Cultural Immersion in the Blue Pearl: A Trip to Chefchaouen

A Day Away from the Blue

Today marked a delightful shift from the mesmerizing blue of Chefchaouen's medina to the equally captivating greens and browns of its surrounding nature. I always find that a change of scenery, even within the same location, can bring a fresh perspective and renewed appreciation for a place. Today was all about embracing that change, and it did not disappoint!

My friends and I started our day with a hearty breakfast at Chez Aziz. It seems like this place has been around since forever, 1992 to be exact! It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a Chefchaouen institution! I opted for some traditional Moroccan pastries and a strong coffee, fueling up for our day of exploration. The pastries were flaky and sweet, the perfect start before heading out. I even grabbed a couple of sandwiches for later. Fuelled up, we headed for Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve.


Experience the fusion of traditional Moroccan cuisine and international flavors at Chez Aziz in Chefchaouen.

The drive to Jebel Bouhachem was an experience in itself. Leaving the blue hues of Chefchaouen behind, the landscape transformed into rolling hills and lush greenery. The reserve is huge, covering a massive 33,000 hectares in the heart of the Western Rif mountains! As we approached, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and earth. I was excited to immerse myself in the natural beauty of this region.

We spent a good portion of the morning hiking through the reserve. The trails were well-marked, and we chose a route that offered a mix of gentle slopes and more challenging climbs. The views were simply breathtaking. From higher vantage points, we could see the town of Chefchaouen nestled in the valley below, a sea of blue against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains. The reserve is home to diverse flora and fauna, and although we didn't spot any Barbary macaques, we did see a variety of birds and butterflies. The park is home to 33 species of mammals, 91 species of birds and 29 species of reptiles, so there is plenty to see! The peace and quiet of the forest were a welcome contrast to the bustling medina.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers and adventurers in Morocco.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After our hike, we decided to relax and have a picnic lunch at Park Sidi Abdelhamid. This park is a true hidden gem, a sanctuary of green amidst the urban landscape. The park was easy to find, located 1.5 kilometers southeast of Plaza Uta el-Hammam. We found a shady spot under a large tree and enjoyed the sandwiches I had bought at Chez Aziz.


Discover the serene beauty of Park Sidi Abdelhamid in Chefchaouen, a tranquil escape filled with lush landscapes and vibrant flora.

The park was alive with activity. Families were picnicking, children were playing, and locals were simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. It was lovely to see people connecting with nature and each other. I even saw a group of people practicing yoga under the trees. The air was fresh and clean, and the views of the surrounding mountains were stunning. It was the perfect place to unwind and recharge after our morning hike.

As the afternoon drew to a close, our stomachs started rumbling again, reminding us it was time to think about dinner. We decided to try Restaurant Bab Kasaba for lunch. Located right in front of the Kasbah, it was in the perfect spot. The staff were super friendly and the food was amazing. I decided to try the chicken tagine with lemon. It was delicious! The tagine was flavorful and tender, and the lemon added a bright, zesty note. My friends had the couscous and were equally impressed.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors in Chefchaouen at Restaurant Bab Kasaba - where culinary tradition meets breathtaking views.

Finally, as the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to Sunset at Sunset. I’d heard whispers about this place, a local secret known for its laid-back vibe and, of course, its stunning sunset views. It wasn't hard to find, a quaint pub and bar nestled in Jamaa. Sunset at Sunset is open from 10 AM to 6:30 PM daily. We ordered some fresh orange juice and found a spot on the terrace. The sky was ablaze with color, painting the blue city in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment, a perfect end to a perfect day.


Unwind at Sunset at Sunset, a magical bar in Chefchaouen offering breathtaking views and a relaxing ambiance amidst vibrant blue-washed buildings.

Reflecting on the day, I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience Chefchaouen beyond its famous blue walls. The natural beauty of Jebel Bouhachem and Park Sidi Abdelhamid, coupled with the delicious food and warm hospitality of the local restaurants, created a truly memorable day. It reinforced my belief that travel is about more than just seeing the sights; it's about immersing yourself in the culture, connecting with nature, and creating lasting memories.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into the heart of Chefchaouen, exploring El Mellah and Bab El Ain. I’m eager to uncover more of this blue pearl’s secrets, and I have a feeling that Chefchaouen still has many stories to tell.

Before heading back to the hotel, Liam and I spoke about how much Nadia would have loved running around Park Sidi Abdelhamid. I made a mental note to bring her here one day. It’s experiences like these that remind me why I love sharing my adventures with all of you. Until tomorrow!