Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Serenity in the Blue Pearl

Today was a day of gentle exploration and quiet moments in Chefchaouen. After several days of bustling through the medina and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Jean-Pierre and I decided to take a slower pace, seeking out some of the town's lesser-known spots. It's funny how sometimes the most profound experiences come from simply wandering without a strict agenda, allowing the place to reveal itself to you.

Our morning started, as it often does, with the promise of Moroccan coffee and a hearty breakfast. We headed to Restaurant Morisco for our first meal of the day. The restaurant had a beautiful terrace, which gave us amazing views as we enjoyed our meal.


Discover flavorful Moroccan and Italian dishes at Restaurant Morisco in Chefchaouen - where culinary traditions meet affordability.

After breakfast, we decided to explore Bab El Hammar. We walked through the gate and took some photos. It was a beautiful sight to see.


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

Next on our list was Park Sidi Abdelhamid, a place I'd read about as a tranquil escape from the medina's lively energy. The walk there was a pleasant one, offering glimpses into local life away from the main tourist paths. As we approached the park, the air felt fresher, and the sounds of the city faded into a gentle hum.


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

The park itself was a welcome oasis of green. It wasn't a meticulously manicured garden, but rather a natural space with trees providing shade, and open areas inviting you to sit and simply be. We found a quiet bench and watched as local families enjoyed their afternoon. Children played, their laughter echoing through the trees, while older folks sat in groups, engaged in animated conversation.

  

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing them with all your senses and an open heart.

I took out my travel journal and jotted down some thoughts, reflecting on the contrast between the vibrant blue alleys of the medina and this serene green space. Jean-Pierre, ever the observer, was busy capturing the scene with his camera, trying to frame the essence of the park's peaceful atmosphere. I was missing my sun hat and the extra memory card for my camera today!

For lunch, we chose Café Restaurant Marisco Twins, enticed by its promise of traditional Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to sample the flavors of Chefchaouen. Jean-Pierre opted for a tagine, while I decided on couscous, a dish that always reminds me of home, in a way. The flavors were rich and comforting, the perfect fuel for an afternoon of further exploration. We enjoyed the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant as we ate our lunch.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine with a modern twist at Café Restaurant Marisco Twins in Chefchaouen's enchanting atmosphere.

As the afternoon progressed, we found ourselves drawn back to the medina, but this time with a different perspective. Instead of rushing through the alleys, we allowed ourselves to get lost, turning down narrow passages that we hadn't noticed before. We discovered hidden courtyards, each with its own unique charm, and small shops selling handicrafts and local products.

In one such shop, I found a beautiful hand-woven scarf, its colors mirroring the blue hues of the town. I couldn't resist buying it, a tangible reminder of our time in Chefchaouen. The shopkeeper, an elderly woman with kind eyes, shared a few words about the art of weaving, her hands telling stories of generations past. These are the moments I cherish most, the unexpected connections that remind you of the shared humanity that binds us all.

Before dinner, we stopped by Café Mundial for a refreshing drink. It was a great spot to relax and watch the world go by, soaking in the last rays of the afternoon sun. I enjoyed the beautiful view.


Experience the essence of Chefchaouen at Café Mundial, where delightful coffee meets a vibrant social scene in the heart of the blue city.

For our final meal of the day, we chose Restaurant Jbaria, recommended for its authentic Moroccan dishes and cozy atmosphere. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the soft glow of the town's lights. I decided to try the bissara, a traditional fava bean soup, while Jean-Pierre went for the lentils. Both dishes were delicious, hearty and full of flavor, a testament to the simple yet exquisite cuisine of Morocco. The portions were generous, and the fresh, high-quality bread was amazing. The service was laid-back, which added to the charm.


Discover the authentic taste of Morocco at Restaurant Jbaria in Chefchaouen—where every dish tells a story.

As we walked back to Hotel Barcelona, the town was quiet, the day's energy slowly fading away. I thought about tomorrow's itinerary, which includes a visit to Hero Eagle and Darb Limoun. I'm excited to see what those attractions hold in store for us. We may also do some shopping at the Chefchaouen copper and lamps shop.


Discover the charm of Chefchaouen at Hotel Barcelona, a cozy 3-star retreat in the heart of the Blue City, perfect for adventurous travelers.

Today was a reminder that travel isn't just about ticking off landmarks or following a rigid plan. It's about allowing yourself to be present, to embrace the unexpected, and to find beauty in the simplest of moments. It’s about connecting with the place and its people on a deeper level, and carrying those experiences with you long after you've left. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I know that the memories of today, the serenity of the park, the flavors of the local cuisine, and the warmth of the people we met, will stay with me for a long time to come.

Chefchaouen, you continue to surprise and enchant me, one blue hue at a time.

October is proving to be a comfortable time to visit Chefchaouen, with average temperatures ranging from 62°F to 84°F. We've had a mix of sunny and partly cloudy days, with a few instances of rain, so packing layers and an umbrella is definitely a good idea. The wind has been relatively calm, making it pleasant to explore the town on foot.