Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen: A Cultural Journey with My Husband

A Day Among Giants
Today, Jean-Pierre and I ventured beyond the enchanting blue alleys of Chefchaouen and into the heart of its natural surroundings. We traded the calming blue hues for the vibrant greens and rugged terrains of the Rif Mountains, seeking a different kind of immersion. It was a day of physical challenges, breathtaking vistas, and quiet moments of reflection amidst nature's grandeur.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cremeri Elmaataoui. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, providing the perfect fuel for our adventurous day ahead. I savored every bite, knowing we'd need the energy for the demanding hikes that awaited us. I made sure Jean-Pierre had a hearty serving as well, knowing he would need as much energy as he could muster. I chuckled inwardly, recalling our previous hiking escapades where I often had to encourage him up the steeper inclines.


Discover sweet delights at Cremeri Elmaataoui in Chefchaouen, where authentic Moroccan pastries meet stunning views.

Fueled and ready, we set off towards Parc National de Talassemtane. The drive itself was a scenic prelude to the day’s main event, with winding roads offering glimpses of the vast landscapes that define this region. Talassemtane National Park, established in 2004, spans nearly 59,000 hectares and protects Morocco’s endangered fir forests. As we approached the park, the air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, a welcome change from the bustling city.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parc National de Talassemtane in Morocco's stunning Rif Mountains.

Our first hike was a 45 minute trek to the Cascades. The trail wound through the forest, the sunlight dappling through the canopy creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow. The park is home to over 50 species of mammals and more than 100 species of birds. Although we didn't spot any monkeys or otters, the sounds of birds filled the air, their melodies adding to the tranquility of the surroundings. The gentle murmur of the water grew louder as we approached the small waterfall. It wasn't the most majestic waterfall I've ever seen, but it was a peaceful spot to pause and appreciate nature's simple beauty.

We took a short break, sipping on freshly squeezed orange juice from a local vendor. The sweet, tangy juice was incredibly refreshing, and we savored every drop while taking in the view. Jean-Pierre, ever the architect, was fascinated by the way the water had carved its path through the rocks over centuries, shaping the landscape with its persistent flow. He mused about the forces of nature and their impact on the world around us, a topic that always seemed to captivate him.

After our refreshing break, we continued our journey, hiking toward the high waterfall. The next leg of the journey was more challenging, taking us about 90 minutes. The trail became steeper and rockier, requiring a bit more effort and focus. I found myself relying on my hiking boots more than once, grateful for the good grip they provided. Jean-Pierre, though a bit winded, pressed on with determination. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in his resilience. This part of the park is known for its unique biodiversity, with various plant and animal species calling it home.

Reaching the high waterfall was a rewarding experience. The cascade of water plunging down the rocks was a breathtaking sight, and the cool mist in the air was incredibly refreshing. We found a spot to sit and simply take in the view, letting the sounds of the water wash over us. We rested there for about an hour, enjoying a tagine near the waterfall. After our lunch, we began our descent, opting for a swim in a natural swimming pool along the way. The water was cold, but invigorating, and we laughed as we splashed each other, feeling like children again. Fortunately, we did not see any monkeys on our return, but it would have been amazing to see them.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are not about reaching a destination, but about the journey itself and the moments of connection we find along the way.

Back in Chefchaouen, we prepared for our next adventure: Jebel El-Kelaa Summit. We grabbed a quick bite at our hotel before heading out. The hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit stands at 1,616 meters. The initial ascent was quite steep, a breathless climb out of the medina. I could feel the burn in my thighs as we made our way up the steps, but the views of the blue city below kept me motivated. Jean-Pierre, though not as enthusiastic about the steep climb, gamely followed, his determination fueled by the promise of panoramic views from the summit. He paused frequently to catch his breath, but I could see the satisfaction in his eyes as we gained altitude.


Explore the breathtaking heights of Jebel El-Kelaa Summit in Chefchaouen, a hiker's paradise surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

As we left the city behind, the landscape transformed into a green pine-clad forest. The trail wound its way through the trees, offering shade and respite from the sun. We followed the path, enjoying the tranquility of the forest and the sounds of nature all around us. The air was fresh and clean, a welcome change from the city. The paths are well-marked, making it manageable for most hikers. I was grateful for this, as I am not the best at navigating unmarked trails.

The final ascent to the summit was the most challenging part of the hike. The path became steeper and rockier, requiring us to scramble over boulders and navigate uneven terrain. Proper hiking boots were essential for comfort and safety. I was glad I had remembered to pack mine, though I silently chided myself for forgetting the reusable water bottle.

Reaching the summit was an exhilarating experience. The panoramic views of Chefchaouen and the Rif Mountains were simply breathtaking. We could see the blue city spread out below us, a sea of color nestled in the valley. The surrounding mountains rose majestically in the distance, their peaks shrouded in mist. We spent some time at the summit, taking photos and simply soaking in the view. It was a moment of pure joy and accomplishment, a feeling of having conquered something challenging and being rewarded with unparalleled beauty.

The descent was a different experience, offering fresh perspectives of the region. We followed an alternate path back down, enjoying the local vegetation and the peacefulness of the mountains. We encountered friendly locals along the way, exchanging smiles and greetings. It was a reminder of the warmth and hospitality of the Moroccan people. As we made our way down, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The views were simply magical, and I felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience this beautiful place.

For dinner, we decided on Chez Foad. It was a cozy and inviting space, perfect for unwinding after a long day of hiking. I wanted to savor authentic Moroccan cuisine, and Chez Foad certainly delivered. The tagine was rich and flavorful, and the couscous was light and fluffy. We shared stories and laughed about our adventures, relishing the simple pleasure of good food and good company.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in Chefchaouen at Chez Foad - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

To cap off the evening, we stopped by Restaurant Bar Chaouen for a nightcap. I enjoyed a glass of local wine while Jean-Pierre opted for a mint tea. We sat and watched the world go by, listening to the sounds of the city and reflecting on our day. Restaurant Bar Chaouen is a versatile venue that combines the elements of a pub and bar. It was the perfect place to end our day, a place to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Chefchaouen.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Morocco at Restaurant Bar Chaouen, where authentic cuisine meets a lively atmosphere in Chefchaouen.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. Today was a day of physical challenges, breathtaking vistas, and quiet moments of reflection. It was a day that reminded me of the importance of stepping outside of our comfort zones and embracing the beauty of the natural world. And tomorrow, we explore more of Chefchaouen, starting with Bab El Ain and Place El Haouta [DayNumber 5]. I can't wait!