Family Adventure in the Blue City of Chefchaouen

A Daydream in Blue

Today was like stepping into a living postcard, a dream painted in a thousand shades of blue. Chefchaouen, you've completely stolen my heart! From the moment I woke up, I knew this day would be special, filled with the kind of magic that only happens when you're completely immersed in a new culture and surrounded by breathtaking beauty.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Sofia, one of the many charming restaurants lining Plaza Uta el Hamman. Sipping on strong Moroccan coffee and savoring freshly baked bread, I watched as the town slowly awakened. The plaza, the heart of Chefchaouen, was already buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in this unique blue city. It's funny, back in Bamberg, Hans always teases me about my love for vibrant colors, but even he was mesmerized by the monochromatic charm of Chefchaouen.


Explore Chefchaouen: A Moroccan gem known for its stunning blue streets and authentic culinary experiences.

After breakfast, we decided to explore Plaza Uta el Hamman a bit more. This square has served as the historical and touristic heart of the city. Once a training ground for riders and martial artists, it has evolved into the oldest and most iconic of Chefchaouen’s squares. The large tree at the center makes for a great meeting point before exploring the medina. The kids were excited to see all the sights in the Plaza, and I knew I had to keep a close eye on Liesel so she wouldn't wander off!


Discover the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Chefchaouen, Morocco's enchanting blue city nestled in the Rif Mountains.

Next on our list was the Grand Mosque, a significant landmark that dominates the plaza. It's the oldest mosque in Chefchaouen. The mosque dates back to the 15th century. While non-Muslims aren't allowed inside, I admired its architecture from the outside, especially the unusual octagonal minaret. The minaret is believed to date from the late 17th century. I learned that the Grand Mosque has been used for meetings of local leaders and town meetings. As a history enthusiast, I found it fascinating to learn about the mosque's importance in the town's history and culture.


Discover the stunning Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen, an architectural gem that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Morocco amidst the breathtaking blue-washed city.

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its blue walls, but in the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of its people.

Lunch at Restaurant Morisco was an absolute treat. We savored local dishes specific to the region, including ftour beldi. The restaurant's location on Plaza Uta el Hamman made it the perfect spot for people-watching. Liesel enjoyed her meal so much! I managed to capture some great photos of her enjoying the food. I am planning to add them to my blog post later.


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

After lunch, we wandered through the maze-like streets of the medina, getting delightfully lost in the blue-washed alleys. Every corner turned revealed a new photo opportunity, a more charming doorway, or a more vibrant splash of blue. The autumn sun cast long shadows, creating a magical atmosphere. I couldn't resist buying a few souvenirs, including a beautiful handwoven scarf and some aromatic spices for my cooking experiments back in Bamberg.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Sunset at Sunset, a bar known for its stunning views. While it was a bit of a challenge to find, tucked away in a quiet corner of the medina, the effort was well worth it. Sipping on refreshing drinks, we watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The view of the blue city from above was simply breathtaking. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. The bar is open daily, but closes relatively early. I was so glad we made it in time!


Unwind at Sunset at Sunset, a magical bar in Chefchaouen offering breathtaking views and a relaxing ambiance amidst vibrant blue-washed buildings.

During our time at Sunset at Sunset, I had a chance to reflect on the day's adventures. Chefchaouen had exceeded all my expectations. The blue-washed streets, the vibrant culture, and the warm hospitality of the people had created an unforgettable experience. As someone who loves cultural exchange, I found myself completely captivated by the blend of Berber and Andalusian influences in the town's architecture and traditions.

Liesel, of course, was already fast asleep, dreaming of blue houses and winding alleys. Hans and I lingered a little longer, soaking in the magical atmosphere. As we walked back to our riad, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore El Mellah and Bab El Ain, continuing our adventure in this enchanting blue city. I'm particularly excited about visiting B & H Art Shop, hoping to find some unique treasures to bring back home. I know Liesel is excited about that, too!

Chefchaouen, you've captured a piece of my heart. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

And as I sit here now, writing this in the quiet of our riad, I'm filled with a sense of contentment and gratitude. This trip with my family is exactly what we needed – a chance to reconnect, to explore, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And who knows, maybe I'll even try my hand at brewing some Moroccan-inspired beer when we get back to Bamberg. Hans would certainly approve of that!

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I'm reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta, the famous Moroccan traveler:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And that's exactly what I hope to do – to share the stories of my travels with you, to inspire you to explore the world and discover its hidden gems. So stay tuned for more adventures from Chefchaouen, and from wherever our journey takes us next. Goodnight from the Blue Pearl, and may your dreams be as colorful as the streets of this magical city. I am already looking forward to sharing more experiences with you all!

P.S. I almost forgot! I did manage to find a small adapter in one of the shops today, so crisis averted! And I made a mental note to buy an extra memory card tomorrow. Lesson learned – always double-check your packing list!

I think it’s safe to say, that today will be forever remembered as the day we truly fell in love with Chefchaouen.