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

Nature's Embrace: Akchour and Beyond

Today was all about embracing the natural beauty surrounding Chefchaouen. Olivia and I ventured out to Akchour, a place I'd heard whispers about – a hidden gem where waterfalls cascade through the Rif Mountains. It was a day of hiking, exploration, and soaking in the kind of scenery that reminds you why you travel in the first place.


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

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at a local spot called Traditional kitchen. It was a simple, satisfying meal, the perfect fuel for the adventures ahead. I had some traditional Moroccan honey toast, which reminded me of my childhood in the British Virgin Islands, where simple, flavorful breakfasts set the tone for the day. Olivia opted for a classic Moroccan breakfast, fried egg served in olive oil with a wedge of cream cheese and a couple of olives, and sweet mint tea. We needed the energy for the hike ahead, and it definitely did the trick. The tea was especially welcome, warming us up for the day ahead.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Traditional Kitchen in Chefchaouen – an unforgettable culinary experience awaits.

The drive to Akchour was scenic in itself, winding through the mountains and offering glimpses of rural Moroccan life. As an urban planner, I couldn't help but observe the way communities were integrated into the landscape, a stark contrast to the urban sprawl I often deal with back in Toronto. It's fascinating to see how different cultures interact with their environment.

Arriving at Akchour, the air was fresh and crisp. We started our hike, and immediately, I was struck by the lush greenery. Waterfalls seemed to appear around every corner. The first part of the trail was relatively easy, a gentle walk that allowed us to soak in the surroundings. Olivia, ever the keen photographer, was in her element, snapping photos of the vibrant flora and the crystal-clear water. I found myself reflecting on how different this was from the concrete landscapes I usually navigate. It's a good reminder to seek out nature, to reconnect with the earth.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are the ones that lead us off the beaten path and into the heart of nature.

As we continued, the trail became a bit more challenging. There were steeper sections and some rocky terrain, but nothing too strenuous. We took our time, enjoying the views and the company of fellow hikers. I even managed to practice my (admittedly rusty) French with a group of travelers from Quebec. It's always a pleasure to connect with people from different backgrounds, to share stories and experiences.

Finally, we reached the Akchour waterfalls. The sight was truly breathtaking. The water cascaded down the rocks, creating a refreshing mist that cooled us down after the hike. We spent some time simply admiring the falls, listening to the sound of the water, and feeling the power of nature. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to escape the stresses of modern life and simply be present in the moment.

After taking in the views, we decided to continue our adventure with lunch at Restaurant Jbaria. The restaurant offered a cozy spot to experience traditional Moroccan cuisine! We relaxed and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere away from the tourist crowds on the beautiful terrace upstairs. We shared a delicious tagine, savoring the rich flavors and spices. It was the perfect way to refuel after our hike. The bissara and lentils were absolutely delicious and we were amazed by their fresh, high-quality bread. As an avid cook myself, I always appreciate the art of preparing a good meal, and this tagine was definitely a culinary masterpiece.


Discover the authentic taste of Morocco at Restaurant Jbaria in Chefchaouen—where every dish tells a story.

In the late afternoon, we made our way back towards Chefchaouen, but not before stopping at a viewpoint overlooking the blue city. The view was simply stunning. From above, the town looked like a cluster of sapphires nestled in the mountains. It was a perfect way to capture the essence of Chefchaouen, to see it in all its glory. The hike to the viewpoint was easy, more of a walk up above the city. Along the way, we saw small houses, interesting plants and even some livestock. It made for a little insight into the local lives of the people who live in these mountains. The Spanish Mosque sits on a hill that perfectly overlooks Chefchaouen’s medina. I took a moment to reflect on the day, on the beauty we had witnessed, and on the simple joys of travel.


Discover the stunning Tisemlale Viewpoint in Morocco, where breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes await every traveler.

Before heading back to our hotel, we decided to stop for a drink at Café Sindibad. It was a lively spot, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered some mint tea and relaxed, watching the world go by. It was a perfect way to end the day, to soak in the atmosphere of Chefchaouen and to feel a sense of connection to this vibrant community. I was reminded of exploring Toronto's diverse neighborhoods, always finding new and exciting places to experience.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Sindibad in Chefchaouen, where flavors and culture blend beautifully.

As we walked back to Hotel Dar Mounir, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. We’d enjoyed a delicious goat tagine and lemon chicken dish. There are wonderfully smelling roast chicken in the area. The rooftop area is beautiful. It was a day of nature, culture, and connection, a day that reminded me why I love to travel. Olivia and I chatted about our plans for tomorrow. We're planning to visit Hero Eagle and Bab El Hammar. Maybe we'll find some interesting shops too, like La Botica De La Abuela De Aladdin. I'm looking forward to seeing what Chefchaouen has in store for us next.


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

Chefchaouen continues to surprise and delight. It's a place that nourishes the soul, a place that reminds you of the beauty of the world and the importance of human connection. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I'm already dreaming of the adventures that await us tomorrow.

Looking ahead, I’m excited about our plans for tomorrow. We are planning to visit Hero Eagle and Bab El Hammar. Maybe we'll find some interesting shops too, like La Botica De La Abuela De Aladdin. I'm looking forward to seeing what Chefchaouen has in store for us next.