2 years of Corona, When will it end & how it has affected us personally.
For the tourism industry especially here in Tagazhout Morocco, Covid 19 has completed stunted tourism. For us here in Amayour, we have only been able to trade for 5 months since March 2020.
So what have we been doing to keep busy during that time??
Well, there have been a lot of renovations & improvements, keeping the growing family busy and of course surfing and practising yoga & a lot of football from Mhand!
We have doubled the size of our kitchen which is super exciting news (for us!) making the kitchen service easier and making your dining experience even better than before.
Windows! Taken out all the internal windows and now every room has its own external window this is a big win for everyone who knows the Taghazout building system.
Finally, we are changing the terrace roof this has been a job we have had on the burner for years, no more leaky leaks during that week or 2 of rain!
Lots of sanding, painting & tweaking, getting excited about new ideas that we have to keep us going through this time. With new interior design style adding in lots of pop of colours to keep the camp fun and vibrate yet effortless cool.
Watching the girls grow, with baby Nora seeing her walking and talking nonstop becoming a proper little toddler, making us pray each night for a good nights sleep, she has bought us so much joy and kept us on our toes! Seeing Matilda grow into a thoughtful & fun young lady who also brings us joy & laughs and has a great meme game.
We are now hoping, like everyone that the pandemic will finally become endemic and that all our patience is worth it for the 2022 season
See you in the best surf camp in Taghazout!
Love from Shiraz & Mhand & all the team.
Travel Restrictions in the Age of Coronavirus - The Positives
The coronavirus has wreaked havoc on quite a few inextricable aspects of our lives. From the way we communicate, to how we get jobs done, up to the entire economy as a whole. No doubt the impact of the pandemic is being felt down to the very core of our beings.
The coronavirus has wreaked havoc on quite a few inextricable aspects of our lives. From the way we communicate, to how we get jobs done, up to the entire economy as a whole. No doubt the impact of the pandemic is being felt down to the very core of our beings.
And for avid travellers, the sting goes even deeper. No more surfing trips to Agadir; no more excursions to quaint old cities; no more journeys to ancient sites with centuries of history behind them. No more travel. Just like that.
Still, in the midst of the wildest chaos, there is always something to hold on to. Yes, the coronavirus pandemic is terrible, but there's no reason we, as travel lovers, can not find a way to make the most of the time as best as we can.
Interested in learning just how to do this? Well great, we provide the answers for you below!
Making the Most of the Time
Without a doubt, the most promising we can do now during the pandemic is to try our best to make the most of the time that we have.
With lockdown rules in place in most cities, there's so much free time to do absolutely nothing.
And while this can get scary and overwhelming, thanks to the novelty and boredom, it isn't all bad once you start to get used to it. Before you know it, you find that you’re able to channel the free time and learn to use it towards other equally productive means.
But what are these productive means, you ask? Well, we list them further below.
1. Time and Health
Spending time and money on travelling and seeing the world is great. It's not just great, it is rewarding and fulfilling and you get to learn a lot. But guess what, it is also time-consuming and can take a toll on our mental health.
Now, instead, we have a unique opportunity to take care of ourselves and spend our time and money towards this end. It's like the universes finally forcing us to focus on our own bodies and mind. Why say no to the universe?
2. Appreciate Our Surroundings
There's so much the world has to offer. So vast and diverse, that sometimes the things and people immediately around us seem to pale in comparison. But this outlook isn't always the truth. It is in moments like these that we get to focus on the things and people around us, and start to appreciate them more. Until we get bored and tired of them again, of course. But that short moment of realisation and appreciation – that is worth a lot.
3. Sustainability
Look, there's no denying, constant travelling and constant tourist traps all take a toll on the environment and our own sustainability. Just as we mentioned in the first point about taking care and focusing on our minds and bodies, the same goes for the planet too.
We could choose to see the pandemic as being entirely terrible, or choose also to see it as an avenue for the earth to recharge, with tourists sites all closed and planes grounded. Mama Earth needs her break, and one way or another, she finally got it.
4. The World Around Us
So vast, so beautiful. And with lots of knowledge to offer. The best part about it? We live in a unique time where we don't necessarily have to visit these places to learn about them.
There's absolutely nothing that says that you can't use this break as an opportunity to learn more and appreciate the world around you. For example, we can visit the top art galleries virtually https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2020/mar/23/10-of-the-worlds-best-virtual-museum-and-art-gallery-tours
5. The Irony
Life is full or ironies and paradoxes. In fact, these are the reasons behind some of the most beautiful phenomena in life. And one of the greatest ironies of the pandemic is that, in a quite fascinating turn of fate, it is the fact that we hurt so much now (because there is no travelling and our movements are restricted). That travel will become the feeling of luxury that it once was.
