Family Adventure in the Blue Pearl of Morocco

Summiting High and Exploring Deep in Chefchaouen

Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of physical challenge and cultural immersion that perfectly encapsulates what I love about traveling. From scaling the heights of Jebel El-Kelaa to wandering the historic streets of Bab Chaouen, Chefchaouen revealed even more of its captivating charm. It's days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the joy of discovery and the thrill of experiencing new perspectives.

Our day began early, with a hearty breakfast at Toda Creperie & Ice Cream. Fuelled up with delicious crepes and strong coffee, Lena, Sofia and I set off for Jebel El-Kelaa Summit. I had read about the hike and was eager to experience the panoramic views it promised. The crisp morning air was invigorating, a welcome change from the Berlin air I'm used to. Sofia, ever the little trooper, was excited for a trek. I made sure we packed plenty of water, remembering my oversight with the sunglasses, and we hit the trail.


Experience delightful crepes and artisanal ice cream in Chefchaouen's charming ambiance.

The initial part of the hike was a gentle incline, a perfect warm-up as we ascended into the Rif Mountains. The trail was well-marked, but I could tell it would become more challenging as we approached the summit. Sofia was fascinated by the local flora, pointing out different plants and flowers. Lena, always the historian, shared interesting facts about the region's geology. I loved seeing them both so engaged. It made the experience even more special.

As we climbed higher, the path became steeper and rockier. I was grateful for my sturdy hiking boots, and I was glad I'd encouraged Lena to wear hers too. Sofia, however, seemed unfazed, scrambling over rocks with the agility of a mountain goat. There were moments where I had to give her a helping hand, but she was determined to keep up. The views were already becoming incredible, with the blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen shrinking below us.

The higher you climb, the better the view; the harder you work, the greater the reward.

The final ascent was definitely the most challenging. The air thinned, and my muscles burned. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest, but the thought of the summit kept me going. Lena and Sofia were equally determined, and we encouraged each other every step of the way. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, we reached the top.

The view from Jebel El-Kelaa Summit was simply breathtaking. The entire city of Chefchaouen sprawled beneath us, a sea of blue nestled in the green mountains. The Rif Mountains stretched out in every direction, their peaks shrouded in a light mist. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight, a reward well-earned for our efforts. We spent a good hour at the summit, soaking in the scenery and taking photos. Sofia was particularly thrilled, pointing out landmarks she recognized from below.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Jebel El-Kelaa Summit in Chefchaouen, a hiker's paradise with stunning views and vibrant cultural charm.

The descent was easier on the lungs but harder on the knees. We took our time, carefully navigating the rocky terrain. The landscape offered fresh perspectives of the region. We chose a different path for the return journey, which added variety to our hike. We encountered some friendly locals along the way, exchanging smiles and greetings. It's moments like these that remind me of the shared humanity that connects us all, no matter where we come from.

Back in Chefchaouen, we decided to explore Bab Chaouen, one of the city's iconic gates. It was a welcome change of pace after our strenuous hike. The area around Bab Chaouen was bustling with activity, a vibrant mix of locals and tourists. We wandered through the narrow streets, admiring the blue-washed buildings and soaking in the atmosphere.


Explore the enchanting blue streets of Bab Chaouen, a picturesque Moroccan town where vibrant culture meets breathtaking mountain scenery.

Lunch was at Restaurant blue dream, a charming little place near Bab Chaouen. We enjoyed traditional Moroccan tagines, savoring the rich flavors and spices. Sofia, surprisingly, devoured her tagine, declaring it the best meal of the trip so far. Lena and I shared a pot of mint tea, a perfect complement to the meal.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Blue Dream in Chefchaouen's stunning blue streets.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of Bab Chaouen. We visited a local artisan shop, where I picked up a beautiful hand-woven rug. Lena found a delicate silver necklace, a perfect addition to her collection. Sofia, of course, chose a brightly colored toy camel. It's always fun to find unique souvenirs that remind us of our travels.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Café Mundial for a relaxing evening. I had heard good things about this place and was eager to experience it for myself. The café was cozy and inviting, with comfortable seating and a laid-back vibe. I ordered a strong coffee, while Lena opted for a glass of Moroccan wine. Sofia, predictably, chose a pastry.


Experience the essence of Chefchaouen at Café Mundial, where delightful coffee meets a vibrant social scene in the heart of the blue city.

Café Mundial was the perfect spot to unwind after a long day. The atmosphere was lively, with locals and tourists mingling and chatting. We enjoyed the ambiance, soaking in the sounds and sights of Chefchaouen. It felt like we were truly immersed in the local culture.

Dinner was at RESTAURANT CASA ANDALUZ, a highly recommended spot known for its authentic Andalusian cuisine. The restaurant was beautifully decorated, with intricate tile work and traditional Moroccan lanterns. The food was exquisite, a delicious blend of flavors and textures. We savored every bite, enjoying the elegant ambiance and impeccable service. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Casa Andaluz in Chefchaouen - where flavor meets breathtaking views.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Chefchaouen with my family. The hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit was a physical challenge, but the reward was well worth the effort. Exploring Bab Chaouen was a cultural immersion, a chance to connect with the local community and discover hidden gems. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Kasbah and the Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen, further delving into the history and culture of this fascinating city. We might even do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Jabir shop chefchaouen before we leave. I'm already looking forward to another day of exploration and adventure in the Blue Pearl of Morocco. I think I might be forgetting how soon we have to head back to Berlin and the routine, but I am determined to make the most of it.

The colors, the sounds, the smells - all of it is getting logged in my memory, to be relived later. I feel so grateful to be able to share these moments with Lena and Sofia. It's these shared experiences that strengthen our bond and create lasting memories. Even the little things, like Sofia's excitement over a toy camel or Lena's delight in finding the perfect necklace, become precious moments in the tapestry of our family life. Travel is more than just seeing new places; it's about creating connections and enriching our lives in ways we never imagined. It's about stepping outside our comfort zones and embracing the unknown. It's about learning, growing, and discovering the beauty that exists in the world and within ourselves. And as our adventure in Chefchaouen continues, I'm excited to see what other treasures await us around the next blue corner.