Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen

A Fond Farewell to Chefchaouen

As my Moroccan adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences I’ve had in Chefchaouen. This final day was a blend of cultural immersion, scenic views, and delicious flavors, creating lasting memories that I'm eager to share. I'm sitting here tonight, penning this entry, with a heart full of gratitude for the experiences Morocco has offered me. It's funny, isn't it? How a place can seep into your soul and leave you changed.

Our day started with a delightful breakfast at Chez Foad. Isabella had read about this family-run restaurant, and it seemed like the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast. The warm hospitality and authentic flavors were a wonderful way to kick off our last day, a fitting culinary embrace to start our final day in Chefchaouen. I opted for the classic *ftour beldi*, savoring the combination of fresh bread, local cheese, and sweet honey. I must admit, I probably ate more bread than I should have, but every bite was worth it! Isabella enjoyed a flavorful tagine, which she declared was the best she’d had on the trip – a high compliment, considering the amount of tagine she has consumed this week.

After breakfast, and with the sun shining brightly, we decided to take on a hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, the views promised to be spectacular, and I was keen to stretch my legs. Isabella, as always, was excited to capture the panoramic views with her camera. She read somewhere that, from the summit, one might see all the way across the Mediterranean Sea to Spain, and up to the snow-capped peaks of Granada's Sierra Nevada. The climb was invigorating, and the higher we ascended, the more breathtaking the scenery became. The city’s blue hues spread out beneath us, contrasting beautifully with the green landscape. I must admit, the last part of the hike was quite steep, and I found myself pausing more than once to catch my breath.


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

The journey matters more than the destination, especially when that journey is filled with unexpected beauty and shared moments.

Reaching the summit of Jebel El-Kelaa was an accomplishment, and the views were simply mesmerizing. Isabella, of course, was in her element, snapping photos from every possible angle. I, on the other hand, found a quiet spot to sit and soak it all in. The vastness of the landscape was humbling, and I felt a profound sense of peace. It was a moment I will treasure for a long time. After taking in the panoramic views, we started our descent, which was just as challenging as the climb up. We took our time, enjoying the scenery and chatting about our favorite moments from the trip. I was already feeling a pang of sadness, knowing that our time in Chefchaouen was coming to an end.

Back in town, we decided to spend some time at Park Sidi Abdelhamid. This park offered a tranquil escape from the bustling medina, with lovely gardens and peaceful walkways. We strolled hand-in-hand, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the beautiful views of the city. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on our experiences. However, I must admit, the park was not maintained as well as it could have been, with some litter and signs of neglect. It was a bit disappointing, but we still appreciated the natural beauty and the sense of calm it provided.


Discover the serene beauty of Park Sidi Abdelhamid in Chefchaouen, a tranquil escape filled with lush landscapes and vibrant flora.

Next on our list was a visit to Bab El Hammar, one of the historic gates of Chefchaouen. As we approached the gate, I couldn't help but think of the many people who had passed through it over the centuries, each with their own stories and experiences. The gate itself was an impressive structure, and I was fascinated by its history. Apparently, the name refers to donkey drivers, and it used to be a starting point of trade between Chefchaouen and other cities. We spent some time exploring the surrounding area, taking in the sights and sounds of the medina. The vibrant atmosphere was infectious, and I found myself smiling at the friendly faces we encountered.


Explore the rich cultural heritage of Morocco at Bab El Hammar, a captivating museum in the stunning town of Chefchaouen.

For lunch, we chose Restaurant Blue Dream, enticed by its promise of authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with traditional décor and a warm ambiance. I ordered a tagine, eager to taste another variation of this classic dish. It was delicious, with tender meat and flavorful spices. Isabella opted for the vegetable couscous, which she thoroughly enjoyed. The service was excellent, and the staff made us feel right at home. It was a perfect spot to relax and refuel after our morning adventures.


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

After lunch, we decided to indulge in some souvenir shopping. We ventured into the Full Moon shop, drawn by its unique and handcrafted items. The shop was a treasure trove of local artistry, with textiles, pottery, and jewelry galore. I was particularly impressed by the intricate designs and the vibrant colors. I ended up buying a beautiful handwoven scarf for Isabella, a small token of our time in Chefchaouen. She, in turn, found a lovely piece of pottery for our home in Edmonton. The shopkeeper was friendly and helpful, sharing stories about the artisans who created the items. It was a delightful experience, and we left feeling like we had taken a piece of Chefchaouen with us.


Explore the enchanting Full Moon Shop in Chefchaouen for unique gifts and local craftsmanship that embody Moroccan culture.

Our final dinner in Chefchaouen was at Restaurant Triana. This restaurant was recommended to us for its Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, offering a welcome change from the traditional Moroccan fare we had been enjoying. The atmosphere was lively, with live music adding to the ambiance. I ordered the seafood salad, while Isabella chose the pasta. The food was delicious, and the service was attentive. It was a perfect way to celebrate our last night in this magical city. As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip, from the stunning blue streets to the warm hospitality of the locals.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Triana in Chefchaouen – where tradition meets flavor in a picturesque setting.

As I sit here now, writing this final entry, I am filled with a mix of emotions. I am sad to be leaving Chefchaouen, but I am also grateful for the incredible experiences I have had. This city has captured my heart with its beauty, its culture, and its people. I will cherish the memories I have made here, and I hope to return someday. As we prepare to leave for Tangier tomorrow, I know that this adventure will stay with me forever. Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl of Morocco, you will be missed.

I am already looking forward to sharing these stories with my wife, Isabella, back home in Edmonton. Perhaps, I'll even try my hand at recreating some of the delicious Moroccan dishes we've enjoyed. Until next time, dear readers, *Au Revoir* from Morocco!

Tomorrow, we leave Chefchaouen to head back home. I'm eager to get back to my job as a Maple Syrup Coordinator, but I know a part of me will always remain in this beautiful blue city. I will miss the call to prayer echoing through the medina, the scent of spices in the air, and the warmth of the Moroccan people. But I take with me memories that will last a lifetime, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have experienced this magical place.