Guest Post by Driss Benchemsi from Think Morocco
Salt, Surf and fun in Taghazout
Take a Sneak Peek Into a Day With Amayour Surf
Welcome back to our page fellow surfers, yogis, and all-around chilled out travellers! After the holidays and with winter still set in, we wish that you’ll choose to visit Amayour Surf Hostel set in a picturesque fishing village, Taghazout on the coast of Morocco. We have delicious homemade meals, a cosy terrace with seaside views, surf and sunny days year-round to help you relax and recharge.
If you’ve signed up for a class or have it all included in our Full Moon or Half Moon packages, you’ll rise and shine the Amayour way. Enjoy the sunrise from the terrace practising our daily morning yoga with our on-site yoga instructors. Stretch sore surf muscles and strengthen your body while looking out from our terrace at Taghazout Bay. No matter the hour you are sure to see surfers already out waiting for the right wave.
Our day then continues with a supercharged healthy Moroccan style breakfast. Guests love our buffet-style selection of berries, local yoghurt, Berber omelettes and freshly baked bread. Don’t forget to add the Amlou! Amlou is a Moroccan spread made of roasted almonds blended together with honey and argan oil. Along with tea and coffee, it’s the perfect combination before a big day of sun, salt and surf.
Now onto the ‘big one.’ Taghazout is a tranquil town good for detoxing from the stresses of daily life, but as Morocco's premier surf destination, it’s time for us to head to the beach!
You will join our passionate ISA (International Surfing Association) accredited surf instructors at one of the very famous beaches close to Taghazout. Just outside the hostel, Panorama beach is particularly good for beginners, but you’ll see pros and novices alike catching the consistent waves that break here.
Did you know that Anchor point is known for its long barrels that have been known to carry an experienced surfer to nearby Hash Point and then all the way back to Panorama Point & onto the beach!
After a 2-hour session carving and cruising, beneath the backdrop of the Anti-Atlas mountains, you can now enjoy a free lunch provided by Amayour Surf. As part of our package deal, at no extra cost, you can continue to use our quality wetsuits and a variety of boards before and after lessons! There’s no better place to sunbathe and rip waves than the blue waters of the Atlantic cascading onto clean sandy shores.
After the waves, kickback on the rooftop amongst our desert garden, colourful Moroccan style decor and a few friendly tortoises. We want you to feel right at home, oh and don’t worry we have WiFi. Later on in the evening, we serve up 5-star traditional dinners for all our guests at Amayour Surf Hostel and with extra accommodation in the newly refurbished hotel next door.
Our wonderful chef Nezha prepares a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes for you to enjoy with a nod to modern style sides and salads. All ingredients are fresh, local, and seasonal, guests on TripAdvisor particularly enjoy our tajines. We personally tailor our recipes and accommodate all dietary restrictions. Whether you are lactose-intolerant, pescatarian, gluten-free or vegan, we got you covered morning and night! Thursdays are a special day as we have BBQs we host on the terrace. We serve up spiced fish, marinated chicken, a variety of salads with an Ottolenghi twist, and in keeping with tradition bread, olives, hummus and argan oil. Join our local staff and host of international volunteers as the sunsets over beautiful Taghazout.
Whether you are a solo traveller, couple, or a group of friends enjoying the holidays, we know you’ll enjoy a stay with us at our award-winning boutique hostel, Amayour Surf Hostel ;) Come meet the gang, enjoy the waves, chill-out and take a dive into a bit of the local life. Thank you for reading and taking a peek into an unforgettable trip!
Amayour turns 4!
Wow, we can't believe it. We're turning 4!
What started out as a dream, has now become the number 1 hostel on TripAdvisor. Winning multiple awards since inception, we have hosted thousands of guests from hundreds of countries on their Surf and Yoga holidays in Morocco. And it has been nothing short of a pleasure.
With endless summers and amazing waves all year round, we're proud to offer the best Surf and Yoga trips in the infamous Taghazout. Whether looking for comfortable dorms or beautiful private rooms, your stay at Amayour Surf and Yoga Hostel is bound to be full of great people and great vibes!
For our 4th birthday, we are delighted to announce that we will be opening a brand new 10 bedroom hotel right next to our hostel; offering our guests even more comfort, choice and convenience.
To celebrate even further, we're offering 10% off all bookings made before 15th October!
Book direct today! Come and celebrate our 4th birthday with us. Surf, sun, smiles, at Amayour Surf Hostel.
What to pack for a yoga retreat in Taghazout
We’re often asked about what to pack and what to leave at home. So to help make packing easier (and save room for those inevitable Moroccan goodies you’re sure to pick up along the way), we’ve prepared a list of the essentials for your yoga retreat in Taghazout.
What to pack for a yoga retreat in Taghazout
Since opening Tamazirt by Amayour, a dedicated yoga retreat centre in the Anti-Atlas Mountains just 10 minutes from Taghazout, Morocco we have enjoyed meeting yogis of all levels. We’re often asked about what to pack and what to leave at home. So to help make packing easier (and save room for those inevitable Moroccan goodies you’re sure to pick up along the way), we’ve prepared a list of the essentials for your yoga retreat in Taghazout.
