Family Adventure in the Blue City of Chefchaouen

A Day of Discovery in Chefchaouen

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the tranquility of nature with the vibrant pulse of Chefchaouen's heart. From the serene landscapes of Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve, it was a day filled with rich experiences and unforgettable moments.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers and adventurers in Morocco.

Our day began with an early breakfast at Restaurant Al Wiam. It's a charming little place, tucked away from the main thoroughfare, and came highly recommended for its authentic Moroccan breakfast. We fueled up with traditional Moroccan pancakes, honey, and mint tea, ready for a day of exploration. Liesel, of course, enjoyed her usual – a croissant and a large glass of orange juice. I always find that a hearty breakfast sets the tone for a day of adventure.

With breakfast done, we set off for Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve. The reserve is a sprawling expanse of natural beauty, a stark contrast to the blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen. The drive there was an experience in itself, with winding roads offering stunning views of the Rif Mountains. Hans was at the wheel, expertly navigating the roads while Liesel and I gazed out at the scenery. I made sure to bring along some snacks for Liesel, remembering how important it is to keep her energy levels up during our outdoor adventures.

Once we arrived at Jebel Bouhachem, we were immediately enveloped by the tranquility of the reserve. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the bustling city. The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and we were eager to explore its trails. We opted for a moderate hike, one that would allow us to soak in the scenery without being too strenuous for Liesel. As we walked, we were surrounded by lush greenery, the sounds of birds filling the air. I tried to identify some of the bird species, drawing on my limited knowledge from our hiking trips in Franconian Switzerland. Liesel, ever curious, peppered us with questions about the trees, the birds, and the little critters we encountered along the way.

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

We paused at a scenic viewpoint, taking in the panoramic views of the mountains and valleys. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the beauty and power of nature. I took out my camera, snapping photos to capture the moment, hoping to preserve the feeling of peace and tranquility. Hans pointed out different peaks and told us stories he had read about the area. Liesel, meanwhile, was busy collecting fallen leaves and flowers, adding them to her ever-growing collection of travel mementos. After a while, we found a nice spot and enjoyed the picnic we had prepared before leaving the Riad, consisting of cheese sandwiches and fruit.

After our invigorating hike, we drove back to Chefchaouen, ready to immerse ourselves in the city's vibrant atmosphere. Our destination was Place El Haouta, a picturesque square known for its unique architecture and charming ambiance. As we approached the square, we could already feel the energy building. The sounds of music, chatter, and laughter filled the air, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere.


Discover the vibrant heart of Chefchaouen at Place El Haouta, where culture, cuisine, and stunning views blend seamlessly into an unforgettable experience.

Place El Haouta is a true gem, a place where locals and tourists alike gather to soak in the beauty of Chefchaouen. The square is surrounded by blue-tiled buildings, their classic arches and iron grills adding to the square's unique character. We strolled around, admiring the architecture and taking in the sights and sounds. Liesel was particularly fascinated by the four-sided fountain in the center of the square, providing locals with refreshing drinking water. She insisted on taking a sip, declaring it the best water she had ever tasted.

The square was bustling with activity. Street performers entertained the crowds, artisans showcased their talents, and vendors sold their wares. We watched a group of musicians playing traditional Moroccan music, their melodies filling the square with a sense of joy and celebration. Liesel couldn't resist joining in, clapping her hands and dancing to the rhythm. I bartered for a colorful scarf from a local vendor, a memento of our visit to Chefchaouen. Hans, meanwhile, was busy capturing the scene with his camera, documenting the vibrant energy of the square. I also popped into the Full Moon shop, finding some unique trinkets that will remind me of this beautiful place.


Explore the enchanting Full Moon Shop in Chefchaouen for unique gifts and local craftsmanship that embody Moroccan culture.

For lunch, we decided to try Amigo, a local restaurant known for its delicious Moroccan dishes. We ordered a tagine and some couscous, eager to sample the local cuisine. The food was flavorful and satisfying, a true taste of Morocco. Liesel, surprisingly, enjoyed the tagine, devouring the tender meat and vegetables with gusto. I made a mental note to try and recreate the dish back home in Bamberg, adding a German twist to it, perhaps.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Amigo in Chefchaouen—where tradition meets flavor in a charming atmosphere.

As the afternoon wore on, we found ourselves drawn to the many shops lining the square. Chefchaouen is known for its handicrafts, and we were eager to explore the local offerings. We visited a few shops, admiring the intricate woodwork, woven carpets, and hand-painted furniture. Liesel was particularly drawn to a shop selling colorful hats, trying on each one and striking a pose. I ended up buying her a traditional Moroccan hat, a souvenir she will surely cherish. I also found a beautiful Berber rug that will look perfect in our living room back in Bamberg.

With our shopping spree complete, we decided to take a break at a local café, savoring traditional Moroccan mint tea while soaking up the sights and sounds of the square. The tea was sweet and refreshing, a perfect way to end a day of exploration. We sat there for a while, watching the world go by, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Chefchaouen.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Hamsa, drawn in by the good reviews and the promise of vegan options. The restaurant had a lovely rooftop terrace with views over the main square. I opted for the falafel plate, while Hans enjoyed a traditional tagine. Liesel, of course, chose the vegan chocolate cake, devouring it with her usual enthusiasm. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and delightful teas at Restaurant Hamsa in Chefchaouen's charming blue city.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Riad Zaitouna Chaouen, feeling tired but content. It had been a day of contrasts, blending the tranquility of nature with the vibrant pulse of Chefchaouen's heart. I thought about tomorrow, our last day in Chefchaouen. We plan to visit Hero Eagle and Bab Chaouen, soaking up as much of this magical city as we can before we leave. I am already dreading the thought of leaving this enchanting blue city, but I know that we will carry its beauty and charm with us, wherever we go. Perhaps we'll grab a drink at Cafe Clock before we head out.


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

Back at the riad, as I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. From the serene landscapes of Jebel Bouhachem to the bustling atmosphere of Place El Haouta, it was a day filled with rich moments and unforgettable memories. And as I reflect on our adventures, I am reminded once again of the power of travel to open our minds, broaden our horizons, and connect us with the world around us. I am also grateful for having my family with me, sharing these experiences and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we leave Chefchaouen, but the memories we have created here will stay with us forever.