A Blue-Hued Adventure in Chefchaouen

A Blue Dream Come True

Chefchaouen, a city painted in a thousand shades of blue, has always been a dream destination for me. Today, that dream finally materialized as Daniel and I stepped into this enchanting Moroccan haven. The air was warm, carrying the scent of spices and the promise of adventure. It's hard to believe that just this morning, we were navigating the bustle of London, and now, here we are, ready to explore a world that feels a million miles away.

Our journey began with a flight from London to Tangier, followed by a scenic drive to Chefchaouen. As we approached the city, the first glimpse of the blue-washed buildings against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains took my breath away. It was even more magical than I had imagined. Arriving at Hotel Casa Miguel, nestled in the heart of Chefchaouen, was like stepping into a cozy, welcoming embrace. The hotel’s traditional Moroccan décor and central location made it the perfect base for our adventures.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel Casa Miguel, your perfect base in the heart of Chefchaouen, complete with wellness services and local cuisine.

After settling in, our first stop was the Chefchaouen Medina. The narrow, winding streets were a labyrinth of blue, with every corner offering a new photo opportunity. I was in photographer's heaven! The soft September light cast a magical glow on the walls, enhancing the vibrant hues. We wandered aimlessly, soaking in the atmosphere, and occasionally stopping to admire the intricate details of the doorways and windows.

Discover the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen Medina, a historical gem in Morocco offering culture, crafts, and breathtaking views of the Rif Mountains.

In Chefchaouen, every corner turned is a step into a living painting, where the blues whisper stories of serenity and history.

The Medina was bustling with activity. Locals went about their daily lives, children played in the squares, and artisans displayed their crafts. Daniel, ever the curious one, struck up a conversation with a leather craftsman, learning about the traditional techniques used to create the beautiful goods on display. I, on the other hand, was captivated by the vibrant textiles, bargaining for a beautiful scarf that I knew would become a treasured souvenir.

For breakfast, we stopped at Café Sindibad. Hidden behind the Kasbah, overlooking the Outa al Hamam square, this restaurant offered one of the most beautiful views of Chefchaouen. We sat on the terrace, sipping traditional mint tea and savoring delicious Moroccan pastries. The mint tea, sweet and refreshing, was the perfect start to our day. The cafe’s atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, with friendly staff who made us feel right at home.

Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Sindibad in Chefchaouen – a cozy haven for food lovers seeking local delicacies.

Next on our list was the Kasbah. This historic fortress, located in the heart of the Medina, offered a glimpse into Chefchaouen's rich past. Built in the 15th century, the Kasbah once served as a defense against Portuguese invasions. Today, it houses an ethnographic museum, showcasing traditional Moroccan artifacts, musical instruments, and weaponry. We climbed to the top of the Kasbah tower, where we were rewarded with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Rif Mountains. The vista was simply breathtaking, a sea of blue stretching as far as the eye could see.

Discover the captivating Kasbah of Chefchaouen, a historical landmark that showcases Morocco's rich heritage and stunning architectural beauty.

Exploring the Kasbah, we learned about the history of Chefchaouen and the cultural influences that have shaped it over the centuries. The museum provided valuable context to our wanderings, deepening our appreciation for the city's unique heritage. Daniel was particularly fascinated by the collection of antique weapons, while I was drawn to the intricate embroidery and traditional costumes on display.

After immersing ourselves in history, we made our way to Plaza Uta el Hamman. This bustling square is the heart of Chefchaouen, lined with cafes and restaurants. We found a spot at Restaurant Bab Ssour, a charming eatery known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. For lunch, I ordered a tagine, a slow-cooked stew with vegetables and spices, while Daniel opted for couscous, a staple of Moroccan cuisine. The food was flavorful and satisfying, a true taste of Morocco.

Experience the vibrant culture and stunning beauty of Chefchaouen at Plaza Uta el Hamman, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Bab Ssour in Chefchaouen - where every bite tells a story.

Restaurant Bab Ssour was the perfect place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of Plaza Uta el Hamman. We watched as locals and tourists mingled, enjoying the shade of the large trees in the square. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter, conversation, and the gentle strumming of a guitar. It was a scene that perfectly captured the essence of Chefchaouen – laid-back, welcoming, and full of life.

In the afternoon, I couldn’t resist the allure of Blue. concept store. This charming shop was a treasure trove of unique Moroccan gifts and artisanal crafts. I spent hours browsing the shelves, admiring the intricate pottery, handwoven carpets, and colorful ceramics. I finally settled on a beautiful set of hand-painted bowls, which I knew would be a perfect reminder of our time in Chefchaouen.

Explore the vibrant culture of Chefchaouen at Blue. Concept Store, your go-to destination for unique Moroccan gifts and artisanal treasures.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves back in the Medina, wandering through the streets as the sun began to set. The blue walls took on a different hue, bathed in the warm, golden light. We stopped to admire the view from a small bridge, watching as the sky transformed into a canvas of orange, pink, and purple.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Morisco. We sat on the rooftop terrace, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the stunning views of the city. The restaurant was alive with music and conversation. We shared a delicious meal of grilled meats and fresh salads, savoring every bite as we reflected on our first day in Chefchaouen.

Discover flavorful Moroccan and Italian dishes at Restaurant Morisco in Chefchaouen - where culinary traditions meet affordability.

As we walked back to our hotel, hand in hand, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Chefchaouen had exceeded all my expectations, captivating me with its beauty, charm, and rich culture. This city is truly a photographer's dream, and I'm so happy that Daniel and I are experiencing this together.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Ras El Ma, the City View Point, and the Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen. I am particularly looking forward to visiting Ras El Ma, where I can capture the natural beauty of the waterfalls and lush greenery. I’m also excited to see the Grand Mosque and learn more about the local religious practices. And perhaps, we'll find a cozy spot at Bar Oum Rabie to unwind after a day of exploration. I can't wait to see what adventures await us in this magical blue city!

Back at Hotel Casa Miguel, I took out my journal and started to jot down the day’s experiences, wanting to capture every detail before it faded away. As I write this, I can still feel the warmth of the sun on my skin, smell the spices in the air, and see the blue walls in my mind’s eye. Chefchaouen, you have stolen my heart.