Yoga pants and activewear tops
This is a no-brainer, but just to say that at Tamazirt by Amayour we take a laid-back approach to what to wear during your yoga retreat. Comfort is obviously important, but beyond that, we don’t have a preference to labels or fashion styles.
A jumper and socks
As we start each day watching the sunrise during our morning yoga practice, getting out of bed and climbing up to the yoga shala can be a bit chilly. A sweater and warm socks are a must during cooler months while warming up during practice. You’ll also be happy you’ve packed them during evening sunset savasana. All meals are served al fresco with views of the rolling hills and argan trees dotting the landscape so an extra layer is needed.
Swimsuit
The outdoor pool just steps from the main building gets direct sunlight throughout the day, making it the perfect spot for escaping with a book, journaling or chatting with fellow yogis in between dips in the pool.
Journal
On the topic of journaling, there are no shortage of cosy nooks (and supplies of tea or coffee) for enjoying the silence and a bit of reflection.
Comfortable walking shoes
We know yoga is done barefoot, but the rolling Anti-Atlas Mountains accessible from the doorstep of Tamazirt by Amayour, are perfect for a mindful walk (and when you need a rest or a bit of reflection, the argan trees provide the perfect shade). We’ll also venture out on an optional day trip either to the souk or nearby Paradise Valley where you’ll be glad you packed your trainers.
A pair of flip flops
These will come in handy when heading up to the pool, to slip on for yoga class, or for use in the shared bathroom.
Sunscreen, sunglasses and sunhat
At Tamazirt by Amayour we benefit from what seems like endless sunshine. Whether soaking up the sun poolside or lounging on the rooftop terrace and while we do provide parasols, you’ll be thankful you’ve packed sunscreen and a sunhat. Many guests appreciate having these items on hand for the various activities we engage in throughout the week.
Toiletries
Bring along anything you may not be able to live without, but feel free to leave the shampoo and conditioner as well as soap (we provide a local alternative) to us. As it’s a yoga retreat, we also recommend natural looks - feel free to leave the hair straightener and cosmetic bag at home!
An open mind
Whether an amateur yogi or you’ve been practising for years, you’ve made the decision to join a yoga retreat so we suggest going into the experience with an open mind. Let go of any inhibitions. Try new poses. Free yourself of any need to be connected. Taste new foods. Take a moment to reward yourself for any challenges or accomplishments. Maybe this is your first time travelling solo, practising yoga, or even going to Morocco. Soak it all up.
Yoga equipment
At Tamazirt by Amayour we have gone to great lengths to stock the yoga shala with quality YogaMatters mats, bolsters, blocks and straps, so unless you have a favourite mat that you cannot practice without, we’ve got you covered.
Your passport
Not only will you need your passport to travel to Morocco, but we will require details noted within your passport (including date of birth, passport number and the identification number provided in your passport by the customs officer upon arrival in the country) when checking in to Tamazirt by Amayour.
Foreign currency to exchange
The Moroccan Dirham is a closed currency, meaning you cannot purchase the currency outside of Morocco. Currency exchange offices and leading banks are located in Agadir, but there are no bank machines in Taghazout or Agouni, where Tamazirt by Amayour is located. Taxis between Agadir and Taghazout will accept Euros, but you will need local currency for any additional purchases you may wish to make.
Ready to book a yoga retreat? Find out about our upcoming yoga retreats at Tamazirt by Amayour.
What are your goals and intentions for 2019?
2019 is all about living with intention and a healthy dose of self-care. Simply put, life seems to be getting busier and time passing by in a flash!
If like us, 2018 was a whirlwind year (did we mention we opened a dedicated yoga retreat centre called Tamazirt by Amayour AND purchased an adorable building in Taghazout which will eventually become a restaurant, then 2019 is all about living with intention and a healthy dose of self-care. Simply put, life seems to be getting busier and time passing by in a flash!
That’s why we are curating five-night yoga retreats at Tamazirt by Amayour that follow the lunar cycles and allow guests to slow down, take some time for themselves and set mindful intentions.
From 16 to 21 March 2019 Bianca Capstick will lead us through the new moon, but also the spring equinox (link to more details once received and posted to amayoursurf.com). Pip Roberts will use the brightness of the full moon over the rolling Anti-Atlas Mountains where Tamazirt by Amayour has unobstructed lunar views in April to light up a five-night full moon retreat kicking off on 20 April (link to more details once received and posted to amayoursurf.com).
