Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Finding Paradise at Akchour Waterfalls

Today, Jean-Pierre and I ventured beyond the blue walls of Chefchaouen and into the heart of the Rif Mountains. We were on a mission to discover the famed Akchour Waterfalls, a natural wonder I'd been eagerly anticipating since planning our trip. Little did we know, this day would be a beautiful blend of challenging hikes, stunning vistas, and a true immersion into Morocco's natural beauty.

The morning started early. After a quick breakfast at Hotel Dar Mounir, we made our way to the edge of the medina to catch a *grand taxi* – a shared taxi – to Akchour. The ride itself was an experience, winding through the rugged landscape, offering glimpses of rural Moroccan life. The cost was quite reasonable, about $2.50 USD each, and took around 30 minutes. I couldn't help but think about how different this was from my usual commute in Lyon! I was so glad Jean-Pierre was with me to experience this, someone to share these memories with.


Discover the enchanting Hotel Dar Mounir in Chefchaouen, where comfort meets culture, and unforgettable experiences await every traveler.

Finally, we arrived at Akchour, a small village that serves as the gateway to the waterfalls. The air was noticeably fresher here, a welcome change from the bustling streets of Chefchaouen. We passed a few small cafes and market stalls as we made our way to the trailhead. The vendors were selling everything from fresh orange juice to handcrafted souvenirs, a tempting preview of the treasures that awaited us.

The hike began innocently enough, a gentle incline along a well-worn path. The trail followed the river, and the sound of rushing water was a constant companion. The sun was shining, and the temperature was just right, making it perfect for hiking. I was grateful I had packed my comfortable walking shoes – a lesson learned from previous travels!

The journey is as beautiful as the destination.

As we ventured deeper into the mountains, the landscape transformed into something truly magical. Lush greenery enveloped us, moss-covered rocks lined the riverbanks, and the air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth. I felt like I had stepped into a fairytale. Jean-Pierre, ever the photographer, was in his element, snapping photos of every picturesque scene.

We soon reached a fork in the trail – one path leading to the *Petit Cascade* (Small Waterfall) and the other to the Grande Cascade (Big Waterfall). We opted for the latter, knowing it would be a more challenging hike but promising a more rewarding view. According to my research, the hike to the Grand Cascade takes approximately 2-3 hours to reach. The trail became steeper and rockier, requiring a bit more effort. There were a few river crossings, which added an element of adventure. Luckily, there were large cement blocks and wooden bridges to help us keep our feet dry.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Grande Cascade D'akchour, a tranquil natural preserve near Chefchaouen, rich in waterfalls and stunning landscapes.

Along the way, we encountered several small cafes and refreshment stands. It was amazing to see how the locals had set up these little oases in the middle of the wilderness. We stopped at one for a refreshing glass of mint tea, a perfect pick-me-up before continuing our ascent. The tea was served in traditional Moroccan glasses, and the vendor was incredibly friendly, sharing stories about the region.

The final stretch of the hike was the most challenging, a steep climb over uneven terrain. But the anticipation of seeing the *Grande Cascade* kept us going. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we heard it – the thunderous roar of cascading water. As we rounded the final bend, the waterfall came into view, and it was even more spectacular than I had imagined.

The *Grande Cascade* was a powerful column of water plunging down a sheer rock face into a crystal-clear pool below. The mist from the waterfall created a refreshing spray, and the surrounding air was cool and invigorating. We spent a good hour simply admiring the view, taking photos, and soaking in the atmosphere. It was truly a breathtaking sight, a testament to the power and beauty of nature. I felt so grateful to be there, experiencing this with Jean-Pierre.

After our fill of the *Grande Cascade*, we began the descent back to Akchour. The hike down was much easier, and we made good time. By the time we reached the village, we were both exhausted but exhilarated.

Before heading back to Chefchaouen, we decided to treat ourselves to a late lunch at Chez Aziz, one of the restaurants near the trailhead. We sat at a table with our feet dangling in the cool river, enjoying a delicious tagine and reflecting on our adventure. The tagine was flavorful and satisfying, a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience the fusion of traditional Moroccan cuisine and international flavors at Chez Aziz in Chefchaouen.

As the sun began to set, we caught another *grand taxi* back to Chefchaouen. The ride was quiet, both of us lost in our thoughts, reliving the memories of the day. Back in Chefchaouen, we decided to celebrate our successful hike with a drink at Sunset at Sunset, a bar known for its panoramic views. Sipping on fresh orange juice, we watched as the blue city transformed into a canvas of orange and pink hues.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Chefchaouen at 'Sunset at sunset', where breathtaking views meet serene relaxation.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Chefchaouen itself, visiting *Bab El Ain*, admiring the colorful tiles (*Tuiles colorées*), and delving into the history of the *Kasbah*. But for now, I'm content to bask in the glow of today's adventure, grateful for the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Akchour Waterfalls.

Today was a reminder that sometimes the best experiences are found off the beaten path, away from the crowds and the tourist traps. It was a day of physical exertion, natural beauty, and shared moments with the one I love. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I know that the memories of Akchour Waterfalls will stay with me long after we leave Morocco. I wouldn't have wanted to experience this with anyone else but Jean-Pierre, my rock and adventure buddy.

The weather in Chefchaouen in July is typically warm, with average daily high temperatures around 30°C (86°F). The days are sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, it's important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, as the sun can be intense. The evenings are cooler, providing a welcome respite from the heat.

I am so glad I didn't forget my camera, it would have been a disaster not capturing all of the memorable scenes, even though I did forget my sunglasses. Oh well, another thing to add to my list of forgotten travel essentials!

The Akchour Waterfalls are definitely a hidden gem worth exploring. If you ever find yourself in Chefchaouen, be sure to set aside a day for this unforgettable adventure.