Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

Gates and Goods: A Day in Chefchaouen

Today was all about soaking in the everyday life of Chefchaouen, wandering through its ancient gates and getting delightfully lost in its bustling markets. It's amazing how a simple change of scenery can invigorate the soul, and this blue city has certainly cast its spell on me.

Our day began, as most do here, with the gentle call to prayer echoing through the valleys. After a quick breakfast at our hotel, Jean-Pierre and I set out to explore. Our first stop was Bab el Mahrouk, one of the main entry points to the old city. It's more than just an archway; it's a vibrant threshold into the heart of Chefchaouen. The intricate tile work and the deep blue hues that frame the entrance are simply mesmerizing. I couldn't resist snapping a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place.


Discover the historical beauty of Bab el Mahrouk in Chefchaouen, where rich culture meets stunning architecture in the heart of Morocco.

Just a short walk from Bab el Mahrouk, we found ourselves at Bab Chaouen. Each gate tells a story, each a portal to a different facet of this captivating city. We paused, watching locals pass by, their faces etched with the stories of generations. It's these moments of observation that truly make a place come alive.


Explore the enchanting blue streets of Bab Chaouen, a picturesque Moroccan town where vibrant culture meets breathtaking mountain scenery.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing new perspectives.

For breakfast we headed to Restaurant Bab Kasaba. The rooftop dining area offered a stunning panoramic view, adding to the overall charm. I had a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen (pancakes) and mint tea, and Jean-Pierre opted for something similar. The service was excellent. Suleiman's service stood out, making our experience even better.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors in Chefchaouen at Restaurant Bab Kasaba - where culinary tradition meets breathtaking views.

After fueling up, we decided to dive into the heart of Chefchaouen's commercial spirit: the Chefchaouen copper and lamps shop. The 3-hour cooking class meeting point is at the Chefchaouen copper and lamps shop, located at 257 Onsar route Ras El Maa in Chefchaouen, Morocco. The shop was a treasure trove of handcrafted goods. The warm glow of the copper against the cool blue walls created a striking visual contrast. I was on the hunt for a unique souvenir, something that would remind me of our time here. I finally settled on a beautifully crafted copper lamp, its intricate design a testament to the skill of the local artisans.


Explore the enchanting Copper and Lamps Shop in Chefchaouen for exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship and unique souvenirs.

Lunch was at Restaurant Hamsa, known for its vegetarian options and rooftop terrace. The falafel plate was excellent, as were the freshly made juices and drinks. The rooftop offered lovely views over the main square. I sampled the falafels and hummus, with some mint tea. It was a delightful spot to relax and recharge before continuing our explorations.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and delightful teas at Restaurant Hamsa in Chefchaouen's charming blue city.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Restaurant blue dream for dinner. Although not as widely known, it was a delightful culinary haven that truly captured the essence of Moroccan cuisine. Diners rave about the shrimp tagine and vegetable couscous. The casual and cozy atmosphere made it the perfect spot to wind down after a day of exploring.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Blue Dream in Chefchaouen's stunning blue streets.

I'm starting to feel like a local here in Chefchaouen! The shopkeepers recognize me, and I'm even starting to haggle with a bit more confidence. It's a far cry from my days in Lyon, where my biggest concern was finding the perfect baguette. Speaking of Lyon, I miss my little apartment and the familiar cobblestone streets, but this adventure is exactly what I needed to shake things up.

I can't help but think about tomorrow's itinerary. We're planning to visit Hero Eagle and go on a tour with Blue Medina Tours. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of enjoying a sunset at sunset, hopefully with a refreshing drink in hand. It sounds like the perfect way to cap off another day in this enchanting blue city.

It's funny how travel can change you. Before this trip, I was so caught up in the routine of daily life – work, home, repeat. Now, I feel more alive, more connected, and more inspired than ever before. And to think, this is only day eight! I can't wait to see what the rest of our adventure holds. I am so glad Jean-Pierre is sharing this experience with me. He is also enjoying getting lost in the souks and experiencing the local culture, even though he does miss his software engineering work.

As I sit here writing, the sounds of Chefchaouen slowly fade into the night. The air is cool and crisp, and the stars are beginning to peek out from behind the mountains. It's moments like these that make me realize how lucky I am to be able to experience the world, one blue-washed street at a time. Goodnight from Chefchaouen!

Tomorrow, we explore more of Chefchaouen, including Hero Eagle and ending the day with sunset drinks. I can't wait!