Solo Exploration of Chefchaouen's Blue Streets

Day 2: A Day of Discoveries: Soaking in Chefchaouen's Natural Beauty

Explore Chefchaouen's serene springs, panoramic viewpoints, and authentic Moroccan flavors on a vibrant solo journey.

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Chasing Waterfalls and City Views


Today was all about embracing the natural beauty surrounding Chefchaouen. After a peaceful night at Hotel Dar Mounir, I was eager to explore beyond the blue walls and immerse myself in what this region had to offer. It's funny, isn't it? How sometimes the most beautiful experiences are the ones you stumble upon when you least expect it.

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

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Sofia. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea and some local pastries. It was a delightful start, fueling me for the adventures ahead. I even managed to practice some of my limited Arabic with the friendly staff, a small victory that always brings a smile to my face. It reminded me of the cozy cafes back in Dresden, but with a distinctly Moroccan twist.

Explore Chefchaouen: A Moroccan gem known for its stunning blue streets and authentic culinary experiences.
Explore Chefchaouen: A Moroccan gem known for its stunning blue streets and authentic culinary experiences.

First on the itinerary was Ras El Ma, a natural spring located just outside the medina. The walk there was pleasant, with the sounds of the town slowly fading as I approached the Rif Mountains. Ras El Ma, which translates to 'Head of the Water' in Arabic, is where fresh mountain water flows into the town. It’s a communal gathering spot where locals come to wash clothes and socialize.

Experience the serene beauty of Ras El Ma, a tranquil oasis in Chefchaouen, where nature and Moroccan culture blend seamlessly for a perfect escape.
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 spring itself was a refreshing oasis. The water cascaded down, creating small waterfalls. I watched as women washed their clothes in the cool water, a scene that felt both timeless and deeply connected to the rhythm of daily life here. I dipped my hands in the water, feeling the chill against my skin – a welcome sensation in the mild November air. It was a simple, yet profound experience, a reminder of the importance of water and community.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments.


After soaking in the tranquility of Ras El Ma, I decided to hike up to the City View Point, a spot offering panoramic views of Chefchaouen. The trail started near Ras El Ma, winding its way up the hillside. The path was a bit rocky, but the views along the way were more than worth the effort. I passed small houses and terraced gardens, catching glimpses of local life away from the bustling medina.

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

As I climbed higher, the blue of Chefchaouen began to spread out beneath me like a vibrant canvas. The contrast between the blue buildings and the surrounding green hills was striking. Finally, I reached the viewpoint, also known as the Spanish Mosque. This mosque, built in the 1920s but never used, sits atop a hill, providing the perfect vantage point.

The view was breathtaking. The entire town stretched out before me, a sea of blue nestled in the valley. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the buildings, making the blue hues even more intense. I spent a long time there, simply absorbing the beauty and peace of the moment. It was a perfect opportunity to reflect on my journey so far and to appreciate the unique charm of Chefchaouen.

For lunch, I ventured to Mandala, a restaurant known for its Italian cuisine. While in Morocco, I thought? But I was curious. I had a delightful pizza, a welcome change from the tagines and couscous I had been enjoying. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It was a nice break, and the pizza was surprisingly good.

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

As the day drew to a close, I decided to experience the sunset at Sunset at Sunset, a bar known for its stunning views. The bar was lively, filled with both tourists and locals. I ordered a traditional Moroccan mint tea and found a spot on the terrace. The sunset was spectacular, painting the sky with vibrant colors. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.

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

For dinner, I chose Assaada, a Moroccan restaurant recommended for its authentic cuisine. I ordered a lamb tagine, slow-cooked with aromatic spices. The flavors were incredible, a true taste of Morocco. The restaurant had a warm and inviting ambiance, and the staff were attentive and helpful. It was a satisfying end to a day filled with natural beauty and cultural immersion.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Assaada in Chefchaouen - a must-visit dining destination for travelers seeking local flavors.
Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Assaada in Chefchaouen - a must-visit dining destination for travelers seeking local flavors.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of the medina, visiting Bab El Ain and Plaza Uta el Hamman. I’m also looking forward to visiting Hibart Souvenirs Shop to find a few mementos of my time here. I can't wait to see what new adventures await me in the blue city.

As I sit here, reflecting on the day, I realize that Chefchaouen is more than just a pretty town. It's a place with a unique atmosphere, a rich culture, and a welcoming spirit. It's a place that stays with you long after you leave. And I am so glad I decided to come here on my solo adventure. It feels good to be out here on my own. Maximilian and Clara are always in my thoughts, but I feel like I am recharging my batteries, and I will be a better wife and mother because of it. I really miss knitting, though. I should see if I can find some yarn tomorrow. Maybe something blue?

Goodnight from Chefchaouen. I can't wait to tell you about tomorrow's adventures!

P.S. I really need to remember to get an adapter. My phone is almost out of battery! And sunglasses. The sun here is deceptively strong, even in November. I can't believe I forgot those!

Go to day 1 Diving into the Blue: My First Day in Chefchaouen
Go to day 3 Lost in the Azure Alleys: A Day of Discovery in Chefchaouen
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Solo Exploration of Chefchaouen's Blue Streets

Discover the blue-hued charm of Chefchaouen on a solo journey, blending cultural immersion and scenic exploration in Morocco.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Emilía Jónsdóttir
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Translator and Freelance Writer
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 38

Hallo! Ég heiti Emilía Jónsdóttir, and welcome to my little corner of the internet! As an Icelander living in Dresden, Germany, I'm passionate about sharing my love for travel, sustainable living, and unique cultural experiences. Whether I'm exploring hidden gems in Europe with my family or revisiting the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, I'm always seeking authentic adventures. Join me as I share practical tips, personal stories, and a touch of Scandinavian inspiration to help you create your own unforgettable journeys!

Interests:
  • Linguistics
  • Literature
  • Photography
  • Scandinavian Design
  • Sustainability
More about Emilía Jónsdóttir

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Explore locations from this diary

  • Hotel Dar Mounir

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

  • Ras El Ma

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

  • City View Point

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

  • Sofia

    Explore Chefchaouen: A Moroccan gem known for its stunning blue streets and authentic culinary experiences.

  • Mandala

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

  • Assaada

    Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Assaada in Chefchaouen - a must-visit dining destination for travelers seeking local flavors.

  • Sunset at sunset

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

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