We’ll rise with the sun during morning flow before tucking in to fresh and wild Moroccan cuisine under the blue skies then evenings are spent cozying up with a good book and cup of tea after a restorative yin practice. A wander through the weekly souk one day provides the opportunity to purchase locally-sourced vegetables and in-season fruits, and nuts, spices, teas and other superfoods we find in the area. Or stay closer to Tamazirt by Amayour and set off on a gentle walk among the argan trees dotting the Anti-Atlas Mountains from our. We also encourage relaxing poolside, journaling under a fruit tree or just enjoying the silence, punctuated by the nearby village mosque, from the rooftop terrace.
As always, we aim to keep our prices fair to ensure yoga remains accessible to all. Prices for a five-night stay start at 400€ / £360 per person.
Snag your spot today! BOOK HERE!
Included:
Fresh and wild modern Moroccan meals with breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks included (contact us for vegan and gluten-free lactose intolerant options)
90-minute morning flow
60-minute evening restorative classes
Use of swimming pool with views over the countryside, lounge chairs and parasols
One day trip such as a guided tour of the weekly souk. Extra excursions such as surfing can be added and arranged
One way transfer from Agadir Airport or Bus Station to Tamazirt by Amayour is included
Not included:
Lunches outside the villa
Extra transport to and from villa
Washing
Alcohol (feel free to bring your own or ask us to arrange for you)
In between, we are working with some of our favourite yoga instructors in planning their week-long yoga, mindfulness and even a boxing meets yoga retreat for guests looking for a bit more adventure.
Find out more about the yoga retreats currently scheduled at Tamazirt by Amayour. – Link to full list of yoga retreats.
If you’re a yoga teacher and considering hosting a yoga retreat in Morocco, please get in touch. We would love to discuss bringing your ideas to life! – link to Shiraz email or Tamazirt yoga retreat planning website
Photo © Eileen W. Cho
Yoga and surf in Taghazout, Morocco
We heard your requests for a dedicated yoga retreat centre in Morocco and in October 2018 we opened Tamazirt by Amayour, just 15 minutes, but a world away, from the village of Taghazout.
We host five-night New Moon Yoga Retreats at Tamazirt by Amayour where guests enjoy up to eight yoga classes and two in-depth workshops, fresh and wild Moroccan cuisine we are known for at Amayour, and meditative walks through the rolling Anti-Atlas Mountains.
We heard your requests for a dedicated yoga retreat centre in Morocco and in October 2018 we opened Tamazirt by Amayour, just 15 minutes, but a world away, from the village of Taghazout.
We host five-night New Moon Yoga Retreats at Tamazirt by Amayour where guests enjoy up to eight yoga classes and two in-depth workshops, fresh and wild Moroccan cuisine we are known for at Amayour, and meditative walks through the rolling Anti-Atlas Mountains.
Tamazirt by Amayour is a place to not only practice yoga and meditate, but also to unwind on he rooftop terrace while watching life in the local Amazigh village of Agouni unfold before wandering through the rolling hills, to laze by the pool during warm afternoons, to indulge in locally sourced menus, and gaze at the stars as night falls.
But for those who want to add a bit of adventure to their holiday, we’re offering a week-long package that includes five nights at Tamazirt by Amayour and two nights at Amayour Surf and Yoga Hostel.
At Amayour Surf and Yoga Hostel, the day starts with sea views during a morning flow before a hearty breakfast and a day of surf. As the sun sets, we gather for more yoga and then family-style dinner on the terrace. Our location in the village of Taghazout means that guests can easily head out for wanders through the village, coffee with a view or dancing the night away on occasion. The perfect add-on before your retreat, or after. It’s up to you!
Our five-night Half Moon Yoga Retreats start from €400 and two nights at Amayour Surf and Yoga Hostel from €140. ( based on sharing room options upgrade prices apply)
Contact us to book your surf and yoga holiday in Morocco now!
Christmas and New Year in Taghazout, Morocco
Christmas and New Year in Taghazout, Morocco
New Year yoga retreat in Taghazout, Morocco
Does your ideal holiday look something like this?
Or like this?
Are you more open to the waves?
Or country walks through the rolling hills? - OR - Or yoga with a view?
And how about this for a Christmas dinner?
Then this view on New Year’s Eve?
Or even this?
If so, let’s chat Christmas and New Year holidays in Taghazout, Morocco. And in particular at Amayour Surf and Yoga Hostel in Taghazout or Tamazirt by Amayour’s dedicated yoga retreat centre in the Anti-Atlas Mountains.
Surf and yoga in Taghazout
If you’re looking for a blend of relaxation and adventure, join us for a yoga and surf holiday at Amayour Surf and Yoga Hostel. The day starts with sea views during a morning flow before a hearty breakfast and a day of surf. As the sun sets, we gather for more yoga and then family-style dinner on the terrace. Our location in the village of Taghazout means that guests can easily head out for wanders through the village, coffee with a view or dancing the night away on occasion.
Book your yoga and surf holiday now!
