Family Adventure in the Blue City of Chefchaouen

Akchour's Natural Wonders

Today was nothing short of magical as we ventured into the heart of Morocco's natural beauty. Leaving the blue hues of Chefchaouen behind, we embarked on a day trip to Akchour Waterfalls and the surrounding Talassemtane National Park. I’m so excited to share every detail of our adventure, from the invigorating hikes to the delicious Moroccan meals that fueled our explorations.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Chez Hicham. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with goat cheese, eggs, and olive oil. Liesel, of course, chose the pancakes, and Hans enjoyed a tagine. Fueled and ready, we set off for Akchour, a small village about 45 minutes outside of Chefchaouen. The drive itself was stunning, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the Rif Mountains. I couldn’t resist snapping photos at every turn, trying to capture the beauty of the landscape. It's truly breathtaking!

Arriving in Akchour, we were immediately greeted by the fresh mountain air and the sound of rushing water. The village is the gateway to Talassemtane National Park, a sprawling natural reserve known for its diverse landscapes and hiking trails. We decided to tackle the Akchour Waterfalls trail, a popular route that promised cascading waterfalls and emerald pools.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Waterfalls of Akchour, a natural wonder in Morocco perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.

The hike started off easily enough, with a well-maintained path that meandered alongside the river. The scenery was incredible, with lush greenery, moss-covered rocks, and small waterfalls appearing around every corner. Liesel was in her element, hopping from stone to stone and pointing out interesting plants and insects. Even Hans, who usually prefers a leisurely stroll, was captivated by the surroundings.

As we continued, the trail became a bit more challenging, with some steep sections and rocky terrain. But the effort was well worth it, as each turn revealed even more stunning views. We passed small areas with chairs where you could rest and buy cold drinks. I made sure to pack plenty of water, remembering our forgotten travel plug adapter and extra memory card.

The beauty of nature lies in its ability to inspire and rejuvenate, reminding us of the simple joys in life.

After about two hours of hiking, we finally reached the Grand Cascade d'Akchour, the main waterfall. The sight was simply breathtaking, with water cascading down from a great height into a turquoise pool below. I couldn't resist taking a dip in the icy water, which was incredibly refreshing after the long hike. Liesel and Hans cheered me on from the sidelines, preferring to stay dry and snap photos of the stunning scenery.

We spent some time relaxing by the waterfall, soaking in the beauty and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. There were small open-air restaurants nearby where you could enjoy a local tagine. We found a cozy spot and ordered a delicious tagine, savoring the flavors of Morocco amidst the stunning natural surroundings. The tagine was cooked to perfection, with tender meat, fragrant spices, and a medley of vegetables. It was the perfect way to refuel after our hike.

After lunch, we decided to explore more of Talassemtane National Park. We opted for a shorter hike to God's Bridge, a natural stone arch that towers above the Farda River. The trail was a bit more challenging than the one to the waterfall, but the views were even more spectacular. We hiked through forests of Moroccan fir, marveling at the unique flora and fauna.


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

Reaching God's Bridge, we were awestruck by the sheer size and beauty of the natural arch. The bridge spans a deep canyon, with the river flowing far below. I felt a sense of wonder and gratitude, marveling at the power of nature to create such incredible formations. Liesel was fascinated by the bridge, asking endless questions about how it was formed and how long it had been there.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Akchour, feeling tired but incredibly fulfilled. The day had been a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. I was grateful for the opportunity to experience the wonders of Talassemtane National Park with my family, creating memories that we would cherish for a lifetime.

Back in Chefchaouen, we decided to have dinner at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli. The restaurant is known for its traditional Moroccan dishes and stunning views of the Rif Mountains. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the cool evening air and the twinkling lights of the city below.


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

For dinner, I ordered the couscous, while Hans opted for the grilled meats. Liesel, ever the adventurous eater, tried the tagine again and loved it. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect. As we ate, we listened to the gentle sounds of local music, immersing ourselves in the Moroccan heritage.

After dinner, we strolled through the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen, soaking in the magical atmosphere. The city was alive with activity, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the cool evening air. I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment, knowing that we had made the most of our day and experienced the best that Chefchaouen and Talassemtane National Park had to offer.

As I reflect on our adventures today, I am reminded of the importance of embracing new experiences and connecting with nature. The beauty of Akchour Waterfalls and Talassemtane National Park has left an indelible mark on my soul, inspiring me to continue exploring and seeking out the hidden gems of the world.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Chefchaouen itself, visiting the City View Point and the Kasbah. Liesel is especially excited about shopping for souvenirs at CHAOUEN GIFTS. I’m looking forward to capturing more of the city’s charm and sharing it with you all.

Until then, I bid you goodnight from the enchanting blue city of Chefchaouen. May your dreams be filled with waterfalls, mountain views, and the vibrant colors of Morocco.

This trip is truly a dream come true, and I'm so glad to be sharing it with Hans and Liesel. It's moments like these that remind me why I love traveling and exploring new cultures. And to think, just a few years ago, I was simply translating documents in Bamberg! Life truly has a funny way of surprising you.

And now, off to bed. Tomorrow is another day of adventure!