Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Journey Through Chefchaouen

Summiting Jebel El-Kelaa and Discovering Chefchaouen's Charm

Today was a day of contrasts, from the physical challenge of scaling Jebel El-Kelaa to the serene beauty of Chefchaouen's hidden corners. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the blend of adventure and cultural immersion is simply intoxicating.


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

My Saturday started early, fueled by a strong coffee and a sense of anticipation. I met up with the guys, and we headed to FORNACCIO- Coffe & Kitchen for breakfast [it was either that, or a disaster in the making]. The plan was ambitious: hike to the summit of Jebel El-Kelaa, a mountain overlooking Chefchaouen, and then spend the afternoon exploring the town's famed blue streets.


Discover the delightful flavors of Fornaccio in Chefchaouen, where organic cuisine meets the finest coffee in a vibrant atmosphere.

The trail began with a gentle incline, a deceptive warm-up for what was to come. As we ascended, the path grew steeper, and the views became increasingly rewarding. I made sure to bring my camera, a habit Lena always teases me about, but I knew the panoramic vistas would be worth it. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from Berlin's urban atmosphere. I found myself reflecting on how different this was from my usual Saturday routine back home, editing travel content at my desk. This was a much-needed escape. Sophia would have loved this, although the hike might have been a bit much for her little legs. I made a mental note to find a gentler trail for our next family adventure.

The hike itself was moderately challenging. The trail is well-marked, but there were definitely some steep sections that tested our endurance. I wouldn't recommend it for anyone with heart conditions or back problems, but for seasoned and casual hikers, it’s manageable. We took our time, stopping frequently to catch our breath and admire the scenery. The higher we climbed, the more the landscape opened up before us. The city of Chefchaouen, a sea of blue and white, spread out below, nestled in the Rif Mountains.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

Reaching the summit of Jebel El-Kelaa was an incredible feeling. The 360-degree views were simply breathtaking. We could see for miles in every direction, the rolling hills and valleys stretching out to the horizon. The guys and I spent a good half-hour at the top, taking photos and soaking in the moment. It was a reminder of the simple joys in life: good company, stunning scenery, and the satisfaction of physical exertion. I felt a sense of accomplishment, a feeling that's hard to come by in the daily grind.

The descent was a different beast altogether. While easier on the lungs, it was tougher on the knees. We took a different path down, offering fresh perspectives of the region. Along the way, we passed local vegetation and even encountered a few friendly locals. It was a great opportunity to experience the peacefulness of the mountains and connect with the local culture. We made it back to Chefchaouen in the early afternoon, tired but exhilarated.

Lunch was at Bab Souk, a popular spot known for its Moroccan classics. I opted for a tagine, savoring the rich flavors and spices. The food was delicious, and the rooftop terrace offered stunning views of the city. It was the perfect way to refuel after our hike.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Bab Souk in Chefchaouen – where every dish is a journey into local flavors and culture.

With our bellies full, we dived into the heart of Chefchaouen's medina. The blue-washed streets were even more enchanting up close. Every corner was a photo opportunity, and I couldn't resist snapping away. The town was bustling with activity, locals and tourists alike going about their day. We wandered through the narrow alleyways, discovering hidden courtyards and artisan shops. It was like stepping back in time, a world away from the modern cityscapes I'm used to.

Our first stop was Boutique EL-ASRI, a shop located on Callejon El Asri. This picturesque alleyway is known as one of the most beautiful streets in the world, and it's easy to see why. The walls are painted in various shades of blue, adorned with colorful flower pots and traditional decorations. It's a photographer's dream, and I spent a good amount of time capturing its unique charm. The shop itself was filled with local handicrafts, from carpets to pottery to jewelry. I picked up a few souvenirs for Lena and Sophia, hoping to bring a piece of Chefchaouen back home with me.


Explore the vibrant world of men's fashion at Boutique EL-ASRI in Chefchaouen, where style meets Moroccan culture.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Ben jamaê coffey, a local coffee shop. We relaxed with mint tea, soaking in the atmosphere and watching the world go by. It was a perfect moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the medina. I thought about Lena and Sophia, wishing they were here to share this experience with me. I knew they would have loved the vibrant colors and the exotic atmosphere.


Experience the rich flavors of Moroccan grilling at Ben Jamaê Coffey in the enchanting blue town of Chefchaouen.

Dinner was at Restaurant Bar Chaouen, a local favorite. We sat outside, enjoying the cool evening air and the lively ambiance. The food was delicious, a mix of traditional Moroccan dishes and international cuisine. We shared stories and laughter, reminiscing about the day's adventures. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


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 can't help but feel grateful for this experience. Chefchaouen has a way of captivating you, of drawing you in with its beauty and charm. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Park Sidi Abdelhamid and Place El Haouta [the main square] before finding some more hidden gems in the shops and bars around the blue city. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today.

Reflecting on the day, I realize that travel is more than just ticking off destinations on a list. It's about immersing yourself in new cultures, challenging yourself physically and mentally, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. It's about connecting with people, both locals and fellow travelers, and sharing experiences that broaden your perspective and deepen your understanding of the world. And sometimes, it's simply about finding a moment of peace and tranquility amidst the chaos of everyday life. Chefchaouen has given me all of that and more, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have experienced its magic.