Family Adventure in the Blue City of Chefchaouen

Chasing the Blues Away in Chefchaouen

Today was all about diving deeper into the heart of Chefchaouen, a city that continues to enchant me with its mesmerizing blue hues and vibrant culture. After five days here, I felt like I was really starting to understand the rhythm of this magical place. I couldn't wait to see what hidden corners and new experiences awaited us today.

Our day started with a delightful breakfast at Restaurant Ali Baba. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea and an assortment of local breads. Liesel, of course, wanted something familiar, so she enjoyed a croissant with jam. Hans, ever the adventurous one, tried a tagine for breakfast! He said it was surprisingly good, a hearty and flavorful way to kick off the day. The atmosphere was cozy, and the staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.


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

After breakfast, we set out to explore the famed Blue Medina with a guided tour. I had pre-booked a tour with Blue Medina Tours, and I'm so glad I did. Our guide, whose name I unfortunately cannot recall, was a local who grew up in the medina and knew all its secrets. He led us through a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, each painted in a different shade of blue. The buildings seemed to glow in the morning light, creating a surreal and breathtaking scene. I snapped countless photos, trying to capture the unique beauty of this place.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant blue hues of Chefchaouen, where culture and beauty blend seamlessly in Morocco's enchanting mountain town.

Our guide shared stories of the city's history, explaining how the blue color came to be and its significance to the local culture. It was fascinating to learn about the traditions and customs of the people who call Chefchaouen home. Liesel was particularly intrigued by the tales of the city's founding and the legends surrounding its blue walls.

Wandering through Chefchaouen is like stepping into a dream, where the world is painted in shades of tranquility and wonder.

One of the highlights of our tour was visiting Bab El Hammar, one of the historic gates of the city. Our guide explained that Bab El Hammar, meaning the Donkey Driver's Gate, was once a crucial point for commerce, connecting Chefchaouen with major cities. It was amazing to stand in this ancient gateway and imagine the caravans of traders and travelers who had passed through it over the centuries. The architecture of the gate itself was impressive, a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage.


Explore the rich cultural heritage of Morocco at Bab El Hammar, a captivating museum in the stunning town of Chefchaouen.

As we walked through Bab El Hammar, I couldn't help but think about my own journey, from growing up in Kimberley, South Africa, to finding a home in Bamberg, Germany, and now exploring the world with my family. Life truly is an adventure, full of unexpected twists and turns. Every place holds a story, and I love uncovering the layers of history and culture that make each destination unique.

For lunch, we stopped at Café & restaurant Meftah, a charming spot known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. I decided to try the tagine with lamb and prunes, a local specialty. The lamb was incredibly tender, and the prunes added a touch of sweetness that perfectly complemented the savory flavors of the dish. Hans opted for a couscous dish, while Liesel enjoyed a simple but delicious chicken sandwich. The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café & Restaurant Meftah in Chefchaouen's enchanting blue city.

After lunch, while Hans took Liesel back to the riad for a nap, I decided to explore the local shops and souks. I was on the hunt for some unique souvenirs to bring back home. I found a beautiful handwoven rug with intricate Berber designs. I also picked up some spices and argan oil, hoping to recreate some of the delicious Moroccan dishes I had tasted during our trip. The shopkeepers were friendly and eager to share their stories, making the shopping experience all the more enjoyable.

As the afternoon wore on, I met up with Hans and Liesel again, and we decided to take a break at Bar Oum Rabie, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views. I ordered a glass of Moroccan wine, while Hans enjoyed a local beer, and Liesel had a refreshing juice. We sat on the terrace, soaking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the warm November sunshine. The weather has been quite pleasant, with comfortable temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the high 60s. It's perfect for exploring the city on foot.


Experience the flavors of Morocco at Bar Oum Rabie, a charming grill and wine bar in the heart of Chefchaouen.

For our final dinner in Chefchaouen, we chose Mandala, an Italian restaurant that came highly recommended. I know, I know, eating Italian food in Morocco might seem a bit odd, but we were all craving something different after several days of tagines and couscous. And let me tell you, Mandala did not disappoint! The pizza was delicious, with a perfectly crispy crust and fresh, flavorful toppings. Liesel devoured her spaghetti bolognese, while Hans raved about his lasagna. It was the perfect way to end our culinary journey in Chefchaouen.


Experience unique pizza flavors in Chefchaouen's enchanting atmosphere at Mandala – where Moroccan tradition meets culinary creativity.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from our riad, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had in Chefchaouen. This city has captured my heart with its beauty, its culture, and its people. It's a place that I will never forget, and I hope to return someday.


Discover the serene charm of Riad Zaitouna Chaouen, your perfect getaway in the heart of Chefchaouen, offering comfort, convenience, and cultural immersion.

Tomorrow, we will be exploring the Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve and Place El Haouta. I am looking forward to seeing a different side of Chefchaouen, venturing beyond the blue walls and into the surrounding natural landscape. I've packed my camera, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, ready for another day of adventure. Liesel is excited about the prospect of seeing some wildlife in the nature reserve, and Hans is eager to explore the local shops at Place El Haouta. We're also planning to stop by Full Moon shop.

Before I sign off, I must share a funny anecdote from today. As we were walking through the medina, Liesel spotted a cat perched on a windowsill, surrounded by colorful yarn. She was mesmerized and insisted on taking a photo. As she was snapping away, the cat suddenly jumped down and started playing with her shoelaces! Liesel burst into laughter, and it was such a heartwarming moment. It's these small, unexpected moments that make travel so special. They remind us to slow down, to appreciate the simple things, and to embrace the joy that can be found in every corner of the world.

Until tomorrow, keep chasing the blues away!