Yoga retreat in Morocco
If your idea of a perfect holiday involves a yoga retreat in Morocco’s Anti-Atlas Mountains where the gentle sound of the call to prayer wakes us for our morning flow, fresh and wild Moroccan cuisine is shared family style under the blue skies, and evenings are spent cozying up with a good book and cup of tea after a restorative yin practice, join us at Tamazirt by Amayour!
Throughout the five-night New Moon Yoga Retreats kicking off on the 29th December, guests will participate in eight yoga classes and two in-depth workshops, enjoy a hike the nearby Paradise Valley or wander through the weekly souk to shop for some of our favourite goodies, and spend free time wandering through the rolling hills from the doorstep at Tamazirt by Amayour. We also encourage relaxing poolside. Did we mention we have a heated pool?
Or if you want to blend a bit of both, join us for a five-night New Moon Yoga Retreat at Tamazirt by Amayour in the Anti-Atlas Mountains just 15 minutes from the ocean and then book yourself in for some surfing and a stay at Amayour Surf and Yoga Hostel in Taghazout.
Contact us for package details.
Tamazirt by Amayour yoga retreat centre is now open near Taghazout, Morocco
Morning yoga practices with 360’ views of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. Fresh and wild vegetarian cuisine prepared using locally sourced ingredients. Country walks through the rolling hills. A daytrip to the local souk to shop for our favourite spices, baskets, harissa and spiced coffee. Lazy afternoons spent reading and soaking up the sun in between dips in the pool.
Morning yoga practices with 360’ views of the Anti-Atlas Mountains. Fresh and wild vegetarian cuisine prepared using locally sourced ingredients. Country walks through the rolling hills. A daytrip to the local souk to shop for our favourite spices, baskets, harissa and spiced coffee. Lazy afternoons spent reading and soaking up the sun in between dips in the pool. Lisa Shaw from Balearic Yoga led afternoon workshops created to help guests deepen their yoga practices. And sunset classes to relax and unwind after a day.
This is how guests on our inaugural yoga retreat at Tamazirt by Amayour, just 15 minutes from Taghazout in Morocco’s Anti-Atlas Mountains, spent their days.
And, to our delight, The Guardian has listed Tamazirt by Amayour as its #5 pick for top yoga destinations worldwide.
You see, we organise New Moon Yoga Retreats from Saturday to Thursday to allow yogis a chance to practice yoga, but to retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. We encourage mindful walks through the Anti-Atlas Mountains where interactions are limited to friendly locals and passing shepherds grazing their herds. We urge pool days and afternoons on the terrace. We savour lazy breakfasts on the terrace and long lunches too! And when we want to truly unwind, we head to the local hammam for one of the best health rituals in the village.
Fly in to nearby Agadir international airport or Marrakech and we’ll meet you at Agadir airport or bus station (if coming from another destination within Morocco) and whisk you off to our mountain retreat for a five-night yoga retreat at Tamazirt by Amayour.
Who and where is the best 20 yoga destinations worldwide?
Well don’t just take it from us that we are but The Guardian names Tamazirt by Amayour as one of 20 best yoga destinations worldwide
That's right. You read the headline correctly. When we opened our doors on 6 October, the Guardian was quick to name Tamazirt by Amayour as one of its top picks for yoga destinations. Rubbing shoulders with yoga retreats in hotspots Goa, Portugal and even Sri Lanka, we are delighted to be the only Moroccan retreat centre that made the list.
Read the full roundup online at: https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2018/oct/07/perfect-positions-20-best-yoga-holiday-destinations
Book a spot on one of our upcoming yoga retreats online, get in touch about future retreats, or sign up to our newsletter to be the first to know about our upcoming retreats.
We’re cooking up something fresh at Tamazirt by Amayour
We’re cooking up something fresh at Tamazirt by Amayour
And it’s just what the body and soul crave.
Let’s start with one of the fresh and wild Moroccan side dishes we love to prepare at Amayour!
Roasted beetroot & pumpkin Roast fresh pumpkin and beetroot with large chunks of onion, a whole clove of garlic, chilie a good glug of olive oil, salt and pepper and rosemary for about 30 minutes, until the vegetables are soft. Dress in good olive oil& lemon and finely grated garlic - go wild get some ripe avocado in there -
At Amayour Surf and Yoga Hostel and also at Tamazirt by Amayour we serve the roasted vegetables on a bed of oraganic Moroccan quinoa in a colourful bowl made locally.
B'saha as we say here in Morocco.
And now for the even better news!
During a yoga retreat at Tamazirt by Amayour you’ll not only enjoy twice-daily yoga classes, but also fresh and wild Moroccan cuisine. We'll add in a visit to the local market where you can stock up on fresh spices too. Fly direct to nearby Agadir from a growing list of European cities and we’ll come and pick you up.
What are you waiting for?
And perhaps we're saving the best for last, but we're rather excited that The Guardian has named us one of the 20 best yoga holidays worldwide.
Do surf & yoga retreats really progress your surfing?
Surf and yoga retreats are everywhere… but do they give you what you need to take your surfing to the next level?
