A Blue-Hued Adventure in Chefchaouen

Finding Serenity Beyond the Blue Walls

Today, Daniel and I ventured beyond the enchanting blue hues of Chefchaouen to discover the raw, untamed beauty that lies just a short drive away. It was a day filled with the sounds of rushing water, the scent of pine, and the awe-inspiring vistas that reminded us why we crave these escapes from our London life. It was a welcome change of pace, trading the familiar marketing strategies for the unpredictable beauty of nature.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Toda Creperie & Ice Cream. We shared a couple of sweet crepes, which gave us the energy we needed for the day ahead. Daniel opted for a classic Nutella crepe, while I chose a seasonal fruit crepe, savoring the burst of flavors with every bite. It's amazing how a simple crepe can taste so heavenly when enjoyed in such a charming setting. I made a mental note to try to recreate the crepe when we get back to London, maybe with some locally sourced ingredients from the farmers market near our flat. It's little things like that that keep the travel memories alive, you know?

Experience delightful crepes and artisanal ice cream in Chefchaouen's charming ambiance.
Fueled up, we set off towards Akchour Waterfalls. The drive itself was a treat, with the landscape transforming from the blue-washed streets to rolling hills and lush greenery. As we approached Akchour, the air grew noticeably fresher, carrying the promise of the natural wonders that awaited us. I was so glad I remembered to pack my camera; I had a feeling I would need it.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Waterfalls of Akchour, a natural wonder in Morocco perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
The hike to the waterfalls was invigorating. The trail wound through a stunning valley, with the sound of rushing water accompanying us every step of the way. The September sun dappled through the trees, creating an ethereal glow that made everything seem magical. We passed several Moroccan families enjoying the day, their laughter and chatter adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The path was a bit rocky in places, so I was grateful for my comfortable walking shoes, one of the essentials I made sure to pack.

Nature's beauty is a gift that reminds us to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life.

Reaching the Akchour Waterfalls was like stepping into another world. The cascading water plunged into a turquoise pool, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. Daniel and I spent a good hour simply taking in the view, snapping photos, and reveling in the tranquility of the surroundings. I even dipped my toes in the icy water – a truly refreshing experience! It was the perfect spot to just breathe and be present, a far cry from the deadlines and demands of my marketing job back in London.
After our waterfall interlude, we decided to explore Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve. This vast nature park offered a completely different landscape, with its dense forests and panoramic views. We opted for a leisurely hike, enjoying the diverse flora and fauna that call this reserve home. I tried my best to identify the various bird species we spotted, but I definitely need to brush up on my birdwatching skills. Daniel, ever the patient one, helped me with the guidebook I had brought along, pointing out key features and markings. It’s moments like these that make traveling with him so special.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers and adventurers in Morocco.
As we hiked, we came across a viewpoint that offered breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The sheer scale of the landscape was humbling, reminding us of the power and beauty of nature. We sat there for a while, just soaking it all in, feeling a sense of peace and connection that's hard to find in the city. I took a few deep breaths, feeling grateful for this escape from the ordinary.
With the sun beginning to dip below the horizon, we made our way back towards Chefchaouen. Before heading back to our hotel, we stopped by CHAOUEN GIFTS to pick up a few souvenirs. I found a beautiful, hand-painted ceramic bowl that I knew would look perfect on our dining table back in London. It's always nice to bring a little piece of our travels back home with us.

Explore the vibrant world of Chaouen Gifts in Chefchaouen, where unique Moroccan crafts meet exceptional hospitality.
For dinner, we decided to try Restaurant Ali Baba. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We ordered a tagine and some couscous, savoring the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and natural beauty. I made sure to try the vegetarian tagine, and it was packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Daniel opted for a meat dish and was equally pleased.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Ali Baba in Chefchaouen's enchanting blue streets.
As we walked back to Hotel Casa Miguel, the blue streets of Chefchaouen seemed even more magical under the moonlight. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Kasbah and Park Sidi Abdelhamid. I'm looking forward to delving deeper into the history and culture of this enchanting city. And perhaps we'll stop by Cafe Clock for a relaxing evening.

Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel Casa Miguel, your perfect base in the heart of Chefchaouen, complete with wellness services and local cuisine.
But for now, I'm content to drift off to sleep, dreaming of waterfalls, forests, and the simple joys of being surrounded by nature's beauty. It's amazing how a day away from the hustle and bustle can recharge the soul. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, and to sharing them with you all.
Before drifting off to sleep, I thought about all the things I had forgotten to pack. I really could have used a hat today. Note to self: always pack a hat when traveling, especially for outdoor adventures. I guess I'll just have to make do with sunscreen for the rest of the trip. And maybe I'll find a cute hat at one of the local shops here in Chefchaouen. That would make a great souvenir, wouldn't it?