A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Gabès: A Coastal Oasis in Tunisia

Introduction

Located in the southeast of Tunisia, Gabès is a unique city that combines the beauty of an oasis with the majesty of the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its vibrant market, its impressive mosque, and its charming garden, Gabès is a tourist destination that offers a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty.

The Market of Gabès

One of the main attractions of Gabès is its market, known as the Souk. This vibrant market is famous for its variety of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to local crafts and exotic spices. Visitors can enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the market while exploring the numerous stalls and shops.

The Mosque of Gabès

The Mosque of Gabès, also known as the Sidi Boulbaba Mosque, is another point of tourist interest in the city. This impressive mosque is famous for its traditional Islamic architecture and its minaret, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

The Garden of Gabès

The Garden of Gabès, also known as the Chenini Garden, is an oasis of tranquility in the midst of the city. This charming garden is famous for its variety of plants and trees, including palm trees, olive trees, and citrus trees. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the garden, or simply sit and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

The Surroundings of Gabès

In addition to the city's attractions, the surroundings of Gabès also offer a number of tourist sites. These include the Jbil National Park, famous for its diversity of flora and fauna, and the city of Matmata, known for its troglodyte houses. Visitors can also enjoy a visit to the nearby island of Djerba, famous for its white sandy beaches and its charming old town.

The Culture of Gabès

In addition to its tourist attractions, Gabès is also famous for its rich culture. The city is known for its festivals and celebrations, including the Spring Festival, which celebrates the arrival of the new season with music, dance, and traditional food. Visitors can also enjoy the hospitality of the locals, who are known for their kindness and generosity.

Gastronomic Products of Gabès

• Deglet Nour Dates

  Gabès is famous for its Deglet Nour dates, considered the "kings of dates". They are known for their sweet taste and soft texture. The dates are harvested from the palm trees in the region and can be eaten fresh or dried. They are also used in a variety of local dishes, from desserts to main courses.

• Fish and Seafood

  Given its coastal location, Gabès offers a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. Local fishermen provide a wide variety of species, which can be enjoyed in the numerous restaurants in the city. Grilled fish dishes are especially popular, as well as seafood stews.

• Harissa

  Harissa is a spicy chili paste that is a staple in Tunisian cuisine. In Gabès, harissa is traditionally made with red chilies, garlic, salt, and olive oil. It is used as a condiment in many dishes, adding a touch of heat and flavor.

• Couscous

  Couscous is a traditional dish in Gabès and throughout Tunisia. It is made with wheat semolina and can be served with a variety of accompaniments, such as vegetables, lamb meat, chicken, or fish. Couscous is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Sports Activities in Tunisia (Gabès)

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing

Thanks to its coastal location, Gabès is an ideal place for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The constant winds and Mediterranean waters provide the perfect conditions for these water sports.

Hiking

The desert and mountainous landscape around Gabès offers opportunities for hiking. You can explore the Sahara dunes or venture into the Atlas mountains.

Diving

The Mediterranean Sea around Gabès is home to a wide variety of marine life, making it a popular place for diving. There are several diving schools in the area that offer courses for beginners and equipment rental.

Cycling

The varied terrain around Gabès makes it an ideal place for cycling. You can choose between flat coastal routes or challenging mountain trails.

Places near Gabès

If you are in Gabès and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Matmata, Tunisia, is famous for its unique underground troglodyte houses and its rich Berber cuisine. Visitors can explore these fascinating dwellings and enjoy local dishes such as couscous and tajine in an authentically Tunisian setting.

Djerba, Tunisia, is a paradise island known for its beautiful beaches, traditional architecture and rich cuisine, which includes local dishes such as couscous and brik, a delicious stuffed pastry. An ideal destination for food and culture lovers.

Tataouine, in Tunisia, is famous for its ancient troglodyte houses and vibrant markets. It is a paradise for food lovers, with traditional dishes such as couscous and tajine, and local sweets like stuffed dates.