Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen

A Day of Discovery in the Blue Pearl

Today was about peeling back another layer of Chefchaouen, venturing beyond the iconic blue streets to explore its cultural heart and scenic viewpoints. Isabella and I were eager to immerse ourselves in the local history and soak in the panoramic vistas that this mountain city had to offer. It was a day filled with unexpected delights and a deeper appreciation for the charm of the 'Blue Pearl.'

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mounir Food. The reviews I had read online were a bit mixed, but we decided to give it a try, and I'm glad we did. It was a simple, no-frills kind of place, but the omelettes were cooked just right, and the mint tea was the perfect start to a day of exploring. Fueled up and ready to go, our first stop was the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen.


Explore the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen, a captivating showcase of Morocco's vibrant culture, history, and local craftsmanship.
Located within the Kasbah, the Ethnographic Museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the region's cultural heritage. The Kasbah itself is quite striking with its reddish clay walls contrasting against the blue backdrop of the town. Inside, the museum was a treasure trove of artifacts, from traditional costumes and Berber carpets to ancient weapons and musical instruments. Isabella, with her librarian's curiosity, was particularly captivated by the displays of traditional clothing and jewelry, while I found myself drawn to the exhibits showcasing the region's craftsmanship and trade. It was interesting to see how the Berber, Arab, and Andalusian cultures have intertwined over the centuries to shape the unique identity of Chefchaouen.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

After the museum, we decided to take a stroll to Bab El Ain, one of the historic gates of the Medina.


Explore the historical beauty of Bab El Ain in Chefchaouen, a stunning gateway to Moroccan heritage and vibrant local culture.
As we approached, the gate stood as a striking testament to the town's rich history. Bab El Ain, I learned, translates to The Water Source Gate, named for a natural spring that once flowed nearby. Apparently, it marks the boundary between the old fortified city and the more modern, Spanish-influenced part of Chefchaouen. I could almost imagine the bustling activity of traders and travelers passing through this gate centuries ago. The intricate metalwork on the doors hinted at the craftsmanship and cultural fusion that have shaped Chefchaouen over time. We took some photos, soaking in the atmosphere and the stunning views of the Rif Mountains in the distance.

Lunchtime found us at Restaurant Hamsa, a place I'd read about that offered both delicious food and stunning views.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and delightful teas at Restaurant Hamsa in Chefchaouen's charming blue city.
We managed to snag a table on the rooftop terrace, which, as promised, provided a panoramic vista of the blue houses cascading down the hillside. Isabella opted for the falafel plate, while I decided to try the vegetable tagine, a Moroccan staple. The food was flavorful and satisfying, but the real highlight was the view. As we savored our meal, we watched as the sunlight danced across the blue-washed walls, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of light and shadow.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off to find the Hero Eagle, a viewpoint that promised even more breathtaking vistas.


Discover the breathtaking views from Hero Eagle, a must-see viewpoint in the stunning blue town of Chefchaouen, Morocco, where nature meets culture.
The walk took us through the winding streets of the medina, past bustling markets and hidden alleyways. It was a bit of a climb, but the views from the top were well worth the effort. From our vantage point, the entire city stretched out before us, a sea of blue nestled amidst the rugged peaks of the Rif Mountains. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the occasional call to prayer from a nearby mosque. I took some photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the scene, but no image could truly do it justice. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to connect with the beauty of nature and the rich history of this enchanting place.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Bazar Sáhara.


Explore Bazar Sáhara in Chefchaouen for unique Moroccan gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of this magical blue city.
I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back home to Edmonton. The shop was a sensory overload of colors, textures, and scents. From intricately woven carpets and leather goods to aromatic spices and hand-painted ceramics, there was something to tempt every taste. I finally settled on a beautiful Berber rug for our living room and a set of hand-carved wooden bowls for Isabella. The shopkeeper, a friendly Berber man with a twinkle in his eye, regaled us with stories of his family and their craft. It was a reminder that shopping in Chefchaouen was not just about buying souvenirs, but about connecting with the local culture and supporting the livelihoods of its people.

For dinner, we chose Chez Aziz.


Experience the fusion of traditional Moroccan cuisine and international flavors at Chez Aziz in Chefchaouen.
The staff were amazingly hospitable. The rooms are spacious and clean. Breakfast was brought up to our room every morning and was delicious. Free green Moroccan tea all day. It was a short walk to the old town. Unique rooms and great breakfast. The staff are extremely friendly, too! It was a beautiful start to our trip to Morocco. The terrace was beautiful. The breakfast was delicious. The room was spectacular, it could hold 12 people comfortably. The staff are extremely friendly, too! The room was spectacular, it could hold 12 people comfortably. The food was flavorful, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect ending to a day of cultural immersion and scenic delights.

As we walked back to Dar Nokhba Inn, the city was bathed in the soft glow of twilight.


Experience the charm of Chefchaouen at Dar Nokhba Inn, a cozy retreat with modern amenities, perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation lovers.
The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and music, and the scent of tagine wafted from nearby restaurants. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Chefchaouen. It was a place that had captured my heart with its beauty, its history, and its warm and welcoming people.

Tomorrow, we're off to Tetouan, a city with its own unique charm and history. I'm particularly looking forward to exploring Tetouan's old Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Tetuan Modern Art Center. We'll also be sure to take a stroll through Feddan Park and sample some local cuisine at Traditional kitchen for breakfast, Restaurant Hajji for lunch, and The Magic Lamp House of Aladin for dinner. And, of course, no trip to Tetouan would be complete without a visit to Restaurant Bar Chaouen for a taste of the local nightlife. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us!

Tonight, however, I'll rest thinking of the gorgeous views and the friendly faces of Chefchaouen. I am glad Isabella and I got to experience the best of it together!