Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Romantic Getaway

First Impressions of the Blue Pearl

After months of anticipation, Lena and I finally arrived in Chefchaouen, the famed Blue Pearl of Morocco! The journey from Tangier was scenic, offering glimpses of the Rif Mountains. The air was crisp and carried the scent of distant spices as we stepped out of our transportation and into a world painted in a thousand shades of blue. I couldn't wait to point my camera at every corner.

Our first order of business was checking into Hotel Dar Mounir, a cozy retreat that promised an authentic Moroccan experience. The hotel was charming, with traditional décor and a welcoming atmosphere. After settling in, we were eager to dive straight into the heart of Chefchaouen: the Medina.


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

The Chefchaouen Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of narrow alleyways and vibrant blue buildings. It felt like stepping into a dream. Every corner turned revealed a new, picture-perfect scene. The soft October light cast long shadows, enhancing the depth of the blue hues. We wandered aimlessly, letting the Medina guide us, our senses overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells of Moroccan life.


Discover the beauty and tranquility of Chefchaouen Medina, Morocco's stunning blue city, where history and culture blend seamlessly amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Wandering through Chefchaouen felt like stepping into a living painting, where every shade of blue tells a story.

Our first stop was Café & restaurant Meftah for breakfast. We sat on a small terrace overlooking a bustling square. I ordered a traditional Moroccan breakfast of mint tea, bread, and olives. Lena opted for a strong coffee and a pastry. The mint tea was fragrant and sweet, the perfect start to our culinary exploration of Morocco. The service was friendly, setting the tone for the hospitality we would encounter throughout the day.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café & Restaurant Meftah in Chefchaouen - where culinary tradition meets breathtaking mountain views.

Fueled and ready, we continued our exploration, soon finding ourselves at the Kasbah. This historic fortress, with its ochre-colored walls, provided a striking contrast to the surrounding blue city. Inside, we discovered a tranquil Andalusian-style garden, a welcome respite from the bustling Medina. We climbed the tower for panoramic views of Chefchaouen, a sea of blue stretching out before us. It was a photographer's dream, and I snapped away, trying to capture the essence of this magical place. Lena, with her graphic designer's eye, admired the composition of colors and shapes, remarking on how the blue buildings seemed to blend seamlessly with the Rif Mountains in the distance.


Explore the historical Kasbah in Chefchaouen, a vibrant landmark rich in culture and stunning views of Morocco's scenic beauty.

Next on our list was Plaza Uta el Hamman, the heart of Chefchaouen. This bustling square is lined with cafes and restaurants, offering a perfect spot for people-watching. We soaked in the lively atmosphere, observing locals and tourists alike, all drawn to the charm of this central meeting place. Street musicians filled the air with traditional Moroccan melodies, adding to the vibrant ambiance. We decided to have lunch at Chez Hicham, a restaurant recommended for its Moroccan cuisine. I opted for the chicken tagine, while Lena chose a vegetarian couscous. The tagine was rich and flavorful, the chicken tender and infused with aromatic spices. Lena enjoyed her couscous, praising the fresh vegetables and delicate balance of flavors.


Discover the vibrant charm of Plaza Uta el Hamman in Chefchaouen, where rich culture, stunning architecture, and delicious Moroccan cuisine await every traveler.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at Chez Hicham in Chefchaouen - your gateway to cultural immersion.

After lunch, we explored the local crafts, a must-do in Chefchaouen. The Medina is filled with shops selling handmade goods, from woven textiles to pottery and leather products. I was particularly drawn to the colorful carpets, while Lena admired the intricate ceramics. Bargaining is customary, and we had fun haggling with the vendors, eventually purchasing a beautiful rug and a hand-painted bowl as souvenirs. I even managed to find a small, blue djellaba for my nephew, a little something to remind him of our adventures.


Discover the charm of Chefchaouen Crafts, where every handmade gift reflects the artistic heritage of Morocco's blue city.

As the afternoon wore on, we sought a refreshing break at Bar Oum Rabie. This bar offered a welcome respite from the bustling Medina. We enjoyed a glass of Moroccan wine, savoring the moment and reflecting on our first impressions of Chefchaouen. The view from the bar was stunning, overlooking the Grand Mosque. It was the perfect spot to unwind and recharge before continuing our exploration.


Experience the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine at Bar Oum Rabie in Chefchaouen, where grilled delicacies meet fine wine in a vibrant atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Cafe Clock, a place known for its modern Moroccan food and lively atmosphere. The restaurant had a multi-level layout, with a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city. I decided to try the famous camel burger, while Lena went for a vegetarian pastilla. The camel burger was surprisingly delicious, a unique culinary experience. Lena enjoyed her pastilla, praising the flaky crust and savory filling. The staff were friendly and helpful, providing recommendations and sharing stories about Chefchaouen.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen, where every dish tells a story amidst vibrant culture.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves back in Plaza Uta el Hamman, now bathed in the soft glow of evening lights. The square was still bustling, but with a more relaxed vibe. We sat at a cafe, sipping mint tea and watching the world go by. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a moment to soak in the magic of Chefchaouen and appreciate the beauty of this blue-washed city.

Back at Hotel Dar Mounir, we relaxed on our private balcony, gazing at the starlit sky. I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore such a unique and enchanting place. Lena and I chatted about our plans for tomorrow, which include visiting Ras El Ma, the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen, and Bab Chaouen. I am particularly excited to visit Ras El Ma, which translates to head of the water in Arabic, and is not only a clean source of water for the city, but is also a beautiful and serene place for tourists and locals to relax. We also plan to visit Jabir shop chefchaouen to get some souvenirs. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of blue alleyways and fragrant spices, eager to see what tomorrow would bring.

I almost forgot! I had packed everything except the umbrella and an extra memory card for my camera. I will need to be more careful next time!

Good night from Chefchaouen!