Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen

A Saturday Stroll Through the Blue Pearl

Today was all about getting lost, and I mean that in the best possible way. Chefchaouen has this magical way of pulling you in, inviting you to wander without a plan, and rewarding you with unexpected beauty at every turn. Jean-Pierre and I decided to dedicate the day to simply experiencing the Chefchaouen Medina, letting our feet guide us through the labyrinthine streets.

We started our day with a leisurely breakfast at Hotel Dar Mounir, savoring the fresh Moroccan bread and mint tea. Energized and ready for exploration, we stepped out into the morning sun, which cast a warm glow on the blue-washed walls. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city air of Lyon. I grabbed my camera, Jean-Pierre adjusted his sunglasses (I really need to remember to pack mine!), and we set off to explore the Chefchaouen Medina.


Discover the enchanting Hotel Dar Mounir in Chefchaouen, where comfort meets culture, and unforgettable experiences await every traveler.
The Medina here is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. It’s not just a market or a historical center; it’s a living, breathing work of art. The varying shades of blue create a sense of calm and wonder, and every corner seems to offer a new photo opportunity. I found myself snapping pictures of everything – doorways, winding staircases, children playing, and the intricate patterns of the traditional crafts on display. Jean-Pierre, ever the patient one, simply smiled and followed along, occasionally pointing out a particularly interesting detail or helping me navigate the steeper steps.

Our first real destination was Rue Ibn Asskar, one of the Medina's most famous streets. It's a bustling thoroughfare lined with shops selling everything from colorful textiles to handcrafted leather goods. We stopped to admire the vibrant displays, and I couldn't resist buying a beautiful handwoven scarf as a souvenir. The shopkeeper, a friendly Berber woman, told us about the history of the craft and the traditions passed down through generations. It’s these little interactions that make traveling so enriching – connecting with people and learning about their lives and culture.


Discover the beauty of Chefchaouen, Morocco's blue city, with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant local markets.

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its blue walls, but in the warmth and authenticity of its people.

As we continued our walk, we stumbled upon Jamaa, a charming square that seemed to be the heart of the local community. Families were gathered, children were playing football, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation. We sat on a bench for a while, simply soaking in the atmosphere and watching the world go by. It was a perfect moment of peaceful immersion, a reminder of why we travel – to experience life in all its diverse forms.


Experience the charm of Chefchaouen, Morocco's blue city, where every corner reveals stunning views and rich cultural experiences.
By lunchtime, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we decided to find a place to eat. After consulting my trusty travel guidebook, we chose RESTAURANT CASA ANDALUZ. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Medina, it looked inviting with its traditional décor and cozy atmosphere. We ordered a tagine and some couscous, and the food was absolutely delicious. The flavors were rich and complex, a perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients. Jean-Pierre, who is always up for trying new things, even sampled a local delicacy – sheep’s head! I politely declined, but he assured me it was surprisingly tasty.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Casa Andaluz in Chefchaouen - where flavor meets breathtaking views.
After lunch, we continued our exploration, getting delightfully lost in the maze of narrow streets. We discovered hidden courtyards, tiny workshops, and breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the Rif Mountains. At one point, we found ourselves completely turned around, but a friendly local offered to guide us back to the main square. It’s this sense of community and hospitality that makes Chefchaouen so special.

As the afternoon wore on, we started to feel a bit weary, so we decided to stop for a drink at Café Mundial. This popular café is known for its lively atmosphere and stunning views, and it didn't disappoint. We ordered some refreshing mint tea and sat on the terrace, watching the sun slowly set over the blue city. The sky was ablaze with color, a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience the heart of Chefchaouen at Café Mundial, where Moroccan culture meets delightful café ambiance in a picturesque setting.
For dinner, we opted for HERMANOS, a restaurant known for blending traditional Moroccan dishes with fast food options. I was in the mood for something familiar, so I had a delicious kefta tagine. Jean-Pierre, went for a kebab. The food was satisfying, and the ambiance was relaxed and welcoming.


Discover Hermanos: A culinary oasis in Chefchaouen offering traditional Moroccan dishes alongside convenient fast food options.
Before heading back to our hotel, we made one last stop at Restaurant Jbaria for a light evening snack. It was a quieter spot, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. We shared a plate of Moroccan pastries and sipped on some sweet mint tea, savoring the last moments of our Chefchaouen adventure.


Discover the authentic taste of Morocco at Restaurant Jbaria in Chefchaouen—where every dish tells a story.
As we walked back to Hotel Dar Mounir, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Chefchaouen had exceeded all my expectations, captivating me with its beauty, its culture, and its people. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, when we plan to visit Boulevard Mohamed V and Place El Haouta, before visiting the Tetuan Modern Art Center. I am also excited to see what treasures I can find at the Jabir shop chefchaouen.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Chefchaouen, including Boulevard Mohamed V and Place El Haouta. I’m particularly excited about visiting the Tetuan Modern Art Center, as I’ve heard it has a fascinating collection of contemporary Moroccan art. And of course, no trip to Chefchaouen would be complete without a bit of souvenir shopping, so we’ll definitely be stopping by Jabir shop chefchaouen. I have a feeling my suitcase is going to be quite full by the time we leave!

But for now, it’s time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in the Blue Pearl. Goodnight from Chefchaouen!