Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

Sunday Serenity in the Blue City

Today was a day for wandering, for letting Chefchaouen unfold at its own pace. It’s funny how a place can seep into your soul, even after just a few days. I woke up this morning feeling utterly content, ready to embrace whatever the day held in this blue-washed wonderland.

Our first stop was Mounir Food for breakfast. I’d read mixed reviews, but I'm always up for trying a place myself. It turned out to be a great start to the day! The omelette was delicious, and Jean-Pierre even enjoyed a Moroccan pancake, despite some reviews saying they were dry. I found the staff incredibly friendly, and the prices were definitely budget-friendly. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you're getting a real taste of local life, not just tourist fare.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Mounir Food in Chefchaouen - a must-visit for food lovers seeking halal delights.

Fuelled up, we decided to explore Park Sidi Abdelhamid. It was such a lovely contrast to the bustling medina. The park was filled with locals enjoying a lazy Sunday morning – families picnicking, kids playing, and couples strolling hand-in-hand. It’s a beautiful green space, and it was nice to get away from the winding alleyways for a bit and just breathe in the fresh air. I even saw a few people jogging on the track – maybe I’ll be inspired to join them tomorrow!


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

From the park, we made our way to Plaza Mohammed V. This plaza feels like the heart of the 'new' Chefchaouen, a vibrant hub connecting to the old medina. Surrounded by gardens, it’s crowned by the Moulay Ali Ben Rachid Mosque. While the mosque isn’t open to non-Muslims, the square itself was bustling with activity. I loved seeing the blend of modern life with the traditional blue-washed buildings in the background.


Explore the vibrant beauty of Plaza Mohammed V in Chefchaouen, where culture, nature, and relaxation meet in a picturesque Moroccan setting.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing them fully, embracing the rhythm of local life.

Lunch at Restaurant Morisco was a real treat. We snagged a table on their rooftop terrace, which offered stunning views of Plaza Uta el-Hammam and the Kasbah. I opted for a traditional tagine, and Jean-Pierre went for the grilled fish. Both were delicious, and the view made it even better. The service was efficient and friendly, and we spent a leisurely hour just soaking it all in.


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

After lunch, it was time for a little retail therapy. I had heard about Jabir shop, and since I was looking for a few small gifts to bring back home to Lyon, we headed over. It was indeed a lovely shop. The owner was incredibly kind and helpful, and he didn't put any pressure on us to buy anything, which I really appreciated. I found a few beautiful trinkets – a hand-painted bowl and some fragrant spices – perfect little reminders of our time in Chefchaouen. I also picked up some beautifully scented soaps.


Explore Jabir Shop in Chefchaouen for unique Moroccan gifts and souvenirs that embody the spirit of the blue city.

As the afternoon wore on, we found ourselves drawn back to the medina. There’s just something so captivating about wandering through those blue alleyways. We got gloriously lost, of course, but that’s half the fun. Every corner turned revealed a new photo opportunity, a new artisan shop, or a new smiling face. We stumbled upon hidden courtyards overflowing with flowers, and tiny cafes where locals were sipping mint tea and playing cards.

Dinner tonight was at Restaurant Hajji. It was a charming spot, and I was excited to try their traditional Moroccan dishes. I ordered the tagine, and Jean-Pierre chose the grilled steak. While he found the steak a bit bland, I enjoyed my tagine. It was a cozy way to end the day, surrounded by the warm atmosphere of the restaurant.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Hajji in Chefchaouen – where every dish tells a story of local tradition.

As I sit here writing this, I’m already thinking about tomorrow. We’re planning to visit the Kasbah and Bab El Ain. I’m particularly excited to explore the Kasbah, with its beautiful gardens and fascinating history. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll try to find that hiking trail I spotted near Park Sidi Abdelhamid. For now, though, I’m content to let the sounds of Chefchaouen lull me to sleep, dreaming of blue alleyways and mint tea.

Being here with friends has made this experience even more special. Sharing these moments, laughing together as we navigate the maze-like streets, and discovering hidden gems – it's what travel is all about. I'm so grateful for their company and the memories we're creating together.

“To travel is to take a journey into yourself.” I'm not sure who said that, but it rings true tonight. Chefchaouen is more than just a pretty picture; it's a place that invites you to slow down, to connect with the local culture, and to appreciate the simple things in life. And sometimes, that's exactly what you need.

Tomorrow, we explore more of Chefchaouen's history and perhaps find a new favorite spot for mint tea. Until then, goodnight from the Blue Pearl!