Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

A Day of Discoveries in the Blue Pearl

Today was all about diving deeper into the heart of Chefchaouen, exploring its less-trodden paths and soaking up the unique atmosphere that makes this blue city so captivating. I was excited to see what hidden gems awaited us, and Chefchaouen certainly didn't disappoint.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Triana. Lena and I decided to try it out, and it was a great way to start the day. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with msemen (a type of flaky pancake) and a generous serving of honey. Lena, ever the lover of familiar comforts, chose a simple omelet. The restaurant had a cozy ambiance, and the staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.

After breakfast, we set out to find the Hero Eagle. It wasn't exactly what I expected, more of a local landmark than a grand monument, but it offered a fantastic vantage point overlooking the city. The views were breathtaking, with the blue-washed buildings cascading down the hillside and the Rif Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. I spent a good hour snapping photos, trying to capture the essence of Chefchaouen's beauty. Lena, meanwhile, enjoyed sketching the scene in her notebook, capturing the play of light and shadow on the blue walls.


Discover the breathtaking views from Hero Eagle, a must-see viewpoint in the stunning blue town of Chefchaouen, Morocco, where nature meets culture.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found in the simplest of places.

Next on our list was Darb Limoun, a vibrant area known for its narrow, winding alleys and intense blue hues. Walking through Darb Limoun felt like stepping into a dream. Every corner was a photo opportunity, with intricate doorways, colorful textiles, and charming artisan shops vying for attention. I couldn't resist buying a few small souvenirs, including a hand-painted ceramic bowl and a intricately designed metal lantern. Lena found a beautiful handwoven scarf, the perfect accessory to remember our time in Chefchaouen.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Darb Limoun in Chefchaouen, where Moroccan culture and breathtaking landscapes come together.

We then made our way to Bab El Ain, one of the main entrances to the Chefchaouen Medina. This historic gate marks the dividing point between the colonial side of Chefchaouen and the old town. The gate itself was beautiful, and the area around it was bustling with activity. Food vendors lined the streets, selling everything from fresh fruit to grilled meats. I tried a piece of cactus fruit, which was surprisingly refreshing.


Experience the magic of Bab El Ain, a historical landmark in Chefchaouen, where vibrant culture and stunning architecture come together.

For lunch, we headed to Tissemlal, a restaurant recommended for its traditional Moroccan dishes. The restaurant was located within the Casa Hassan Hotel, and it had a lovely terrace with panoramic views. I ordered a chicken tagine with olives and lemons, while Lena chose a vegetarian couscous. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The owner, Hassan, even stopped by our table to chat and share some insights about the local culture.


Savor authentic Moroccan cuisine at Tissemlal in Chefchaouen - a culinary journey into the heart of Morocco's flavors.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at a Chefchaouen copper and lamps shop. I've always been fascinated by the intricate designs of Moroccan lamps, and I wanted to find a unique piece to bring back to Berlin. The shop was filled with a dazzling array of handcrafted copper items, from ornate lamps to delicate tea sets. I ended up buying a stunning copper lamp with colorful glass panels, which I think Lena will love when I bring it home.


Explore the enchanting Copper and Lamps Shop in Chefchaouen for exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship and unique souvenirs.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to The Magic Lamp House of Aladin for dinner. This restaurant is known for its delicious tajine dishes and stunning views of the city. We arrived just in time to catch the sunset, which painted the blue walls in shades of orange and pink. I ordered a lamb tagine with apricots and almonds, while Lena opted for a vegetable tagine with chickpeas and raisins. The food was flavorful and comforting, and the atmosphere was magical.


Experience the magic of Moroccan cuisine blended with delightful chocolate creations at The Magic Lamp House of Aladin in Targha.

Reflecting on the day, I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience Chefchaouen's unique charm. From the panoramic views at Hero Eagle to the vibrant alleys of Darb Limoun and the historic significance of Bab El Ain, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. Tomorrow, we're off to Tetouan to explore the Tetuan Modern Art Center, Tetouan's old Medina map, and the Archeological Museum. It's going to be another adventure, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

The day was a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for Chefchaouen's unique character. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, eager to uncover more of Morocco's hidden treasures. I made a mental note to buy a travel adapter, since I keep forgetting to charge my phone and camera! That said, I'm grateful to be sharing this experience with my best friend and wife.

Exploring Chefchaouen's copper and lamps shops was an experience in itself. The craftsmanship was incredible, and the designs were so intricate. I loved seeing the artisans at work, shaping the metal with such skill and precision. It was a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that permeates every aspect of Moroccan life. And Lena was very happy with the handwoven scarf I got her from Darb Limoun, so all in all, it was a great day.

I know I'll remember this day fondly, not just for the beautiful sights and delicious food, but for the sense of connection I felt with the local culture. Chefchaouen has a way of slowing you down, inviting you to savor the moment and appreciate the simple things in life. And that's something I'll carry with me long after I leave this blue-washed paradise. I should probably get going and get some rest, because tomorrow we leave for Tetouan, and I've heard that the Tetuan Modern Art Center is a must-see! I'm excited to see what artistic treasures await us there.

As I sit here writing this, the sounds of Chefchaouen slowly fading into the night, I can't help but smile. Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new cultures, connecting with new people, and discovering new parts of yourself. And in that regard, Chefchaouen has truly exceeded all expectations. Good night, everyone! Until tomorrow.

Restaurant Reviews

Restaurant Triana

Restaurant Triana offers a delightful culinary experience with its Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. The homey decor and lovely atmosphere create a relaxed setting for guests. While some reviewers note that it may not be highly rated by Google users, the restaurant provides a pleasant dining experience with attentive service and reasonable prices.

Tissemlal

Tissemlal, located in Casa Hassan Hotel, is known for its fantastic traditional Moroccan dishes. The restaurant offers a choice between a cozy downstairs area with a fireplace and an inviting terrace with stunning views. Guests praise the excellent and affordable food, multilingual staff, great owner, and brilliant ambiance. It's highly recommended for a romantic and memorable dining experience.

The Magic Lamp House of Aladin

The Magic Lamp House of Aladin is a popular restaurant in Chefchaouen, offering delicious Moroccan cuisine and stunning views of the city. Visitors recommend trying the juicy chicken tajine with caramelized onions and raisins over spiced couscous, especially during lunch or at sunset. The restaurant provides fantastic service and a well-ventilated terrace with panoramic views.

Attraction Overviews

Hero Eagle

Hero Eagle is a local landmark in Chefchaouen that provides a fantastic vantage point overlooking the city. While it may not be a grand monument, it offers breathtaking views of the blue-washed buildings cascading down the hillside and the Rif Mountains in the backdrop. It's an excellent spot for capturing the essence of Chefchaouen's beauty.

Darb Limoun

Darb Limoun is a vibrant area in Chefchaouen known for its narrow, winding alleys and intense blue hues. Walking through Darb Limoun feels like stepping into a dream, with every corner offering photo opportunities. The area is filled with intricate doorways, colorful textiles, and charming artisan shops, making it a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of Chefchaouen.

Bab El Ain

Bab El Ain is one of the main entrances to the Chefchaouen Medina, marking the dividing point between the colonial side of Chefchaouen and the old town. This historic gate is surrounded by bustling activity, with food vendors lining the streets and offering a taste of local flavors. The gate itself is a beautiful architectural landmark and a perfect starting point for exploring the old medina.