Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: Chefchaouen Adventure

Blue Hues and Sunday Views

Today was all about soaking in the unique atmosphere of Chefchaouen, the 'Blue Pearl' of Morocco. After six days of wandering through this enchanting city, you might think the novelty would wear off, but every corner here seems to offer a new perspective, a fresh shade of blue, and another friendly face. It's a place that truly captures the heart, and I'm so glad I'm experiencing it with my friends.

Our day began, as most do here, with a leisurely breakfast. We headed to Assaada, a restaurant recommended by our Maison D'hôtes Afassi host. The morning air was crisp, a refreshing change from the Toronto chill I'm used to. Assaada was a charming spot, bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with traditional Moroccan fare. I opted for the classic mint tea and some freshly baked bread, which was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring. Olivia, ever the adventurous one, tried a local pastry filled with almonds and honey – she declared it divine!


Experience the charm of Chefchaouen at Maison D'hôtes Afassi, a cozy retreat with convenient amenities for travelers seeking adventure.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to find the famed Hero Eagle. It wasn't explicitly mentioned in any guidebook, but I'd seen some intriguing photos online and decided to track it down. After a bit of wandering through the maze-like streets, we finally stumbled upon it – a majestic sculpture of an eagle perched high on a rooftop, overlooking the city. The views from there were breathtaking, offering a panoramic perspective of Chefchaouen's blue-washed buildings cascading down the hillside. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place, hoping my camera could do justice to the scene before me. It's moments like these that remind me why I love photography – freezing a piece of time and space to relive later.


Discover the breathtaking views from Hero Eagle, a must-see viewpoint in the stunning blue town of Chefchaouen, Morocco, where nature meets culture.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are the ones you weren't even looking for.

Next on our list was the Sidi Bouchouka photo spot. I had seen countless pictures of this iconic location – a vibrant blue staircase adorned with colorful tiles and intricate mosaics. Finding it was an adventure in itself, navigating through narrow alleyways and bustling marketplaces. When we finally arrived, it was even more captivating than I had imagined. The play of colors against the blue backdrop was mesmerizing, creating a visual feast for the eyes. Of course, we had to take the obligatory photos, trying different angles and poses to capture the perfect shot. It's funny how a simple staircase can become such a symbol of a place, but Sidi Bouchouka truly embodies the charm and character of Chefchaouen. I even managed to get Olivia to pose for a portrait – she looked radiant against the blue backdrop, her auburn hair a striking contrast to the cool tones of the city.


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

Lunchtime found us at Restaurant Ali Baba. After the morning's adventures, we were all ravenous. The restaurant was bustling, filled with the aroma of spices and sizzling tagines. I decided to try the tagine with chicken and olives, a classic Moroccan dish that never disappoints. The flavors were rich and complex, a perfect blend of sweet and savory. Olivia opted for the vegetarian couscous, which was equally delicious, packed with vegetables and fragrant herbs. While we ate, we chatted about our favorite moments from the trip so far, reminiscing about the stunning landscapes, the friendly locals, and the unique cultural experiences. It's these shared moments that make traveling with friends so special – creating memories that will last a lifetime.


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

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break from sightseeing and relax at Café Mundial. I was ready for something refreshing. The café was a cozy spot, filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. I ordered a traditional mint tea, which arrived in a beautiful silver teapot, accompanied by a small glass filled with sugar. The tea was sweet and fragrant, a perfect pick-me-up after a long day of walking. As I sipped my tea, I watched the world go by, observing the locals going about their daily lives – children playing in the streets, vendors selling their wares, and families strolling hand in hand. It's these everyday moments that offer the most authentic glimpse into a culture, revealing the true heart and soul of a place.


Experience the heart of Chefchaouen at Café Mundial, where Moroccan culture meets delightful café ambiance in a picturesque setting.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Dar El Salam, hoping to experience more authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was tucked away in a quiet corner of the medina, exuding a sense of tranquility and charm. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with soft lighting and traditional décor. I decided to try the Harira soup, a hearty and flavorful soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes. It was the perfect comfort food after a long day of exploring. Olivia, being the seafood lover that she is, ordered the grilled fish, which was fresh and delicious. As we savored our meal, we reflected on our day in Chefchaouen, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such a unique and captivating place.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Dar El Salam in Chefchaouen's enchanting Blue City.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the blue city, we made our way back to Maison D'hôtes Afassi. The air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, creating a festive atmosphere. Before heading in for the night, we sat on the rooftop terrace, gazing at the stars twinkling above. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a moment of peace and serenity in the heart of Chefchaouen. Tomorrow, we're venturing beyond Chefchaouen to Tetouan. I'm particularly excited about visiting the Tetuan Modern Art Center and exploring Tetouan's old Medina map. I've heard great things about Café Restaurant Marisco Twins, where we plan to have breakfast, and I'm also looking forward to discovering new culinary delights at Restaurant Bab Kasaba and Restaurant Jbaria. Plus, a visit to La Botica De La Abuela De Aladdin is on the cards – I'm always up for finding unique souvenirs!

As I close my eyes tonight, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Chefchaouen has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow brings. Goodnight from the Blue Pearl of Morocco!

I almost forgot to mention – I’m still kicking myself for forgetting the travel adapter! Charging my camera and phone has been a bit of a scramble, relying on the generosity of our hosts. And with the occasional light rain, I certainly missed having my rain jacket today. Note to self: double-check the essentials before the next trip!

The day was a beautiful reminder of why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with different cultures, trying new things, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And sharing these experiences with friends makes it all the more special. As I always say, the best stories are the ones we live together.