Where: Amayour Surf Hostel, Morocco, Taghazout.,
Surf spots: Panorama, Anza, Devil’s Rock and Tamri beach.
I chose Morocco because I had been before and appreciated the sunshine, Moroccan culture, food and landscapes.I also knew Morocco was Wild & Free Adventure’s next surf and yoga retreat destination. I’d been following their adventures on Instagram for a while and was intrigued to find out if a week surfing with Alan Stokes combined with yoga every day with Philly would progress my surfing. I love how different the culture is in Morocco, sometimes it's like going back in time & everything is so affordable! The driving is so crazy it’s funny; Moroccan dogs tend to like sleeping in the middle of the dusty roads so drivers have to watch out for them, as well as little cats roaming the bumpy streets everywhere you look...
A typical day at the Wild & Free retreat
After waking up rather early to prayer call, dogs having a loud chat at 6:00 AM or Moroccans shouting to their friends to wake them up instead of an alarm... I’d put my yoga gear on and wander upstairs to the roof terrace.
It was a beautiful feeling, practising yoga every morning at 8:00 AM with our yoga teacher, Philly. Yoga was the perfect way to wake up and get us nicely warmed up ready for a day of surfing. I think it was the feeling of the sun rising on our faces and the sound of waves in the background that made it extra special. Yoga was shortly followed by feasting on delicious breakfast straight from the tagine, fruit, orange juice and of course; Moroccan mint tea.
SURF TIME! We split into groups of beginners and intermediates and went to different beaches each day, wherever the surf was looking best; Panorama, Anza, Devils Rock or Tamri.
We ate some lunch and then it was time for a relaxing, yin yoga session before dinner.
OHMYGOODNESS THE FOOD. The food at Amayour Surf was divine, out of this world. Local cooks put on a spread every day without fail.
Tagines, including the house speciality; Octopus Tagine, Rfissa, Sardine Kefta (minced fishballs), and of course Friday CousCous every meal had a tasty veggie or vegan option too. The Octopus was absolutely incredible; I can't believe how quickly it all vanished; the food at Amayour Surf is the best in Taghazout.
Did yoga help me with surfing progression?
Yoga and surfing go very well together, both are about being in the moment, not thinking about anything else but the activity... Often in surfing, you’re just looking out to the horizon, where you see nothing but water and the sun glistening as it reflects on the ocean. There is nothing to worry about, your mind has a chance to escape and relax. When you’re riding the face of a wave, it is impossible to think about anything but the moment and this is what I love about surfing.
But how does yoga actually help to progress your surfing level and ability?
When I first started hearing about surf and yoga retreats, I wanted to find a good one to progress my surfing. I wanted to treat my mind, body and soul to an active, healthy week in the sun. My surfing is an intermediate level and I’d argue that this is the most frustrating level of surfing; in the middle of progression and stagnation.
During my week on the retreat, I noticed that our morning energetic yoga helped to prevent surfing injuries by practising poses that involved lots of hip and shoulder openers and twisting to warm up our surfing muscles as surfing creates a lot of tension in the hips and in the shoulders.
I really felt a difference in the stability of my legs, Philly said that this was probably from the Warrior Two pose which helps surfers prevent groin strains when slipping off your board.
Of course, yoga involves a lot of core strength movements and balancing poses good for balancing on the board. Each yoga session would include the Cobra pose which is amazing for your back strength needed for paddle power and strength; the Cobra pose is definitely one of my favourites. In the evening, Philly walked us through poses to release the muscles we had been using whilst surfing, as well as meditation to help relax our mind and body.
Alan Stokes surf instruction
Alan's coaching had a relaxed feel with some solid surfing knowledge behind it. In the first day, I had already progressed thanks to his instruction on mastering the bottom turn.
We were a group of 6 (intermediates) and he managed to keep a watch on all of our waves, commenting on the tiniest things, that made the biggest difference to our surfing
Thank you, thank you!
Many people have told me I need to do things like paddle more but never explained why, so it never clicked. But Alan explained how and why and so, for the first time, everything clicked!
To make that post surf feeling even more enjoyable, we were welcomed by mint tea and doughnuts on the beach from the Moroccan man who would wander the beach. A wonderful post surf snack…
Thanks for a lovely time,
Krissie Claire xoxo
………….
If you’re thinking of booking a surf and yoga retreat, I would highly recommend Wild & Free Retreats at Amayour Surf Hostel in Morocco, Taghazout. But if you can not wait untill December 2018 then Amayour Surf have an in-house yoga instructor and local surf instructors, check out their surf and yoga packages here.
Why Morocco Should Be The Place You Learn To Surf! | Our Fave Beginner Surf Spots
Swap those horrible rainy, grey days for some sunshine, surf and yoga… Treat yourself.
