Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: Chefchaouen Adventure

From Blue Alleys to Verdant Peaks

Today was a day of striking contrasts, a true testament to the diverse beauty that Chefchaouen and its surroundings have to offer. We journeyed from the mesmerizing blue-washed streets of the town to the rugged, green landscapes of Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve. It was an adventure that fed both our souls and our appetites, leaving us with memories to cherish.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Chez Aziz. Waking up in Chefchaouen is always a treat, the cool mountain air and the soft morning light filtering through the blue walls of our accommodation. Chez Aziz offered a simple yet satisfying start to the day. I enjoyed some traditional Moroccan pancakes with honey, while the others opted for a continental breakfast. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore.

The initial plan was to dedicate the entire day to the Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve. However, as we savoured our breakfast, we decided to first immerse ourselves in the enchanting blue alleys of Chefchaouen a little longer. It's hard to resist the allure of this town, especially with a camera in hand. Olivia, with her graphic designer's eye, was particularly keen on capturing the play of light and shadow on the azure walls.

So, we wandered through the medina, losing ourselves in the labyrinthine streets. Every corner turned revealed a new photo opportunity: a vibrant doorway, a cascading bougainvillea, or a local artisan crafting intricate leather goods. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me, a feeling that seems to permeate every inch of this blue city.

We stumbled upon Bazar Sahara, a charming shop brimming with Moroccan crafts and souvenirs. The shop was a treasure trove of colorful textiles, handwoven rugs, and intricately designed ceramics. I picked up a beautiful, hand-painted ceramic bowl as a memento of our trip, while Olivia found a stunning, handwoven rug. The shopkeeper was incredibly friendly, sharing stories about the local artisans and the history behind the crafts. It's these interactions that make travelling so enriching, connecting with people and learning about their culture.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing new perspectives.

After our morning in the blue town, we finally set off for Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve. The drive itself was an adventure, winding through narrow mountain roads with breathtaking views of the Rif Mountains. The landscape transformed from the blue hues of Chefchaouen to the lush greenery of the reserve. It was a welcome change of scenery, and a reminder of the natural beauty that Morocco has to offer beyond its cities.


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

Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve is a haven of biodiversity, home to a variety of plant and animal species. As we hiked through the reserve, we were surrounded by towering cedar and oak trees, the air filled with the sounds of birdsong. The trails were well-maintained, making for a pleasant and relatively easy hike. I was particularly impressed by the efforts to conserve the area's natural resources and promote sustainable tourism.

We spent several hours exploring the reserve, taking in the stunning views and enjoying the peace and quiet of nature. It was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, a chance to reconnect with the natural world. I made sure to capture as many photos as possible, wanting to remember every detail of this incredible place.

By lunchtime, we were ravenous. We drove back towards Chefchaouen and stopped at Restaurant populaire for lunch. As the name suggests, this place is a local favorite, serving up traditional Moroccan dishes at affordable prices. The atmosphere was lively and bustling, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered a tagine and some couscous, both of which were delicious. It was the perfect way to refuel after our hike.

As we ate, we chatted about our experiences so far. Olivia was particularly taken with the blue alleys of Chefchaouen, while Mark was fascinated by the biodiversity of Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve. I was simply happy to be experiencing all of it, soaking in the sights, sounds, and smells of Morocco.

After lunch, we decided to head back to Chefchaouen for a bit of relaxation before dinner. We found a quiet spot in a local square and sipped on some mint tea, watching the world go by. It was a simple pleasure, but one that I savoured. There's something magical about Moroccan mint tea, the sweet, fragrant aroma and the warmth of the tea itself. It's the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.

As evening approached, we made our way to Hôtel restaurant La fuente for dinner. This restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and its cozy atmosphere. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the cool evening air and the stunning views of the town. The menu featured an array of traditional dishes, from tagines to grilled meats, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the heart of Chefchaouen at Hôtel Restaurant La Fuente.

I opted for the lamb tagine, while Olivia chose the vegetarian couscous. Both dishes were incredibly flavorful and satisfying. The service was friendly and attentive, making for a truly enjoyable dining experience. Hôtel restaurant La fuente is definitely a place I would recommend to anyone visiting Chefchaouen.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the medina, enjoying the vibrant nightlife. The streets were alive with music and laughter, the air filled with the aroma of spices and street food. We stopped at a local café for some more mint tea before heading back to our accommodation for the night.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how fortunate I am to be able to experience such incredible places. From the blue alleys of Chefchaouen to the verdant peaks of Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve, Morocco has truly captured my heart. It's a country of contrasts, a place where ancient traditions meet modern life, where natural beauty abounds, and where the people are warm and welcoming.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Hero Eagle and Sidi Bouchouka photo spot, followed by drinks at Café Mundial. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us!

As I lay in bed tonight, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and anticipation. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, to explore more of this incredible country, and to share my experiences with all of you.

I’m so glad I remembered to pack my camera, though I did kick myself for forgetting the travel adapter! Luckily, Mark had one we could borrow. And I still wish I had brought a rain jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable.

“To travel is to live.” Indeed.