Enchanting Blue Streets of Chefchaouen: A Moroccan Adventure with Friends

A Day in the Azure Embrace of Chefchaouen

Today was a day of complete immersion in the captivating blue city of Chefchaouen. From guided tours through the labyrinthine medina to the soothing sounds of Ras El Ma's cascades and the tantalizing aromas of Moroccan cuisine, every moment was a sensory delight. It was a day where the city's charm seeped into our souls, leaving us with memories we will cherish long after we leave its azure embrace.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Tissemlal. The cozy atmosphere and traditional Moroccan dishes were the perfect start to our Chefchaouen adventure. I opted for the local ftour beldi, a delightful mix of goat cheese, olive oil, eggs, and cheese. It was a delicious and authentic way to fuel up for a day of exploration. Aisha was a bit hesitant with the goat cheese initially, but Hans encouraged her to try it, and she ended up enjoying the unique flavors.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Tissemlal in Chefchaouen - a culinary gem nestled amidst stunning landscapes.

Exploring the Blue Medina

Our morning was dedicated to exploring the famed Blue Medina with a guided tour. Navigating the maze-like streets of Chefchaouen is an experience in itself, but having a knowledgeable guide truly enriched our understanding of the city's history and culture. The tour was arranged by 'Blue Medina Tours'. Our guide led us through the winding alleys, each turn revealing a new vista of blue-washed buildings. I learned that the tradition of painting the buildings blue is believed to have originated from the Jewish community who settled here in the 15th century, with the color representing the sky and a connection to God.


Explore Chefchaouen's vibrant blue streets and rich culture with Blue Medina Tours for an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.

The architecture was fascinating, a blend of Moroccan and Andalusian styles. The narrow streets, designed to provide shade and respite from the summer heat, created a cool and calming atmosphere. I couldn't resist capturing the beauty with my camera, framing each shot to capture the unique play of light and shadow on the blue walls. Hans, ever the patient husband, carried my camera bag and kept Aisha entertained with stories of the city's history. As a cultural liaison, I found myself drawn to the intricate details of the buildings, the ornate doorways, and the vibrant colors that adorned every corner. I was particularly fascinated by the kasbahs, ancient fortresses that offered panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Rif Mountains.

To walk through Chefchaouen is to step into a living painting, where every shade of blue tells a story of history, culture, and serene beauty.

Aisha was particularly fascinated by the cats that seemed to be everywhere in the Medina. She named each one she saw and insisted on taking photos with them. It was a delightful reminder of the simple joys of travel through a child's eyes.

Ras El Ma: A Refreshing Oasis

After our Medina tour, we sought respite at Ras El Ma, a spring at the eastern end of the city. The walk to Ras El Ma was a refreshing change of scenery. As we approached, the sound of rushing water grew louder, a welcome contrast to the bustling Medina. Ras El Ma, which translates to Head of the Water in Arabic, is where fresh mountain water flows into the town, creating a tranquil oasis. The area was bustling with locals washing clothes and children playing in the cool water. I watched as women expertly scrubbed fabrics against the rocks, their laughter echoing through the air. We sat by the stream, dangling our feet in the water and enjoying the refreshing spray. Aisha, of course, couldn't resist getting completely soaked, much to Hans' amusement. The verdant hills surrounding the spring provided a stunning backdrop, a reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds Chefchaouen. I captured a few shots of the small cascades downstream, the water glistening in the afternoon sun.


Experience the natural beauty and cultural charm of Ras El Ma in Chefchaouen, a serene oasis perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst stunning landscapes.

Ras El Ma is not just a source of water; it's a social hub, a place where locals gather to share stories and connect with one another. I felt a sense of community here, a feeling of being welcomed into the heart of Chefchaouen's daily life. It was a humbling experience, a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with the people who call those places home.

A Culinary Journey Through Chefchaouen

Lunch was at Le Coin, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Moroccan dishes. The restaurant had a cozy interior with traditional décor, and the staff greeted us with warm smiles. I decided to try their famous tagine, a slow-cooked stew with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of sweet and savory. Hans opted for a pizza, while Aisha enjoyed a simple pasta dish. The mint tea, a local favorite, was the perfect accompaniment to our meal.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Le Coin, nestled in Chefchaouen's vibrant blue streets.

In the afternoon, while Hans and Aisha took a break at the hotel, I ventured out to Jabir shop chefchaouen. I wanted to find some unique souvenirs to take back home to Bamberg. The shop was a treasure trove of handmade items, from stunning pottery to intricate textiles and vibrant local art. The owner, Jabir, was incredibly welcoming, sharing stories about the products and the artisans who created them. I purchased a beautiful ceramic tagine and a hand-woven scarf, each item a reminder of my time in Chefchaouen. Jabir told me the shop is open every day, allowing visitors ample opportunity to explore its offerings. I found it to be an essential stop on my Moroccan adventure.


Explore Jabir Shop in Chefchaouen for unique Moroccan gifts and an authentic shopping experience in the heart of the blue city.

Before dinner, I took a moment to reflect on my experiences. I thought about my life back in Bamberg, my work at the museum, and the quiet rhythm of our days. This trip to Chefchaouen was a welcome change, a chance to immerse myself in a different culture and reconnect with my love for travel. I smiled, grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

Dinner was at Restaurant Morisco, located in the bustling Outa el Hammam square. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, with both Moroccan and Italian dishes on the menu. We sat on the rooftop terrace, enjoying the stunning views of the city as the sun began to set. I ordered a Moroccan-style chicken dish, while Hans chose a barbecue dish. Aisha, predictably, opted for pasta. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect. It was a wonderful way to end a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Morisco in Chefchaouen, where culinary tradition meets modern dining.

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Chefchaouen had exceeded all my expectations. Its beauty, culture, and warmth had captivated me. I knew that this was a place I would never forget.

Tomorrow's Plans

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Plaza Uta el Hamman and the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen. I'm particularly excited about the museum, as it will give me a deeper understanding of the region's history and traditions. We will also have breakfast at Café & restaurant Meftah, lunch at Restaurant Triana and dinner at Bab Souk. And perhaps, if time permits, we'll enjoy a drink at Restaurant Bar Chaouen.

Until tomorrow, dear readers, may your own travels be filled with beauty, discovery, and unforgettable moments.

I’m so glad I remembered to pack my camera, even though I forgot my sunglasses! Every corner of this city is a photo opportunity.

I am excited to learn more about the local culture tomorrow, especially at the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen. I hope Aisha enjoys it too!

I am also looking forward to trying new restaurants tomorrow; Café & restaurant Meftah for breakfast, Restaurant Triana for lunch, and Bab Souk for dinner.

The hotel is lovely and offers a peaceful retreat after a long day of exploring. Hans and Aisha are already fast asleep, dreaming of blue streets and mountain springs. I, however, am wide awake, eager to share my experiences with you, my dear readers. I truly cherish my time to write.

I am so looking forward to seeing what tomorrow brings!

Good night from Chefchaouen!