Are you planning your next winter escape, but simply can’t picture yourself sat by the pool all day long? You’re probably the adventurous one who wants to try something new and exhilarating on your travels…
Luckily for you, we love people like you here at Amayour surf, and we have something that just might entice you.
Learn to surf...
Have you had the desire to learn to surf for a long time but haven’t found the right place? Maybe you haven’t been able to convince your friends to join you, (silly friends) and didn’t want to do it alone.
We thought you might like to know that Taghazout in Morocco, is the best winter destination to begin your surfing journey!
Trust me, you won’t regret it… you’ll easily make friends at Amayour Surf who are constantly seeking an adventure too!
Exercise? But I was having so much fun...
Surfing can be such a giggle, you won’t even realise you’re exercising, but you’ll certainly work up an appetite for our famous Moroccan meals.
Cultural experience
Discover Moroccan spices and flavours...
The ideal surf holiday for beginners would be affordable, be located somewhere sunny, and accommodated a walk away from a choice of surf spots. Morocco is the best place for nice easy, dreamy waves for learning to surf and with the help of experienced surf instructors everywhere you look, you’ll have no excuse to not try surfing for the first time!
At Amayour Surf, our surf & yoga packages are tailored to getting you confident on the waves. Our instructors have been surfing in morocco all their lives and will tell you all their best tips!
We care about your individual needs, book on to our next surf and yoga retreat, (December 2nd-9th) and you'll be riding the waves in no time!
Why Taghazout, Morocco?
Taghazout, Morocco is a popular destination for beginner surfers because it is located on the northern tip of Africa, its climate is inviting and warm and the waves suit all abilities. What’s even better is that the swell arrives right in the middle of Europe’s winter, making Morocco the best winter surf escape for European beginners!
You can grab return flights for as little as £50 and Moroccan food is much more affordable than European prices and delicious!
List of beginner surf spots
With over 20 surf spots in a 20 km radius from Amayour Surf, there is always a wave for you to learn to surf. We know the best spots, from our local beach break Panorama Point to Tamri & beyond. Here’s just a few...
Panorama Point, Taghazout
Fabulous sunsets from our roof top terrace...
There's the beach you'll learn to surf!
Panorama Point has a learning beach which is a 5 minute walk from Amayour Surf Hostel, you can see it from our roof terrace! The beginner beach features a long sweeping right hander, so easy to surf with dreamy, slow and clean waves.
The point is a 30 minute walk from Amayour Surf Hostel and is more for experienced surfers so you’ll enjoy the beginner beach which you can see from our roof terrace!
La source, Taghazout
Lovely left and right handers, perfect for all surfing levels; here you can figure out which is your favourite way to surf.
Smaller reef sections together with sandy sections provides a clean wave here which is great news for beginner surfers!
Amayour Surf Hostel is just a 20 minute walk away!
Tamri & Imsouane (Devil’s Rock)
This could be you!
Clean, green, dreamy waves...
Day trip with Amayour Surf:
Amayour Surf’s instructors were born on this beach, it was their playground. They know this beach better than anyone around - It can be dangerous but with our instructors and guides it’s safe and again, great for beginners.
Imsouane is known as the most chilled out bay in Morocco, great for longboarders and learning to surf for the first time. Amayour Surf’s day trip is magical, after experiencing the longest waves in Morocco, and discovering the secret beaches no one else knows about you will discover Moroccan cultural foods.
Discover the best surf and yoga packages in Morocco with Amayour Surf!
The next surf and yoga retreat is with pro surfer and 3x British champion, Alan Stokes and yoga teacher Philly on December the 2nd-9th 2017- BOOKING UP FAST! DON'T MISS OUT!
There's only two double rooms left and they are gorgeous!
Bright, Fresh & Handcrafted Decor...
A BLISSFUL SURF AND YOGA RETREAT WITH A DIFFERENCE…
A blissful surf and yoga retreat in Taghazout, Morocco featuring Alan and Philly Stokes.
If you haven’t heard about Amayour Surf, the best beachside surf house in Morocco; you’re missing out on their handcrafted home with stunning views of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
Take your surfing to the next level…
I'm Krissie, Amayour Surf's brand new blogger and I believe that life is better when you’re laughing and having fun in the sun; to me surfing and yoga are sports which are so enjoyable, you don’t even realise you’re exercising!
I recently discovered that yoga can really help your surfing by enhancing your flexibility, mobility and strength. So I decided I would hunt for the best surf and yoga retreat in Morocco. You're pretty much guranteed waves and sunshine all year and Taghazout is known as Morocco’s premier surfing destination, perfect for all levels of surfing, even if you’re trying it for the first time.
Amayour Surf has the perfect set up if you're wanting to take your surfing to the next level. With a choice of Morocco’s best reef breaks, point breaks and beach breaks just around the corner.
Make it your own…
Amayour Surf’s hand-picked surf and yoga package holidays, VIP residency guest weeks and retreats will present you with a difficult decision on what to choose as your next surf or yoga holiday- but it’s a nice dilemma to have!
