Solo Adventures in the Blue Pearl of Morocco: Chefchaouen

Heart of the Blue Pearl

Today was all about soaking in the very essence of Chefchaouen, a day dedicated to exploring its central gathering place, capturing its iconic views, and, of course, finding that perfect memento to bring a piece of this magical blue city back home to Bristol. It’s hard to believe that tomorrow is my last day here. I’m already feeling a pang of sadness, but I’m determined to make the most of every last moment.


The day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Lalla Messaouda. The aroma of freshly baked bread and mint tea filled the air, a familiar and comforting start to the day here in Morocco. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast of bread, olives, and a fried egg, accompanied by the ubiquitous mint tea. It's amazing how such simple ingredients can create such a satisfying meal. I was so impressed with the great service and friendly staff. It put me in a great mood for the day ahead.


Fuelled up, I made my way to Plaza Uta el Hamman, the bustling heart of Chefchaouen. The square was already alive with activity – locals chatting, tourists snapping photos, and the gentle strumming of a Gnaoua musician filling the air. The soft February sun cast a warm glow on the blue-washed buildings surrounding the plaza, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. The weather was mild, with a high of 66°F, making it perfect for exploring without the need for heavy layers.


Experience the vibrant heart of Chefchaouen at Plaza Uta el Hamman, where culture, art, and breathtaking views come together in Morocco's stunning blue city.

I spent a good hour simply sitting in one of the cafes lining the square, sipping a *café au lait* and watching the world go by. It was fascinating to observe the interactions between locals and tourists, the ebb and flow of daily life in this unique town. I thought about David and Thandi back home, wondering what they were up to. Thandi would absolutely love the vibrant colours of this place, and I made a mental note to find her a special souvenir.


Exploring the plaza, I couldn't help but be drawn to the Kasbah, the historic fortress that stands proudly on one side of the square. I decided to venture inside, eager to learn more about the history of Chefchaouen. The Kasbah is a beautifully restored building with a peaceful courtyard garden. I climbed to the top of one of the towers, where I was rewarded with panoramic views of the plaza and the surrounding medina. It was a great vantage point to appreciate the intricate details of the blue-washed buildings and the surrounding Rif Mountains.

Wandering through Chefchaouen is like stepping into a dream, where every corner reveals a new shade of blue and a new story to uncover.

After the Kasbah, I decided to take a stroll through the medina, the maze-like old town of Chefchaouen. I got intentionally lost in the labyrinthine alleyways, allowing myself to be guided by the sights, sounds, and smells of the city. Every corner revealed a new photo opportunity – a vibrant blue doorway, a cascading bougainvillea, or a group of children playing in the street. I felt so relaxed and safe, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Bristol.


For lunch, I stopped at Assaada, a restaurant recommended for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. I opted for the lemon and olive chicken tagine, a dish that has become a firm favourite during my time here. The tagine was cooked to perfection, the chicken tender and flavourful, and the sauce rich and aromatic. The owner and his son Yahyah were incredibly welcoming, making me feel right at home. I enjoyed a refreshing fresh orange juice. The rooftop dining area offered stunning views of the medina, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Assaada in Chefchaouen - a must-visit dining destination for travelers seeking local flavors.

With my belly full and my spirits high, I set off in search of the City View Point, eager to capture Chefchaouen from a different perspective. The walk to the viewpoint was a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views were well worth the effort. From there, I could see the entire town spread out before me, a sea of blue nestled amidst the green Rif Mountains. The late afternoon light cast long shadows across the landscape, creating a magical and unforgettable scene. I took dozens of photos, trying to capture the beauty of the moment, knowing that no image could truly do it justice.


Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Chefchaouen's blue paradise at City View Point, a must-visit attraction in Morocco.

As the sun began to set, I made my way back down into the medina, ready for some serious souvenir shopping. I had heard good things about Bukhara & Silk, a shop known for its unique textiles and handicrafts. The shop was a treasure trove of beautiful items – colourful carpets, intricate ceramics, and delicate jewellery. I spent a long time browsing, carefully selecting a few special gifts for my loved ones back home. I decided to buy Thandi a beautiful hand-woven doll, its vibrant colours mirroring the shades of Chefchaouen. For David, I chose a leather wallet, its simple design reflecting his understated style.


Explore Bukhara & Silk, your one-stop boutique for unique Moroccan gifts, clothing, and handcrafted treasures in the heart of Chefchaouen.

Shopping in Chefchaouen is an experience in itself. The shopkeepers are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried. Haggling is expected, but it's all part of the fun. I enjoyed chatting with the shopkeepers, learning about their crafts and their lives. It's these interactions that make travel so rewarding, the opportunity to connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds.


For dinner, I decided to try RESTAURANT CASA ANDALUZ, drawn in by its promise of Mediterranean and Moroccan cuisine and its pleasant atmosphere. I ordered the chicken couscous, a classic Moroccan dish, and a pot of mint tea. The couscous was delicious, the chicken tender and flavourful, and the vegetables perfectly cooked. The mint tea was the perfect accompaniment, its sweet and refreshing taste cleansing my palate after the rich meal.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Casa Andaluz in Chefchaouen - where flavor meets breathtaking views.

The day ended with a leisurely stroll through the medina, now bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. The atmosphere was magical, the air filled with the sounds of laughter and music. I felt a sense of contentment and gratitude, grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Chefchaouen.


As I walked back to my guesthouse, I reflected on the day's adventures. I had explored the heart of Chefchaouen, captured its iconic views, and found the perfect souvenirs to bring back home. Tomorrow is my last day here, and I plan to make the most of it. I'm thinking of hiking in Parc National de Talassemtane and maybe even attempting to reach the Jebel El-Kelaa Summit. It’s going to be an early start, but I want to soak up every last bit of this beautiful country before I head back to Bristol. I might even check out Restaurant Bar Chaouen for a final taste of Moroccan nightlife.


Back in my room, I started packing, carefully wrapping my souvenirs to ensure they survived the journey home. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of blue streets, vibrant colours, and the warm smiles of the people of Chefchaouen. What a day! What a trip!