Exploring the Enchanting Blue City of Chefchaouen with Friends

Chasing Waterfalls in the Rif Mountains

Today was a much-needed escape from the captivating, yet sometimes overwhelming, blue maze of Chefchaouen. Lena and I, along with our friends, embarked on a day trip to Akchour Waterfalls and the Talassemtane National Park. After a few days immersed in the town, trading computer screens for nature trails felt like the perfect way to recharge.

We started our day with breakfast at Restaurant Al Wiam. It was a hearty Moroccan breakfast. Fuelled up, we were ready for our adventure. We managed to find a *Grand* taxi outside the medina. The ride to Akchour was an experience in itself, winding through the Rif Mountains. The landscape shifted dramatically from the blue-washed buildings to lush greenery, a stark and welcome contrast.

The air was crisp and clean as we arrived at the trailhead. October is a fantastic time to visit, as the summer heat has subsided, leaving a comfortable climate for hiking. The trail to the *Grande Cascade* (Big Waterfall) was well-maintained but uneven, so I was glad I'd packed my comfortable walking shoes. I did forget my sunglasses back at the riad though. The hike was invigorating, with the sound of rushing water accompanying us along the way.

The path meandered alongside the river, crossing it several times via cement blocks and small wooden bridges. The scenery was breathtaking – rocks and tree stumps covered in green moss, creating a vibrant, almost jungle-like atmosphere. It was hard to believe this natural paradise was just a short drive from Chefchaouen. I made sure to capture as much of the scenery as I could with my camera, knowing Lena would appreciate the photos for her design work. We passed several small stands selling Tajines and fresh drinks.

After about two hours of hiking, we finally reached the *Grande Cascade*. The sight was truly rewarding – a powerful waterfall cascading down a steep rock face into a crystal-clear pool below. The mist from the falls created a refreshing spray, and we even spotted a few small rainbows. I took some photos, experimenting with long exposure to capture the motion of the water. Lena and our friends were equally mesmerized, and we spent a good while simply enjoying the view.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After soaking in the beauty of the *Grande Cascade*, we decided to explore more of Talassemtane National Park. We hiked a bit further, enjoying the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Although we didn't spot any Barbary macaques, we did see a variety of birds, including some impressive raptors soaring overhead.

For lunch, we stopped at Assaada, a restaurant we had passed on the way to the waterfalls. It was the perfect spot to refuel after our hike. I had a delicious kefta, while Lena opted for a vegetarian tagine. The food was simple but satisfying, and the views from the terrace were stunning. I made a mental note to try and recreate the kefta recipe back in Berlin; it would be a great way to bring a little bit of Morocco back home.

Later in the afternoon, as the sun began to dip lower in the sky, we headed back towards Chefchaouen. The light transformed the landscape, casting long shadows and painting the mountains in warm hues. We took our time, savoring the last moments of our nature escape. It was a refreshing change of pace, reminding us of the importance of balancing city explorations with natural adventures.

Back in Chefchaouen, we decided to try Restaurant Terrasse Djebli for dinner. The restaurant offered stunning views of the Rif Mountains, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. I opted for a traditional Moroccan tagine, while Lena chose a fresh salad. As we ate, we listened to the gentle sounds of local music, immersing ourselves in the Moroccan heritage. We discussed our plans for tomorrow, which include visiting Hero Eagle and Bab El Ain.

To cap off the evening, we visited Cafe Clock for a nightcap. The cafe had a vibrant atmosphere, with live music and a mix of locals and tourists. I enjoyed a mint tea, while Lena tried a local pastry. We chatted about our favorite moments from the day, agreeing that the hike to Akchour Waterfalls was a definite highlight.

As I sit here writing this, I feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about experiencing new things and connecting with nature. The combination of hiking in Talassemtane National Park and enjoying the local cuisine has left me feeling refreshed and inspired. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures in Chefchaouen, but I know that the memories of today's escape to Akchour Waterfalls will stay with me long after we leave this enchanting blue city.


Explore the breathtaking Waterfalls of Akchour in Morocco, a stunning natural paradise with scenic hikes and refreshing waters that captivate every visitor.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Parc National de Talassemtane, a hidden gem near Chefchaouen in Morocco.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Al Wiam in Chefchaouen – a true culinary delight amidst stunning scenery.


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


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst stunning views at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli in Chefchaouen.


Experience the essence of Moroccan cuisine at Cafe Clock, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Chefchaouen.