I have heard that Amayour Surf is the best surf house in Taghazout because of their unique outlook on how a surf and yoga holiday should be. They will allow you to make your surf holiday your own; if you wanted to surf a little more than practising yoga, then they will tailor your package.
Surf & Yoga Retreat
With my huge passion for surfing combined with my new love of yoga, I saw Amayour Surf’s Surf & Yoga retreat and simply couldn’t resist…The retreat I came across is taking place on the 2nd-9th of December, 2017. This is the perfect winter sun getaway, it’s the best time to escape the cold winter in the UK and swap it for Morocco’s warm water, sunrise yoga and sunset surf sessions.
Feel better about the winter cold months...
Having this trip to look forward to is making me feel a lot better about the cold winter months in England! I am looking forward to indulging myself in the Moroccan culture, the amazing food, the dreamy beaches with perfect waves, the sunshine and the unique Moroccan lifestyle…
We never have to stop chasing the sun with Morocco being a £50 return flight from London airports… yes a return flight is just £50!
Amayour Surf isn’t like the rest...
Amayour surf is a huge ongoing creative project run by Shiraz and Mhand, the couple are very much in love with their surf house in Taghazout, they told me that being in Morocco is like living with a group of ambitious, inspiring and creative people who are constantly wanting to see new and exciting things for their community.
Amayour surf wanted to add to these new and exciting things going on in Taghazout and wanted to include the Moroccan community as much as they could.
For this reason, Amayour Surf has a very unique ethos and are keen to promote sustainable tourism by employing locals where they can, giving their visitors more of an insight to Moroccan culture at the same time as boosting local employment.
INTRODUCING AMAYOUR SURF’S BRAND NEW RESIDENCY WEEKS!
The surf and yoga retreat week I have booked onto is part of Amayour surf’s brand new residency week program. Amayour Surf are now offering unique programs, featuring exclusive VIP guests to bring something new to Taghazout.
PRO SURF & YOGA RETREAT with the popular couple, Alan & Philly Stokes
Are you ready for a week of relaxation, fun, sun and waves? BOOK NOW, come and join us, we can't wait to meet you!
EAT SLEEP SURF REPEAT
Top chef Tim Spedding will be running a week, sharing his love of fish and surfing. You Surf in the morning, followed by souk hunting and cooking demos in the afternoon, you'll end the day feasting on the sunset roof terrace.
HOUSE OF VOGA (yoga and voguing)
Love disco, love yoga, love sunshine, love fun? This will be the perfect combination for you. Voga on the rooftop and surf in the sunny waves, exclusively to Amayour Surf and for the first time in Morocco.
Contact & Booking
To book the Surf & Yoga Retreat featured in this blog (December 2nd-9th 2017), click here.
Click here to view all of Amayour Surf's current packages on offer. Don't forget each package can be tailored within reason.
Email: hello@amayoursurf.com
OR
Call: M'hand: +212 6 95 43 47 84, Shiraz: +212 6 99 27 45 69
Krissie Claire (copy writer, blogger and all things Digital)
5 star hostel
We are super stoked to have some amazing new press features and also been chosen to feature in the awesome hostel geeks repertoire, more on this soon
Read here about the Metro UK coming to pay us a visit in sunny taghazout to see how a surf and yoga hostel package holidays works !
metro.co.uk/2017/05/10/why-your-next-short-break-should-be-a-surf-and-yoga-holiday-in-taghazout-6600978/
Amayour getting ready for season 3
November 22, 2017
SURF, YOGA AND MORE IN TAGHAZOUT WITH AMAYOUR SURF
So its been a while since I have blogged, and with our new website up and live we have a lot to write about our little surf hostel, here in Taghazout South Morocco which has grown and grown. The Surf camp, our little boutique hostel baby, has metaphorically learned to walk and talk in the past 18+ months.
Amayour Surf has evolved and changed we have now 13 beds, so still with that personal touch and great vibes. Our stunning new rooftop room and bathroom, more boards, bespoke bunk beds with the best mattresses available and still with our mission of using local talent.
Utilising the local craftsmen and their well gained knowledge. We believe that using local knowledge is best. Our sunset & yoga terrace is built with panoramic views of the whole bay.
We are excited for our next season and have more surf and surf & yoga packages on offer and also our amazing retreat & residences weeks - the most exciting surf weeks in taghazout totally unique to Amayour Surf.
The Boutique vibe has gown down well. Our food has been acknowledged as to quote a few "the best tagine I have eaten in Morocco!".
Eat fresh, eat wild, eat Moroccan style for authentic local dining experience.
Get in touch with us at Amayour Surf and see how we can plan your Moroccan surfing and yoga holiday. Also sign up to our newsletters and keep your ears and eyes peeled for special offers coming up and new developments as they happen !
Thanks from the Amayour Surf Team
