Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Week in Chefchaouen

Saturday Serenity in the Blue Pearl

Today was all about soaking in the quieter side of Chefchaouen, finding those little pockets of peace and beauty that sometimes get overlooked in the hustle of travel. After several days of exploring the bustling markets and popular viewpoints, I was ready for a change of pace, and Chefchaouen definitely delivered. It's amazing how a city known for its vibrant colors can also offer such serene and calming experiences.

Our day began, as many have here, with a delightful breakfast at Restaurant Ali Baba. I had read some mixed reviews, but Souleymane, one of the servers, greeted us so warmly that we decided to give it a try. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast: fresh bread, olives, and mint tea. The mint tea, as always, was the perfect start to the day. It's funny, back in Berlin, I rarely drink tea, but here, it's become a daily ritual. Maybe it's the atmosphere, or maybe it's just that the mint tastes fresher here. I even considered buying some to take back to Berlin, but Hans would probably tease me endlessly. He's more of a coffee guy, through and through. After breakfast, we set out to explore a different side of Chefchaouen.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Ali Baba in Chefchaouen's enchanting blue streets.

Our first stop was Park Sidi Abdelhamid. Tucked away from the Medina, it was a welcome escape from the crowds. The park was so peaceful, filled with lush greenery and vibrant flora. I found a shaded bench and spent some time writing in my travel journal, reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had so far. It was the perfect spot to gather my thoughts and recharge before diving back into the bustling streets. I even spotted a few locals enjoying picnics, which added to the park's serene atmosphere. It reminded me of the parks back in Bakersfield, where I used to go to escape the California heat. Funny how even in a completely different country, some things still feel familiar.

Discover the serene beauty of Park Sidi Abdelhamid in Chefchaouen, a tranquil escape filled with lush landscapes and vibrant flora.

Next on our list was the famous Sidi Bouchouka photo spot. Of course, I had seen countless photos of it online, but experiencing it in person was something else entirely. The vibrant blue walls, colorful mosaic tiles, and flower pots created a picture-perfect scene. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos myself, trying to capture the essence of this magical place. I even tried shooting from a lower angle, as suggested by one of the travel blogs I had read, to capture more of the blue walls in the background. It’s amazing how every corner in Chefchaouen seems to be designed for Instagram, but this spot was especially enchanting.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sidi Bouchouka, a must-visit photo spot in Chefchaouen, renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

Chefchaouen isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's a balm for the soul.

After our photo session, it was time for lunch. We headed to Restaurant Morisco, known for its high terrace overlooking the square. The climb up the stairs was worth it for the views alone. I decided to try the tagine, a Moroccan staple, while Hans went for one of their pizzas. The tagine was flavorful and comforting, filled with tender meat and perfectly cooked vegetables. Hans enjoyed his pizza, remarking that it was surprisingly good for a Moroccan restaurant. The service was a bit slow, but we didn't mind, as we were content to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the panoramic views. Plus, it gave me a chance to people-watch. I saw a group of tourists haggling with a local vendor, a family enjoying a leisurely meal, and a couple taking selfies against the backdrop of the blue city. It was a perfect snapshot of life in Chefchaouen.

Discover flavorful Moroccan and Italian dishes at Restaurant Morisco in Chefchaouen - where culinary traditions meet affordability.

With our bellies full, we decided to do some souvenir shopping. We stumbled upon Hibart Souvenirs Shop, a charming store filled with handmade Moroccan crafts. The shop was a treasure trove of unique items, from intricately designed ceramics to colorful textiles. The owners were incredibly friendly and passionate about sharing their love for Moroccan craftsmanship. I ended up buying a beautiful ceramic bowl and a few small trinkets for friends back home. I was tempted to buy more, but I had to remind myself that I still had a few days of travel ahead of me, and my suitcase was already getting full. I remember a similar shop I found in Berlin, near Hackescher Markt, that sold handcrafted goods from around the world. It's always the small, local shops that have the most character.

Discover unique Moroccan souvenirs at Hibart Souvenirs Shop, a charming destination in Chefchaouen for travelers seeking authentic local crafts.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restaurant Terrasse Djebli for dinner. We had heard great things about their grilled meats and stunning views, and we weren't disappointed. We arrived just in time to catch the sunset, which painted the sky in shades of pink and orange. The Rif Mountains in the background added to the magical scene. I ordered the grilled chicken, which was marinated to perfection and served with flavorful dips and bread. Hans opted for the tagine, and we shared a pot of mint tea. The combination of delicious food, breathtaking views, and warm ambiance made for a perfect ending to a perfect day.

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

Tomorrow is our last day in Chefchaouen, and we plan to make the most of it. We're going to hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit for one last panoramic view of the city, and then visit the Hero Eagle. I’m also hoping to squeeze in a visit to Bar Oum Rabie for a final taste of Moroccan nightlife. It's hard to believe our week here is almost over. Chefchaouen has captured my heart with its blue streets, friendly people, and serene atmosphere. I know I'll be back someday, but for now, I'll cherish the memories and the photos I've captured. And maybe, just maybe, I'll convince Hans to try mint tea more often back in Berlin.