Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Family Adventure in Chefchaouen

Wandering Through Chefchaouen's Soul

Today was a day of venturing beyond the familiar postcard views of Chefchaouen, seeking out the stories etched into its lesser-known corners. With my family in tow, I was eager to discover what hidden gems lay waiting, far from the bustling tourist trails. It's days like these that truly enrich a travel experience, turning a simple visit into a tapestry of memories.

Our day began, as many do here, with breakfast at Sofia. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our explorations. Lasse, ever the growing teenager, made short work of his pastries, while Astrid and I savored the moment, watching the town slowly awaken. After fortifying ourselves, we set off towards Bab El Hammar.


Explore Chefchaouen: A Moroccan gem known for its stunning blue streets and authentic culinary experiences.

Bab El Hammar, one of Chefchaouen's historic gates, stood as a proud testament to the town's enduring spirit. As we approached, the intricate brickwork and the weight of history were palpable. The kids were fascinated by the sheer size of the gate, imagining the countless travelers who had passed through it over the centuries. We took some photos, trying to capture the essence of this cultural landmark, before venturing deeper into the medina.


Explore the rich cultural heritage of Morocco at Bab El Hammar, a captivating museum in the stunning town of Chefchaouen.

From Bab El Hammar, we meandered into Rue Ibn Asskar, a narrow, winding street known for its intense blue hues and local shops. The color was simply mesmerizing; every wall, every doorway seemed to glow with a vibrant energy. Astrid, always with an eye for detail, was captivated by the intricate patterns painted on the walls. Lasse, on the other hand, was more interested in the small shops lining the street. He bartered for a leather bracelet, a skill he seems to have inherited from his Italian ancestors. I found myself drawn to a small artisan shop, where an old man was meticulously crafting wooden toys. It reminded me of my own workshop back in Silkeborg, and I felt an instant connection with the craftsman.


Discover the beauty of Chefchaouen, Morocco's blue city, with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant local markets.

Wandering through Chefchaouen is akin to stepping into a living painting, where every corner reveals a new shade of blue and a fresh stroke of cultural vibrancy.

After our immersion in the blue streets, we decided to venture further afield to Akchour. The promise of waterfalls and natural beauty was too enticing to resist. The drive to Akchour was an adventure in itself, with the landscape transforming from the tight confines of the town to the expansive views of the Rif Mountains. The air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and earth. Upon arrival, we embarked on a hike towards the Akchour Waterfalls. The trail was a bit challenging, with some steep inclines, but the stunning scenery kept us motivated. We passed other hikers, exchanged smiles, and shared in the collective anticipation of reaching the falls.


Discover the serene beauty of Akchour, Morocco, where breathtaking waterfalls and lush landscapes await your exploration.

The Akchour Waterfalls were a sight to behold. The water cascaded down the rocks with a thunderous roar, creating a refreshing mist that enveloped us. Lasse immediately scrambled down to the base of the falls, eager to feel the spray on his face. Astrid and I found a quiet spot to sit and simply absorb the natural beauty around us. It was a moment of pure serenity, a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. I took out my camera, attempting to capture the scene, but no photograph could truly do justice to the experience.

On our way back to Chefchaouen, we stopped at Jabir shop chefchaouen. It was a treasure trove of local crafts and souvenirs. Astrid purchased a beautiful hand-woven rug, while Lasse picked out a few small trinkets for his friends back home. I found a unique piece of pottery that reminded me of the colors of Chefchaouen and decided it would be a perfect addition to our living room in Denmark.


Explore Jabir Shop in Chefchaouen for unique Moroccan gifts and souvenirs that embody the spirit of the blue city.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Restaurant Ali Baba for a late lunch. We enjoyed a delicious meal of traditional Moroccan cuisine, savoring the rich flavors and spices. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Ali Baba in Chefchaouen's enchanting blue streets.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to journey to Tetouan, a city with its own unique charm and history. We'll be visiting the Tetuan Modern Art Center, Plaza Mohammed V, and El Mellah, eager to uncover the artistic and cultural treasures that Tetouan has to offer. Astrid is particularly excited about the art center, while Lasse is looking forward to exploring the old Jewish quarter [El Mellah]. And, of course, we'll be sure to find a cozy spot to enjoy the sunset, perhaps with a drink at Sunset at sunset.

Back at Hotel Barcelona, as I reflect on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Chefchaouen has a way of captivating the soul, of drawing you in with its beauty and its stories. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the vibrant streets, discover hidden waterfalls, and connect with the warmth of the local people. And as I drift off to sleep, I know that tomorrow will bring new adventures, new discoveries, and new memories to cherish.


Discover the charm of Chefchaouen at Hotel Barcelona, a cozy 3-star retreat in the heart of the Blue City, perfect for adventurous travelers.

Before I turn in for the night, I must mention the little mishaps that always seem to accompany our travels. Today, it was my portable phone charger that I realized I had forgotten. It's a small thing, but in this digital age, a dead phone can feel like a major crisis! Astrid, ever the prepared one, had packed an extra, so crisis averted. But it's these little moments that make travel real, that remind us that even the most carefully planned trips can have their unexpected twists and turns. And it's how we handle these moments that truly defines our experience.

For dinner tonight, we chose Restaurant Populaire [this restaurant could not be found]. It was a delightful, unassuming spot, filled with locals and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The food was simple but delicious, and the prices were incredibly reasonable. It was a reminder that sometimes the best travel experiences are found in the most unexpected places. I highly recommend venturing off the beaten path and exploring the local eateries; you never know what culinary treasures you might discover.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Populaire in Chefchaouen, where every dish is a celebration of local flavors and culinary traditions.