Family Escape to the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen

A Breath of Fresh Air

Today marked a delightful escape into the heart of nature as we ventured into Parc National de Talassemtane. After several days immersed in the blue hues and bustling markets of Chefchaouen, a day surrounded by the Rif Mountains' lush landscapes was exactly what my family and I needed. The change of scenery was refreshing, and I was eager to share the natural beauty of my homeland with Klaus and Sofia.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café & restaurant Meftah. The friendly staff welcomed us warmly, and we settled into a cozy corner with a beautiful view. I ordered a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen (pancakes) and mint tea, while Klaus opted for something closer to what he knows from Germany, and Sofia, of course, wanted crepes. The food was delicious, and the mint tea was the perfect start to our adventurous day. I always feel a sense of pride sharing these simple pleasures with my family, bridging the gap between my past and our present.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café & Restaurant Meftah in Chefchaouen's enchanting blue city.

With our bellies full, we set off towards Parc National de Talassemtane. The drive itself was scenic, with glimpses of the Rif Mountains in the distance. As we approached the park, the landscape transformed, and we were greeted by the sight of towering cedar and pine trees. Sofia was particularly excited, her eyes wide with wonder at the unfamiliar flora and fauna. I made sure to pack our essentials, though I was kicking myself for forgetting the raincoat and a portable phone charger. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

We decided to embark on a leisurely hike, choosing one of the easier trails that would be suitable for Sofia. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the town. As we walked, I pointed out different plants and trees, sharing stories from my childhood in Azrou, where nature was our playground. Klaus, ever the curious one, peppered me with questions about the local ecosystem, while Sofia kept a keen eye out for any wildlife.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, surrounded by nature's untouched beauty.

The park was teeming with life. We spotted several species of birds, their songs filling the air, and even caught a glimpse of some Barbary macaques swinging through the trees. Sofia was thrilled, and I couldn't help but smile at her infectious enthusiasm. It reminded me of my own childhood adventures in the forests near Azrou. I made sure to caution them about scorpions and snakes, remembering the tales my grandmother used to tell me.

After a couple of hours of hiking, we worked up quite an appetite. Luckily, we had planned to have lunch at Restaurant Chourafa. The restaurant is renowned for its seafood, and I was eager for Klaus and Sofia to experience the flavors of Moroccan cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, bursting with fresh herbs and spices, followed by a traditional seafood tagine. The tagine was a symphony of flavors, the tender fish and shrimp perfectly complemented by the rich tomato-based sauce. Sofia, who can be a bit picky, surprised us by devouring her portion with gusto. Klaus, ever the adventurous eater, tried everything and declared it one of the best meals he'd had in Morocco.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Chourafa in Chefchaouen - a culinary haven amidst stunning blue-hued streets.

With our stomachs satisfied, we decided to take a break before continuing our exploration. We found a quiet spot by a small stream, where we relaxed and enjoyed the tranquil surroundings. I closed my eyes, listening to the gentle murmur of the water and the rustling of the leaves. It was a moment of pure bliss, a reminder of the simple joys in life.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back towards Chefchaouen, but not before making a pit stop at Sunset at sunset. This bar is known for its stunning views, and I wanted to share the experience with my family. We arrived just in time to witness the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in a riot of colors. Sofia was mesmerized, snapping photos with her phone, while Klaus and I simply stood in awe, taking in the breathtaking spectacle. I ordered some fresh orange juice, a local favorite, and we toasted to a wonderful day spent together.


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

For dinner, we chose BILMOS, a restaurant known for its authentic Moroccan dishes and cozy ambiance. We sat on the rooftop terrace, enjoying stunning views of the medina as the lights twinkled below. I opted for the lamb tagine, while Klaus tried the couscous, and Sofia, predictably, went for pizza. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Bilmos in Chefchaouen's vibrant heart - a culinary journey you won't forget!

As we walked back to Hotel Dar Mounir, I reflected on the day's adventures. Talassemtane National Park had provided a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of Chefchaouen, allowing us to reconnect with nature and each other. Sharing the beauty of my homeland with my family is something I will always cherish. It's experiences like these that make our travels so meaningful, creating lasting memories that we will carry with us long after we've returned to Bonn.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Hero Eagle and Kasbah, continuing our exploration of Chefchaouen's historical sites. I'm excited to delve deeper into the town's rich history and share more of its cultural treasures with Klaus and Sofia. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the scent of pine trees, the taste of tagine, and the warmth of the setting sun.

I am so grateful for these moments with my family, especially knowing how important it is for Sofia to connect with her Moroccan heritage. Each day here brings us closer, weaving together the threads of our diverse backgrounds into a beautiful tapestry. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but smile, knowing that tomorrow will bring new adventures and new memories to cherish.