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

A Day of Natural Wonders

Today, our family ventured beyond the blue walls of Chefchaouen and into the heart of the Rif Mountains. We traded the intricate alleyways for rugged trails, the echoes of the medina for the sounds of rushing water, and the scent of spices for the fresh, crisp air of Parc National de Talassemtane. It was a day of exploration, physical challenge, and profound connection with nature's beauty.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Sindibad. The café is nestled with a stunning view overlooking Place Outa al Hammam. We enjoyed traditional Moroccan pastries and strong coffee, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead. Lasse, of course, devoured everything in sight, teenage metabolism being what it is. Astrid and I savored the quiet morning, watching the town slowly awaken. It reminded me of early mornings in Arezzo, the smell of fresh bread wafting through the streets.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Sindibad in Chefchaouen – a cozy haven for food lovers seeking local delicacies.

With our backpacks packed – I had, of course, remembered the essentials, though Astrid did tease me about nearly forgetting the sunscreen – we set off towards Parc National de Talassemtane. The drive itself was a treat, the landscape transforming from the blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen to rolling hills and verdant forests. The air grew noticeably cooler and cleaner as we ascended into the mountains. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation, like a child on the way to a long-awaited adventure.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Parc National de Talassemtane, a hidden gem near Chefchaouen in Morocco.

Akchour Waterfalls: A Hiker's Paradise

Our main destination was the Waterfalls Akchour, a series of cascades hidden within the park. The trail to the falls was moderately challenging, a mix of rocky paths and streams to cross. Comfortable walking shoes, as I had wisely packed, were essential. The September sun was warm, but the shade of the trees offered a welcome respite. I was glad I had also packed a light jacket as suggested, the mountains can be unpredictable.


Explore the breathtaking Waterfalls of Akchour in Morocco, a stunning natural paradise with scenic hikes and refreshing waters that captivate every visitor.

Lasse, with his boundless energy, bounded ahead, eager to conquer the trail. Astrid and I took a more leisurely pace, taking in the scenery and enjoying the tranquility of the forest. The scent of pine and damp earth filled the air, a world away from the bustling city. I found myself reflecting on the simple beauty of nature, a stark contrast to the intricate craftsmanship of antique furniture, yet equally captivating.

As we hiked deeper into the park, we began to hear the sound of rushing water, a tantalizing hint of what was to come. The anticipation grew with each step, and finally, we arrived at the first of the waterfalls. It was a sight to behold – crystal-clear water cascading down moss-covered rocks into a turquoise pool below. The scene was like something from a fairy tale, untouched and pristine.

The beauty of a waterfall lies not just in its power, but in its ability to transform the landscape and refresh the soul.

Lasse, without hesitation, plunged into the pool, his laughter echoing through the forest. Astrid and I, after a moment of hesitation, followed suit. The water was bracingly cold, but the invigorating effect was immediate. We swam and splashed, feeling the stress of everyday life wash away with the current. It was a moment of pure joy, a shared experience that strengthened our bond as a family.

After our refreshing dip, we continued our hike to the Grande Cascade D'akchour, the largest of the waterfalls. The trail became steeper and more challenging, but the reward was well worth the effort. As we rounded a bend, the full majesty of the falls came into view – a torrent of water cascading down a towering cliff face, the spray creating a rainbow in the sunlight. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight, a testament to the power and beauty of nature.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Grande Cascade D'akchour, a tranquil natural preserve near Chefchaouen, rich in waterfalls and stunning landscapes.

We spent some time simply admiring the falls, feeling the cool mist on our faces and listening to the thunderous roar of the water. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly do it justice. It was a moment that had to be experienced to be fully appreciated. We even saw some monkeys, natives to the park, adding to the exotic feel of the place.

A Taste of the Rif Mountains

By this point, we had worked up quite an appetite. We made our way to Restaurant Terrasse Djebli for lunch. The restaurant offered a stunning view of the Rif Mountains, the perfect backdrop for a delicious meal. We feasted on traditional Moroccan dishes, tagines and couscous, savoring the flavors of the region. Lasse, predictably, ordered a double portion of everything. Astrid and I enjoyed a leisurely conversation, reflecting on the day's adventures. The service was wonderful, and the staff were eager to share local tips.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst stunning views at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli in Chefchaouen.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the mountains, we made our way back to Chefchaouen. The drive was quiet and peaceful, each of us lost in our own thoughts. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared, the memories we had created.

For dinner, we decided to try Restaurant Lalla Messaouda. The restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm atmosphere. We enjoyed a delicious meal of lamb tagine and couscous, savoring the flavors of Morocco. Astrid particularly enjoyed the lamb, noting its tenderness and rich flavor. It reminded us of the simple, hearty meals we often prepare at home in Silkeborg, albeit with a Moroccan twist. After dinner, we strolled through the town square, enjoying the cool evening air and the lively atmosphere. We picked up some souvenirs for friends and family back home, small tokens of our adventure.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Lalla Messaouda in Chefchaouen – where every meal tells a story.

Tonight, as I sit here writing this, I can still feel the cool mist of the waterfalls on my face, still hear the laughter of my family echoing through the forest. It was a day of natural wonders, a day of physical challenge, and a day of profound connection with each other and the world around us. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding, the experiences that stay with you long after you've returned home. Moments like these are far more precious than any antique I've ever restored.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the heart of Chefchaouen itself, visiting Plaza Uta el Hamman, the Grand Mosque, and the Ethnographic Museum. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting Hibart Souvenirs Shop to find some unique mementos of our trip. But for now, I'll rest and dream of waterfalls and mountain trails, grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

The forgotten umbrella and portable phone charger from our essentials list would have been useful, but they were not missed too much. Perhaps tomorrow we will find somewhere to buy them.

The hike to Akchour Waterfalls is best done between October and April. The falls can dry up during the hottest months of the year. However, in September, the weather is still warm and pleasant, and the hike is still enjoyable.