth, any convenience is just a bonus if you use apps and the like to find the best time to surf. Last but not least: Nutella and bread are staple foods, some are vegan, others eat anything, no discrimination or instruction necessary! 👍🏿
We went a little off the grid here, but it was a great experience. French, Belgians, Dutch, Spanish, British, Austrians, Germans and Moroccans are passionate about their passion, which also has a language barrier! ♥️