Family Escape to the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen

Finding Paradise at Akchour Waterfalls

Today was a day of escaping the mesmerizing blue of Chefchaouen's medina and diving headfirst into the raw, untamed beauty of Morocco's natural landscapes. We ventured to Akchour Waterfalls, a hidden gem just a short drive from the blue city, and it was an experience that rejuvenated our souls. I was excited to share a different facet of Morocco with Klaus and Sofia, one that traded the calming blues for vibrant greens and the soothing sounds of the city for the exhilarating rush of cascading water.

Our day began, as most do here, with a delightful breakfast at Café & restaurant Meftah. The friendly staff, the beautiful view, and the tasty Moroccan dishes set the perfect tone for our adventure. I opted for a traditional tagine, while Klaus enjoyed a hearty omelet, and Sofia devoured a plate of fresh fruit. With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for Akchour.

The journey to Akchour was an experience in itself. We decided to take a grand taxi from Chefchaouen, which I found near the bus station. The shared taxi ride was only 25 dirhams per person, and the journey took about 30 minutes. As we drove, the landscape transformed from the blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen to the rugged, green terrain of the Rif Mountains. The air grew fresher, and the anticipation of what awaited us at Akchour grew stronger with each passing kilometer.

Upon arriving at Akchour, we were immediately greeted by the sights and sounds of nature in full bloom. The entrance to the park was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to explore the natural wonders that lay within. We decided to hike to the Grand Cascade, also known as the Big Waterfall, a trek that was said to take about 2-3 hours. Sofia, ever the adventurous spirit, was particularly excited.

The trail to the Grand Cascade was nothing short of magical. We walked alongside crystal-clear streams, through lush green forests, and over rocky paths. The sound of the water was a constant companion, growing louder as we approached our destination. Along the way, we passed small shops selling refreshments and local crafts, offering a welcome respite from the hike. I made a mental note to buy a small souvenir on our way back, something to remind us of this beautiful place.

The trail to Akchour Waterfalls is more than just a hike; it's an immersion into the heart of Morocco's natural beauty, a reminder of the simple joys found in nature's embrace.

The hike had some steep parts, but it wasn’t too demanding. Sofia, with her boundless energy, skipped ahead, while Klaus and I took our time, soaking in the scenery. We crossed the flowing river several times, carefully stepping on stones to keep our feet dry. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride in sharing this part of my heritage with my family. It felt like I was showing them a hidden piece of my heart.

After a couple of hours of hiking, we finally reached the Grand Cascade. The sight that greeted us was simply breathtaking. A powerful column of water plunged down a sheer rock face into a crystal-clear pool below. The mist from the waterfall created a refreshing spray, and the air was filled with the sound of rushing water. It was a perfect spot for photos, and we spent a good amount of time capturing the beauty of the moment.

Sofia was eager to take a dip in the pool, but the water was a bit too chilly for a long swim. Instead, we splashed around for a bit and enjoyed the invigorating coolness of the water. I couldn't help but think about the Berber tattoo on my chin, a mark of my ancestry and pride. Standing there, surrounded by the raw beauty of Akchour, I felt a deep connection to my roots and a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with my family.

After spending some time at the Grand Cascade, we began our descent. On our way back, we stopped at one of the small shops and bought a handmade Berber bracelet as a souvenir. We also enjoyed a refreshing glass of orange juice, savoring the sweet and tangy flavor. The hike back was just as enjoyable as the hike up, and we arrived back at the entrance feeling tired but exhilarated.

Before heading back to Chefchaouen, we decided to have lunch at Restaurant Hajji. This restaurant is one of the oldest in Chefchaouen, serving traditional Moroccan food since the 1940s. The restaurant had a cool atmosphere and the staff were very kind. Klaus and Sofia both ordered the tagine, while I chose the couscous. The food was delicious, and we savored every bite, reminiscing about our adventure at Akchour.

With our bellies full and our hearts content, we took another grand taxi back to Chefchaouen. As we drove back, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's experiences. Akchour Waterfalls was more than just a beautiful place; it was a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature and sharing those experiences with loved ones. It was a day that I will cherish for a long time.

Back in Chefchaouen, we strolled through the blue-washed streets, soaking in the unique atmosphere of the town. Before heading back to our hotel, Hotel Dar Mounir, we stopped by Blue. concept store. This delightful gift shop is a treasure trove of unique items that reflect the rich artistry of Morocco. Sofia picked out a small, blue ceramic trinket box, a perfect reminder of our time in Chefchaouen. I found a beautiful, hand-painted bowl that I knew would look perfect in our Bonn home.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Morisco, known for its delicious Moroccan and Italian cuisines. The restaurant is located in the famous Outa el Hammam square, offering a lively atmosphere and comfortable seating. We started with a traditional Moroccan salad, followed by a tagine for Klaus and pizza for Sofia. I opted for the seafood pasta, a delightful fusion of Moroccan and Italian flavors. The food was excellent, and the service was prompt and friendly.

As the day drew to a close, we walked back to Hotel Dar Mounir, our hearts full of joy and gratitude. We talked about the beauty of Akchour, the deliciousness of the Moroccan cuisine, and the unique charm of Chefchaouen. It was a day of adventure, discovery, and connection, a day that I will always remember.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Chefchaouen itself, visiting the Grand Mosque and Boulevard Mohamed V. I’m also hoping to find some time to relax at Cafe Clock. But for tonight, I’m content to simply savor the memories of our Akchour adventure, a day of chasing waterfalls and discovering paradise in the heart of Morocco.