Family Escape to the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen

Akchour's Enchanting Waterfalls

Today was a day of natural beauty and refreshing escape as we ventured into the Rif Mountains to explore the famed Akchour waterfalls. Leaving the blue hues of Chefchaouen behind, we immersed ourselves in a world of verdant landscapes and cascading waters, creating memories that my family and I will treasure forever.


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

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Café Marisco Twins. This family-friendly restaurant was bustling with activity, and we managed to snag a table with a view of the lively plaza. Sofia devoured her *crêpe* while Klaus enjoyed a traditional Moroccan breakfast of *msemen* and mint tea. I opted for a simple omelette, fueling up for our upcoming hike. I always cherish these moments together, sharing stories and laughter over a delicious meal. It reminds me so much of breakfasts back in Azrou with my family.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine with a modern twist at Café Restaurant Marisco Twins in Chefchaouen's enchanting atmosphere.

After breakfast, we hopped into a *grand taxi* headed towards Akchour. The 30-minute drive was a scenic journey in itself, with the landscape transforming from the blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen to the rugged beauty of the Rif Mountains. As we ascended, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and earth. Sofia was captivated by the views, her eyes wide with wonder as she pointed out the goats grazing on the hillsides.

Arriving at Akchour, we were immediately greeted by the vibrant energy of the area. Small shops lined the entrance, offering everything from bottled water to handmade crafts. We purchased a few bottles of water, remembering my oversight in not packing enough, and began our trek towards the waterfalls. I made a mental note to add a portable phone charger to our packing list as well, as I realized mine was still back at the hotel.

The trail to the *Cascades d'Akchour* was an adventure in itself. The path wound alongside the river, with small cascades and pools of crystal-clear water beckoning us forward. The landscape was lush and green, a stark contrast to the arid landscapes I remember from other parts of Morocco. Sofia, ever the explorer, was thrilled to hop across the rocks and dip her toes in the cool water. Klaus, with his steady hand, helped her navigate the trickier sections of the trail.

Nature's beauty is a gift that reminds us to appreciate the simple joys of life, from the sound of cascading water to the laughter shared with loved ones.

We opted for the hike to the *Petit Cascade*, knowing that the longer trek to the *Grand Cascade* might be too strenuous for Sofia. The trail was well-maintained but had its share of uneven terrain, requiring us to watch our steps. Along the way, we passed several small stalls selling refreshments, offering a welcome respite from the summer heat. We stopped at one to enjoy some freshly squeezed orange juice, a sweet and tangy treat that invigorated us for the remainder of the hike.

Reaching the *Petit Cascade*, we were rewarded with a stunning view. The waterfall cascaded down a rocky cliff into a small pool below, creating a refreshing mist that cooled our skin. Sofia squealed with delight and immediately waded into the pool, splashing and playing with the other children who had gathered there. Klaus and I sat on a nearby rock, watching her with smiles on our faces. These are the moments that make family travel so special – the shared experiences and the joy of seeing the world through my daughter’s eyes.

After spending a good hour at the waterfall, we began our descent. The hike back was just as enjoyable, with the scenery taking on a different perspective as we walked in the opposite direction. We took our time, savoring the beauty of the surroundings and snapping photos to capture the memories.

By the time we returned to Chefchaouen, we were famished. We decided to have lunch at Restaurant Dar El Salam, a place recommended for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was charming, with traditional decor and a cozy atmosphere. We ordered a tagine and couscous, both of which were bursting with flavor. Sofia, who is usually a picky eater, surprised us by devouring the tagine, declaring it the best meal she had ever had.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Dar El Salam in Chefchaouen's enchanting Blue City.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to spend the afternoon exploring the local shops. We strolled through the medina, admiring the blue-washed buildings and the colorful displays of handicrafts. Sofia was particularly drawn to CHAOUEN GIFTS, a small shop filled with trinkets and souvenirs. She picked out a small, hand-painted bowl for her collection, a tangible reminder of our time in Chefchaouen. I found myself drawn to a beautiful textile art piece, a vibrant display of red flowers that reminded me of the Berber patterns from my childhood home in Azrou.


Explore the vibrant world of Chaouen Gifts in Chefchaouen, where unique Moroccan crafts meet exceptional hospitality.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Hotel Dar Mounir. The hotel, with its comfortable rooms and friendly staff, felt like a home away from home. After freshening up, we headed to Mounir Food for dinner, conveniently located within our hotel. We enjoyed a simple meal of grilled meats and salads, savoring the last moments of our day of adventure. I was pleasantly surprised by the courteous staff and the fast service.


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


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Mounir Food in Chefchaouen - a must-visit for food lovers seeking halal delights.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Parc National de Talassemtane, continuing our immersion into the natural beauty of this region. We’ll start the day with breakfast at Café & restaurant Meftah, followed by lunch at Restaurant Chourafa, and end the day with sunset drinks at Sunset at sunset.

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Akchour's natural beauty, combined with the warmth and charm of Chefchaouen, has created memories that will last a lifetime. As I drift off to sleep, I can still hear the sound of the waterfalls and the laughter of my daughter, a symphony of joy that echoes in my heart.

The high-level event on Urban Climate Finance that Chefchaouen hosted earlier this month highlights the city's commitment to sustainability, and it's inspiring to see such dedication to environmental issues. I hope our travels, in their own small way, contribute to a greater appreciation for the planet and its wonders.

And as I think back on our day, I realize that sometimes the greatest adventures are found not in grand monuments or bustling cities, but in the quiet beauty of nature and the simple joy of shared moments with family.