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

Chasing Waterfalls and City Views in Chefchaouen

Today was all about embracing the vibrant spirit of Chefchaouen. Olivia and I ventured beyond the well-trodden paths, seeking out the local haunts and panoramic vistas that make this blue city so unique. It was a day filled with the gentle sounds of water, the warmth of the Moroccan sun, and the tantalizing aromas of local cuisine.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Sofia. The cafe was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in this enchanting city. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast –beghrir (pancakes) with honey and a steaming glass of mint tea. Olivia, ever the adventurous one, tried the local specialty, khobz (bread) with amlou (a chocolate spread made from almonds and argan oil). It was the perfect way to fuel up for our day of exploration.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off towards Ras El Ma, the spring that serves as the lifeblood of Chefchaouen. The walk there was a sensory feast in itself. The narrow alleyways, painted in every shade of blue imaginable, were alive with the sounds of artisans at work, children playing, and the murmur of conversations in Darija, the local dialect. As an urban planner, I couldn't help but admire the way the city was organically designed, with each street and building seamlessly blending into the next. The layout of the town is amazing, and it is easy to see why it is a popular place for tourists to visit.

Reaching Ras El Ma, we were greeted by the sight of fresh mountain water cascading into the town. It was a bustling scene, with locals gathering to wash clothes and socialize. The air was filled with the sound of rushing water and the chatter of voices. Olivia, ever the people person, struck up a conversation with a local woman who was expertly scrubbing a rug in the stream. I learned that Ras El Ma is not only a source of water but also a communal gathering spot, a place where the residents of Chefchaouen come together to connect and share their lives. We took some time to enjoy the refreshing spray of the water and soak in the lively atmosphere. I took a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this vibrant scene.


Experience the serene beauty of Ras El Ma, a tranquil oasis in Chefchaouen, where nature and Moroccan culture blend seamlessly for a perfect escape.

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not only in its blue-washed streets but also in the warmth and authenticity of its people.

Next on our itinerary was the City View Point. The climb was a bit steep, but the panoramic views were well worth the effort. From the top, we could see the entire city spread out before us, a sea of blue against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the scene, making it even more magical. I pointed out to Olivia how the city's layout seemed to follow the natural contours of the land, a testament to the ingenuity of its builders. We spent a good hour at the viewpoint, simply soaking in the beauty of the surroundings and taking photos to capture the moment.


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

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way towards Bab El Ain, one of the main entrances to the Chefchaouen Medina. This historic gate marks the dividing point between the colonial side of Chefchaouen and the old town. The gate is a beautiful structure, and it is easy to see why it is a popular spot for tourists to take photos. As we approached, we were greeted by the sight of food vendors selling everything from cactus fruit to hot chickpea cake. The aroma of spices and grilled meats filled the air, making our stomachs rumble.


Explore the historical beauty of Bab El Ain in Chefchaouen, a stunning gateway to Moroccan heritage and vibrant local culture.

For lunch, we decided to try Restaurant Ali Baba. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by the warm and inviting ambiance, accentuated by Moroccan decor and soft lighting. The staff were incredibly friendly and eager to share their knowledge about Moroccan cuisine. Olivia and I decided to share a tagine and some couscous. The tagine was rich and flavorful, with tender pieces of lamb and a medley of vegetables. The couscous was light and fluffy, perfectly complementing the tagine. It was a truly authentic Moroccan dining experience, and one that we will not soon forget. I was surprised to see that they had a separate vegan menu, which is nice to see as a sign that the restaurant is inclusive.


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

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to indulge in a bit of local nightlife. We headed to Bar Oum Rabie, a popular spot known for its lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks. The bar was buzzing with locals and tourists, all enjoying the evening air. I ordered a local beer, while Olivia opted for a glass of Moroccan wine. We sat outside, soaking in the energy of the city and chatting about our day's adventures. As someone who enjoys experiencing the culture of the places I visit, this was a great way to end the day.


Experience the flavors of Morocco at Bar Oum Rabie, a charming grill and wine bar in the heart of Chefchaouen.

As we sipped our drinks, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's experiences. Chefchaouen had exceeded all of my expectations. It was a city that was not only visually stunning but also rich in culture and history. The people were warm and welcoming, the food was delicious, and the atmosphere was simply magical. I am so glad that Olivia and I decided to come here, and I know that we will cherish these memories for a lifetime. I am excited for tomorrow, when we will be visiting Waterfalls Akchour and Parc National de Talassemtane. I hear the scenery is spectacular and I am excited to experience it with Olivia.

Before heading back to Hotel Dar Mounir, we took one last stroll through the medina. The blue streets were even more enchanting at night, illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. The air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, creating a sense of community and joy. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover the enchanting Hotel Dar Mounir in Chefchaouen, where comfort meets culture, and unforgettable experiences await every traveler.

As we walked, Olivia turned to me and said, "This is what I love about traveling – discovering hidden gems and connecting with people from different cultures." I couldn't agree more. Chefchaouen had captured our hearts, and we knew that we would never forget our time in this magical blue city.

Back at the hotel, we relaxed on our balcony, savoring the last moments of the day. The sounds of the city drifted up to us, a lullaby that lulled us into a peaceful sleep. As I drifted off, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a unique and beautiful place. Chefchaouen, you have stolen a piece of my heart.

Tomorrow, we're planning a hike to the Akchour Waterfalls and a visit to the Talassemtane National Park, hoping to experience more of the natural beauty that surrounds this enchanting town. I am looking forward to the new adventure with Olivia. I also hope to stop by the B & H Art Shop, as I am looking for a piece of art to bring back home with me.

Dinner at Mandala: A Culinary Adventure

Later in the evening, after our adventures around Chefchaouen, we decided to try Mandala for dinner. The restaurant is known for its pizza, and we decided to give it a try. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and is a great place to relax after a long day of exploring.


Experience unique pizza flavors in Chefchaouen's enchanting atmosphere at Mandala – where Moroccan tradition meets culinary creativity.

Mandala is more than just a pizza restaurant; it's a culinary gem located in the picturesque city of Chefchaouen, Morocco. The restaurant's decor reflects the artistic spirit of the region, creating a cozy atmosphere that complements the flavors on your plate. Whether you choose to dine indoors or on their charming outdoor terrace, you will enjoy views that enhance your dining experience. We chose to sit indoors, as it was a bit chilly outside.

The menu at Mandala features an array of mouthwatering pizzas that cater to diverse palates, from classic Margherita to innovative local toppings that incorporate fresh Moroccan ingredients. We decided to try the special pizza featuring local ingredients for a true taste of Morocco. The pizza was delicious, and we were both very happy with our choice. The crust was crispy, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful.

What sets Mandala apart is not only its delicious offerings but also its commitment to providing a memorable dining experience. The staff is attentive and friendly, always ready to recommend dishes and ensure your meal is enjoyable. We found the staff to be very helpful and friendly, and they made us feel very welcome.

After dinner, we headed back to our hotel, feeling satisfied and content. We had a great day exploring Chefchaouen, and we were both looking forward to what tomorrow would bring.