Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Solo Journey to Chefchaouen

Chasing Horizons in the Blue Pearl

Today was a day of seeking higher ground, both literally and figuratively. After immersing myself in the maze-like medina of Chefchaouen for the past few days, I felt a strong pull to see the city from a different perspective. I wanted to understand its place within the vast Moroccan landscape and breathe in the fresh air of the Rif Mountains. It was a day to reconnect with nature and find a sense of peace away from the bustling streets.

My day began, as most do here, with a simple yet satisfying breakfast at Caféteria Lhawta. The strong, aromatic coffee was just what I needed to kickstart my morning. I sat outside, watching the town slowly awaken, the blue hues of the buildings becoming more vibrant as the sun climbed higher. It's amazing how a simple cup of coffee can offer a moment of reflection before diving into the day's adventures. I made a mental note to try and find a similar spot back in Bonn; perhaps Hans would enjoy it too. I should also remember to bring back some Moroccan coffee for him to try.


Discover Caféteria Lhawta in Chefchaouen: where aromatic coffees meet Moroccan charm amidst stunning blue streets.

With renewed energy, I set off towards the City View Point. The walk was invigorating, the air crisp and clean. As I ascended, the panoramic view of Chefchaouen began to unfold before me. The city, a sea of blue, nestled snugly between the mountains, was a sight to behold. From this vantage point, I could truly appreciate the unique beauty and tranquility of Chefchaouen. I spent a good hour simply soaking it all in, snapping photos, and etching the scene into my memory.


Experience stunning panoramic views of Chefchaouen's blue cityscape from the breathtaking City View Point, a must-visit tourist attraction in Morocco.

The world reveals its beauty to those who dare to seek it from new heights.

After my fill of the cityscape, I decided to venture further into the Rif Mountains, towards the Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve. I was drawn by the promise of lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and a chance to immerse myself in nature. The journey to the reserve was an adventure in itself, a scenic bus ride that wound through the mountains, offering glimpses of rural Moroccan life. I even saw some women washing clothes in the river, just like in the olden days. Sofia would have loved to see that!


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

Arriving at Jebel Bouhachem, I was immediately struck by the stark contrast to the blue city. Here, the landscape was dominated by verdant forests, rugged hills, and the sounds of nature. I decided to embark on one of the hiking trails, eager to explore the reserve's biodiversity. The trail was well-maintained, and as I walked, I was surrounded by a symphony of birdsong. I even spotted a few Barbary macaques swinging through the trees, a truly special moment.

The reserve is vast, spanning over 33,000 hectares, and I knew I couldn't explore it all in a single day. But I was content to simply wander, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings. It was a welcome escape from the sometimes overwhelming sensory experience of the medina. I made a promise to myself to return someday and explore more of this natural paradise.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way back to Chefchaouen, my body tired but my spirit rejuvenated. Before heading back to Maison D'hôtes Afassi, I decided to treat myself to dinner at Restaurant Hajji. I had heard great things about their traditional Moroccan cuisine, and I was eager to sample some local flavors. I ordered a tagine, a slow-cooked stew of meat and vegetables, infused with fragrant spices. It was absolutely delicious, a comforting and satisfying end to a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Hajji in Chefchaouen – where every dish tells a story of local tradition.

After dinner, there was just one more thing on my agenda: Sunset at Sunset. I had heard whispers of this charming bar, known for its breathtaking views and tranquil ambiance. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. As I sipped on a refreshing Moroccan mint tea, I watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a truly magical moment, one that I will cherish forever.


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

Tomorrow, I plan to delve deeper into Chefchaouen's historical heart, visiting the Hero Eagle, the Kasbah, and the Sidi Bouchouka photo spot. I'm also looking forward to trying the local cuisine at Restaurant blue dream for breakfast, Chez Aziz for lunch, and Restaurant Jbaria for dinner. And, of course, I'll be sure to pick up some souvenirs at CHAOUEN GIFTS. But for now, I'm content to simply bask in the afterglow of a day well-spent, grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and serenity of Chefchaouen.

I think I'll call Hans when I get back to Maison D'hôtes Afassi. I miss him and Sofia. I can't wait to tell them all about my adventures here. Maybe we can plan a trip together someday. Sofia would love running around the blue streets.

As I sit here, penning these thoughts, I am reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta, the famous Moroccan explorer:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And so, my journey continues, one day at a time, one story at a time. I'm so glad I decided to come to Chefchaouen. It's a truly special place, one that has captured my heart and soul. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.