Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen with Friends

Conquering Peaks and Palates in Chefchaouen

Today was a day of contrasts, pushing my physical limits with a challenging hike and then rewarding myself with the rich and diverse flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Chefchaouen, with its blue-washed buildings nestled against the Rif Mountains, offered the perfect backdrop for both adventure and culinary exploration. Lena, unfortunately, wasn't feeling up to the hike, so I ventured out with my friends, eager to see what the day had in store.

Our day began with an early breakfast at Amigo. The weather was crisp and clear, promising a beautiful day for hiking. Amigo, with its colorful mosaics, offered a cozy start. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with freshly baked bread, olives, and a flavorful tagine. It was the perfect fuel for the adventure ahead.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Amigo in Chefchaouen—where tradition meets flavor in a charming atmosphere.

After breakfast, we headed towards Parc National de Talassemtane, the starting point for our hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit. The park itself is stunning, a sprawling landscape of deep gorges, craggy cliffs, and forests of Moroccan fir. The air was fresh and clean, filled with the scent of pine and earth. As we started our ascent, the views of Chefchaouen became increasingly breathtaking, the blue city spreading out beneath us like a vibrant tapestry.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Parc National de Talassemtane, a hidden gem near Chefchaouen in Morocco.

The hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit was definitely a challenge. The trails were well-marked, but steep in places, requiring a good level of fitness. My friends and I pushed each other, taking breaks to catch our breath and admire the scenery. Along the way, we encountered local vegetation and even a few friendly locals, adding to the experience. I was glad I had remembered my comfortable walking shoes; I definitely needed them!

The journey to the summit was a testament to the beauty of perseverance, both in nature and in life.

The final ascent was particularly challenging, involving some scrambling over rocks, but the reward was more than worth it. Reaching the summit, we were greeted with panoramic views of Chefchaouen and the Rif Mountains. The world stretched out before us, an awe-inspiring vista of natural beauty. We spent a good while at the top, taking photos and simply soaking in the moment. It was a truly unforgettable experience.


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

After descending from Jebel El-Kelaa, we were all ravenous. We decided to have lunch at Chez Hicham. The restaurant offered a delightful menu of traditional Moroccan dishes, and we were eager to try as much as possible. I opted for the chicken tagine with lemon, while my friends chose the couscous and grilled meats. The food was absolutely delicious, each dish bursting with flavor and spices. The chicken tagine was particularly memorable, the chicken tender and succulent, infused with the tangy aroma of lemon.


Discover Chefchaouen's culinary gem: Chez Hicham - A blend of traditional Moroccan flavors and warm hospitality.

Following our satisfying lunch, we strolled through the medina, eventually finding ourselves at the Full Moon shop. Though I wasn't actively looking for anything in particular, I always enjoy browsing the local shops, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the craftsmanship. The Full Moon shop was filled with an eclectic mix of goods, from traditional Moroccan crafts to more modern souvenirs. I ended up buying a small, hand-painted ceramic bowl as a memento of our trip.


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

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Hôtel restaurant La fuente for dinner. We chose a table on the terrace, wanting to enjoy the last rays of sunlight and the stunning views of the town. The menu offered a mix of Moroccan and international dishes, and we all found something to our liking. I decided to try the local specialty, Kefta tagine, while my friends ordered grilled fish and pasta. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and convivial. It was the perfect way to end a day of adventure and exploration.


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

The weather forecast for tomorrow, our last day, indicates it will be partly sunny with temperatures in the mid-60s. We plan to visit the Chefchaouen Gate and Bab El Hammar, soaking in the last moments of this magical place. We'll have breakfast at Moulay Ali Ben Rached, lunch at Restaurant Jbaria, and a farewell dinner at Restaurant Dar El Salam. To cap off our trip, we'll visit Café Mundial for a final taste of Moroccan hospitality.

Today was a perfect blend of physical challenge and culinary delight. The hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit tested my limits and rewarded me with breathtaking views, while the meals at Amigo, Chez Hicham, and Hôtel restaurant La fuente tantalized my taste buds and immersed me in Moroccan culture. It's moments like these that make travel so enriching and rewarding. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, our last day in Chefchaouen, and the chance to explore even more of this enchanting blue city.

I am also reminded that I forgot to pack a raincoat and a power bank! I will make sure to have them on my next trip.

As I reflect on the day, I am reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And indeed, I feel like I have so much to share about this incredible journey. Chefchaouen has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to return someday.

Lena and I were discussing our next adventure just last night, and we're thinking of exploring Southeast Asia. Perhaps Thailand or Vietnam? The possibilities are endless!

Until tomorrow, goodbye from the Blue Pearl of Morocco!