Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Embracing the Blue: A Day in Chefchaouen

Today was everything I imagined and more. Chefchaouen, the famed Blue Pearl of Morocco, has completely captivated me. From the moment I stepped into the medina, I felt like I was walking through a dream, a canvas painted in a thousand shades of blue. The air is different here, calmer, and the people are so warm and welcoming. Jean-Pierre and I spent the day exploring, tasting, and simply soaking in the unique atmosphere of this magical place.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Assaada. I had heard wonderful things about their traditional Moroccan breakfast, and it did not disappoint. We sat outside, enjoying the crisp morning air and the bustling sounds of the medina coming to life. I savored every bite of the freshly baked bread, accompanied by local honey and a strong, sweet mint tea. Jean-Pierre, ever the adventurous one, tried a traditional soup and declared it the perfect start to our day. The owner was so kind, making sure we had everything we needed. It's these small, personal touches that make traveling so special. It reminded me of the warm hospitality I experienced growing up in Miarinarivo.

After breakfast, we joined a guided tour with Blue Medina Tours. I really wanted to delve deeper into the history and culture of Chefchaouen, and I'm so glad we did. Our guide, whose name I unfortunately can't recall, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about his city. He led us through the labyrinthine streets, sharing stories and anecdotes that brought the blue walls to life. I learned about the various theories behind the city's distinctive color palette, from practical reasons like keeping the buildings cool, to more spiritual explanations related to Jewish traditions.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant blue hues of Chefchaouen, where culture and beauty blend seamlessly in Morocco's enchanting mountain town.

We wandered past artisan workshops, where craftsmen were busy creating intricate metalwork, colorful textiles, and of course, the famous blue-hued pottery. I couldn't resist buying a small, hand-painted bowl as a souvenir. It will be a perfect reminder of this enchanting place when we return to Montreal. The tour also took us to some of the hidden gems of the medina, places I never would have found on my own. It was fascinating to see how the locals lived, worked, and interacted with each other. The sense of community here is so strong, so different from the anonymity of city life. I felt a pang of nostalgia for the close-knit community I grew up in.

The true beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its captivating blue hues, but in the warmth and authenticity of its people and their traditions.

For lunch, we decided to try Chez Hicham. This restaurant, recommended by our guide, offered a stunning view of the Place Outa el Hammam. We shared a delicious tagine, savoring the rich flavors of the slow-cooked meat and vegetables. Jean-Pierre was particularly impressed with the Moroccan salad, declaring it one of the best he'd ever had. I enjoyed watching the bustling square below, observing the locals going about their daily lives. Children played, vendors hawked their wares, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation. It was a vibrant, colorful scene, a microcosm of Moroccan life.

In the afternoon, we ventured to Ras El Ma, the source of fresh water that flows from the mountains behind Chefchaouen. The walk there was a bit of a climb, but the scenery was well worth the effort. As we approached, we could hear the sound of rushing water, a welcome respite from the noise of the medina. Ras El Ma is a popular spot for locals, who come to wash clothes, collect water, and relax by the stream. It was a refreshing oasis, a place where we could connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of the town. I watched as women skillfully scrubbed clothes on the rocks, their laughter echoing through the air. Jean-Pierre took some amazing photos, capturing the beauty of the waterfalls and the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape.


Experience the serene beauty of Ras El Ma, a tranquil oasis in Chefchaouen, where nature and Moroccan culture blend seamlessly for a perfect escape.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Mandala. This restaurant, known for its fusion of Moroccan and international cuisine, had been highly recommended. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the food was absolutely delicious. I opted for a traditional Moroccan dish, while Jean-Pierre, craving something familiar, chose a pizza. We shared a bottle of local wine, toasting to our wonderful day in Chefchaouen. The service was impeccable, and the staff made us feel right at home.


Experience unique pizza flavors in Chefchaouen's enchanting atmosphere at Mandala – where Moroccan tradition meets culinary creativity.

Before heading back to Hotel Barcelona, we stopped by Cafe Clock for a nightcap. This lively cafe, known for its live music and cultural events, was the perfect place to end our day. We sipped mint tea, listening to the sounds of traditional Moroccan music. The cafe was filled with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. I felt a sense of connection, a feeling of belonging to this special place. Jean-Pierre and I sat there for hours, talking and laughing, savoring the last moments of our day in Chefchaouen.


Experience the essence of Moroccan cuisine at Cafe Clock, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Chefchaouen.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I'm filled with gratitude. Chefchaouen has exceeded all my expectations. It's a place of beauty, history, and culture, a place where I feel truly alive. I'm so grateful to have shared this experience with Jean-Pierre, my partner in life and adventure. I am also glad that I didn’t forget my camera today; unlike my sun hat and extra memory card, I would have been devastated if I hadn’t been able to capture the beauty of Chefchaouen.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the City View Point for a panoramic view of Chefchaouen and explore El Mellah, the old Jewish quarter. I am eager to learn more about the Jewish heritage of this city and to discover new hidden gems. I also plan to do some shopping at Chefchaouen Crafts. But for now, I'm content to simply bask in the memories of today, dreaming of blue streets and warm Moroccan hospitality. Good night from Chefchaouen!

P.S. I must remember to try Restaurant Bab Kasaba for breakfast tomorrow – I’ve heard their Moroccan pancakes are divine! And I’m also looking forward to lunch at Sofia and dinner at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli. So many culinary adventures await!