Exploring the Enchanting Blue City of Chefchaouen with Friends

Akchour's Natural Beauty & Culinary Gems

Today's adventure took Lena and me, along with our friends, away from the blue hues of Chefchaouen and into the lush landscapes of Akchour. It was a day filled with scenic hikes, refreshing waterfalls, and, of course, delicious Moroccan food. As a software developer, I always appreciate a good escape into nature, and Akchour definitely delivered.

The drive from Chefchaouen to Akchour was shorter than I expected, only about 45 minutes. The Rif Mountains provided a stunning backdrop, and even Lena, who usually prefers cityscapes, was captivated by the views. The plan was to hike to the Grande Cascade D'akchour, the larger of the two main waterfalls in the area.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Grande Cascade D'akchour, a tranquil natural preserve near Chefchaouen, rich in waterfalls and stunning landscapes.

We started our day with breakfast at Traditional kitchen. I am not usually a breakfast person, but Lena insisted that I try the local bread with honey, and I must admit, it was a great start to the day. The simple, traditional flavors were a welcome change from the usual Berlin fare.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Traditional Kitchen in Chefchaouen – an unforgettable culinary experience awaits.

The hike itself was moderately challenging, taking us through varied terrain. The weather was perfect as it is October, not too hot, with a pleasant temperature, making the hike quite enjoyable. Along the way, we passed several small cafes and stalls offering refreshments. It was tempting to stop at each one, but we decided to press on to the waterfall before indulging in any treats.

The journey to the Grande Cascade was a reminder that the best experiences often lie beyond the beaten path.

The trail to Grande Cascade D'akchour was well-maintained, but sturdy shoes were definitely a must. I was glad I remembered to pack my hiking boots. We passed smaller cascades and natural pools, each more inviting than the last. I even spotted a few Barbary macaques in the trees, which was a highlight for all of us. Lena managed to capture a few good photos, adding to her growing collection of Moroccan wildlife. As a photographer, she's always on the lookout for unique shots, and the macaques certainly fit the bill.

Reaching the Grande Cascade was truly rewarding. The waterfall was magnificent, with water cascading down the rocks into a refreshing pool below. The height of the falls was impressive, and the sound of the water was incredibly soothing. Some of our friends were brave enough to take a dip, but I decided to stick to taking photos and enjoying the view. The water was quite cold, even for me. We spent a good hour at the waterfall, soaking in the natural beauty and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

After the hike, we were all quite hungry, so we headed to Restaurant Dar El Salam for lunch. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the menu featured a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes. I ordered a tagine with chicken and olives, while Lena opted for the couscous. Both dishes were flavorful and satisfying, and we enjoyed sharing them with our friends.


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

In the late afternoon, we returned to Chefchaouen, but not before making a pit stop at Restaurant Bar Chaouen for a drink. It was a great way to unwind after a day of hiking and exploring. The bar had a relaxed vibe, and we enjoyed chatting with the locals while sipping on some refreshing Moroccan mint tea.


Discover the vibrant ambiance and delicious Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Bar Chaouen in the heart of Chefchaouen.

As the evening approached, we decided to have dinner at Restaurant Jbaria. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The terrace offered a beautiful view, and the food was exceptional. I tried the bissara and lentils, which were delicious, and Lena enjoyed the chicken skewers. The service was a bit slow, but the quality of the food more than made up for it.


Discover the authentic taste of Morocco at Restaurant Jbaria in Chefchaouen—where every dish tells a story.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the View Point and the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen. It will be a change of pace from today’s outdoor adventure, but I am looking forward to learning more about the history and culture of this fascinating city. Lena is particularly excited about visiting the B & H Art Shop. She has been wanting to add some local art to our collection, and I am sure she will find something unique there.

Overall, today was a fantastic day trip from Chefchaouen. Akchour is a hidden gem that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting the area. The combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and delicious food makes it a perfect destination for a day of adventure. As I reflect on our experiences today, I'm reminded of why I started this travel blog in the first place: to share these incredible moments with others and inspire them to explore the world.

I am glad that Lena and I took the time to venture beyond the blue walls of Chefchaouen and discover the natural beauty of Akchour. It was a day that I will not soon forget, and I am already looking forward to our next adventure.

The hike to the waterfalls, the delicious Moroccan cuisine, and the company of good friends made for a perfect day. As we head into our final days in Chefchaouen, I am grateful for the experiences we have had and the memories we have made. Morocco has truly captured my heart, and I am eager to see what tomorrow brings.