Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Akchour's Natural Beauty
Today, Isabella and I ventured beyond the blue-washed walls of Chefchaouen and immersed ourselves in the natural beauty of Akchour. Known for its stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes, Akchour promised a refreshing escape from the summer heat. We were excited to trade the city's vibrant colors for the greens and blues of the Rif Mountains, ready for a day of hiking and exploration.

Our day began with a hearty Moroccan breakfast at Restaurant Al Wiam [i]. I savored the tasty Moroccan chicken and bean soup, while Isabella enjoyed the couscous [i]. The friendly staff and calm atmosphere made it a perfect start to our adventurous day [i]. Energized, we set off towards Akchour, a scenic drive that took us through winding mountain roads. The views were simply breathtaking, with glimpses of the Rif Mountains at every turn. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos, trying to capture the essence of Morocco's natural beauty.

Upon arriving in Akchour, we were immediately greeted by the sounds of rushing water and the sight of lush greenery. The air was noticeably cooler and fresher than in Chefchaouen, a welcome change. We decided to hike to the Grande Cascade D'akchour, the larger of the two main waterfalls in the area. The trail was well-maintained, but with some rocky sections, proving that my comfortable walking shoes were an excellent choice. Isabella was glad she brought hers as well.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Grande Cascade D'akchour, a tranquil natural preserve near Chefchaouen, rich in waterfalls and stunning landscapes.

As we hiked deeper into the park, the scenery became increasingly enchanting. The path followed the river, with numerous small cascades and natural pools along the way. The vibrant green landscape was a feast for the eyes, and the sound of the water was incredibly soothing. We even spotted some playful monkeys in the trees, adding to the magic of the place. The sun was warm, but the shade from the trees kept us comfortable.

The journey to the Grande Cascade was as rewarding as the destination itself, a testament to the serene beauty of Morocco's natural landscapes.

After about two hours of hiking, we finally reached the Grande Cascade. The waterfall was truly spectacular, a powerful column of water plunging down a sheer rock face into a crystal-clear pool below. The mist from the falls created a refreshing spray, and we could see small rainbows dancing in the sunlight. We took some time to simply admire the view, soaking in the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. I took the opportunity to capture the moment with my camera, hoping to do justice to the grandeur of the falls.

Isabella and I decided to take a refreshing dip in one of the natural pools at the base of the falls. The water was cold, but invigorating, and it felt wonderful after the hike. We swam for a while, enjoying the cool water and the stunning scenery. It was the perfect way to relax and recharge before heading back.

On our way back, we stopped at Café & restaurant Meftah for a well-deserved lunch. I had a hearty tagine, while Isabella enjoyed a fresh salad. The beautiful view and friendly staff made it a delightful experience. We chatted about our favorite moments from the hike, already planning our next adventure in Morocco.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café & Restaurant Meftah in Chefchaouen's enchanting blue city.

Before leaving Akchour, we made a quick stop at Jabir shop chefchaouen. I picked up a few handmade souvenirs for our friends back home, while Isabella found a beautiful piece of pottery for our kitchen. The owner was incredibly friendly, sharing stories about the local artisans and the history of the crafts. It was a great way to support the local community and take a piece of Moroccan culture back with us.


Explore Jabir Shop in Chefchaouen for unique Moroccan gifts and souvenirs that embody the spirit of the blue city.

For dinner, we decided to try Hôtel restaurant La Fuente. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and served delicious Moroccan cuisine at affordable prices. I enjoyed the Beef Tajine, while Isabella had the Chicken Couscous. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


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

As we drove back to Chefchaouen, I reflected on our Akchour adventure. The stunning waterfalls, lush landscapes, and delicious Moroccan flavors had created unforgettable memories. It was a day of natural beauty, physical activity, and cultural immersion, everything that Isabella and I love about traveling. I am glad I remembered to bring my camera, but I am kicking myself for forgetting an extra memory card!

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve and visit Bab Chaouen. I am looking forward to more hiking and discovering new hidden gems in this beautiful region of Morocco.