Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

A Blue Beginning

After a smooth flight from Bonn to Tangier and a scenic drive with my friends, I've finally arrived in Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl of Morocco! I’m so excited to share my first impressions of this enchanting town. It's a sensory explosion, a visual feast, and I can already tell this journey will be one for the books. I’m eager to explore every nook and cranny, and I hope you’ll join me as I uncover the secrets of this captivating place.

Our first stop was the iconic Chefchaouen Gate. It’s more than just an entrance; it’s a portal into another world. The gate itself is impressive, but what struck me most was the immediate immersion into the town’s distinctive blue hue. It felt like stepping into a painting, with every shade imaginable adorning the buildings around us. Andreas was immediately snapping photos, trying to capture the magic, while I just stood there, soaking it all in. The air was filled with the murmur of languages, the scent of spices, and the promise of adventure. This gate, also known as Bab Souk, is the largest and most imposing of all the city gates. It is called Bab Souk because there used to be two souks, markets, in Chefchaouen.


Experience the magic of Chefchaouen Gate, an iconic entryway into the stunning blue city of Chefchaouen, Morocco, rich in history and vibrant culture.
Next, we ventured into the heart of Chefchaouen, making our way to the Kasbah. This historic fortress stands as a testament to the town’s rich past. Built in the 15th century, the Kasbah once served as a stronghold against Portuguese incursions. Today, it’s a beautifully restored space where you can wander through lush gardens, climb ancient towers, and soak in panoramic views of the blue city. The Ethnographic Museum within the Kasbah offered a fascinating glimpse into local culture, showcasing traditional clothing, musical instruments, and artifacts. The entrance fee to the Kasbah is 6€ for foreign tourists.


Explore the historical Kasbah in Chefchaouen, a vibrant landmark rich in culture and stunning views of Morocco's scenic beauty.
After immersing ourselves in history, it was time for a culinary adventure. We stopped for breakfast at Cafe Clock. This charming cafe is nestled in the Houta area of Chefchaouen's historic medina. The space features vibrant blue walls that mirror the town's aesthetic, accented by traditional Moroccan tiles, vintage furnishings, and local artwork. The atmosphere was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the cafe’s delicious Moroccan fare. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea, olives, and freshly baked bread. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. Cafe Clock is known as a vibrant cultural hub that fosters community.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen, where every dish tells a story amidst vibrant culture.

Chefchaouen is a place where every corner holds a new discovery, a new story, and a new shade of blue to fall in love with.

Lunch was at Chez Hicham. This restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the warm November sun as we savored a flavorful tagine. The restaurant's decor, with its traditional Moroccan touches, added to the overall experience. Chez Hicham emphasizes the use of natural materials, such as wood and stone.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at Chez Hicham in Chefchaouen - your gateway to cultural immersion.
In the afternoon, we made our way to Ras El Ma. This natural spring is a source of life for Chefchaouen, providing fresh water to the town for centuries. The sound of the cascading water was incredibly soothing, and it was fascinating to see locals washing clothes and socializing by the stream. Ras El Ma translates to Head of the Water. The area was teeming with locals and tourists, all enjoying the refreshing atmosphere. It’s a short walk from Chefchaouen's central medina.


Experience the natural beauty and cultural charm of Ras El Ma in Chefchaouen, a serene oasis perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst stunning landscapes.
Of course, no trip to Chefchaouen would be complete without indulging in some retail therapy. I was eager to explore the local crafts. We spent a delightful hour browsing the shops, admiring the intricate pottery, vibrant textiles, and unique jewelry. I couldn’t resist purchasing a beautiful hand-woven rug as a souvenir. The aroma of traditional Moroccan spices filled the air, adding to the sensory experience. Chefchaouen is known for its woven cloth, wool, and leather products.


Discover the charm of Chefchaouen Crafts, where every handmade gift reflects the artistic heritage of Morocco's blue city.
As the sun began to set, we found ourselves at Restaurant Morisco for dinner. This restaurant is known for its traditional Moroccan dishes and stunning views of the city. We sat on the terrace, watching the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors as we dined on delicious tagine and couscous. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with music and laughter filling the air. The Morisco restaurant serves dishes specific to the region, including ftour beldi, a local breakfast of goat's cheese, eggs, and olive oil.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Morisco in Chefchaouen, where culinary tradition meets modern dining.
Today was an incredible introduction to Chefchaouen. The blue streets, the friendly people, the delicious food – it all exceeded my expectations. I’m already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures, which include a hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit and a visit to the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen. I can't wait to see what other treasures this enchanting town holds! I'm also excited to enjoy a sunset at a local bar.

Before I turn in for the night, I must admit I made a slight packing error. I completely forgot to bring an adapter for the Moroccan outlets! Luckily, Andreas had one, so we were able to charge our phones and cameras. I also realized I should have brought an extra memory card for my camera – I’m already running out of space with all the photos I’ve been taking!

Tomorrow, I plan to start the day with breakfast at Le Coin before our hike. I've heard they have amazing pastries and coffee, which will be the perfect fuel for our trek. Wish me luck!

Until tomorrow,
Maria