Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: A Romantic Getaway

Reaching New Heights in Chefchaouen

Today was all about embracing the rugged beauty surrounding Chefchaouen. Lena and I ventured into the Rif Mountains, ready to challenge ourselves with a hike to the summit of Jebel El-Kelaa. The promise of panoramic views and a taste of local flavors fueled our adventurous spirits. It was a day of physical exertion, culinary delights, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this Moroccan gem.


Explore the breathtaking heights of Jebel El-Kelaa Summit in Chefchaouen, a hiker's paradise surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bab Souk. I opted for a traditional Moroccan soup, while Lena enjoyed some fresh fruit and yogurt. Fuelled up, we set off towards Parc National de Talassemtane. The crisp morning air and the anticipation of the hike ahead made the short drive incredibly pleasant. We parked near the trailhead, double-checked our gear (I was kicking myself for forgetting an extra memory card for my camera!), and began our ascent.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parc National de Talassemtane in Morocco's stunning Rif Mountains.

The initial part of the trail was a gentle incline, perfect for warming up our muscles. As we climbed higher, the path became steeper and rockier. Luckily, I had remembered my sturdy hiking boots, a lesson learned from previous adventures. Lena, ever the agile one, navigated the terrain with grace, occasionally stopping to capture the stunning views with her phone. The landscape was breathtaking, with forests of cedar and pine stretching as far as the eye could see.

We took a moment to appreciate the local flora and fauna. The air was filled with the scent of aromatic herbs, and we spotted several birds soaring overhead. I tried to identify them, but my bird knowledge is still a work in progress. We even saw a few Barbary macaques in the distance, their playful antics adding a touch of wilderness to our hike.

The final stretch to the summit was the most challenging, requiring some scrambling over large boulders. But the effort was more than worth it. As we reached the top of Jebel El-Kelaa, we were rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of Chefchaouen and the surrounding Rif Mountains. The Blue Pearl sprawled below us, a maze of vibrant buildings nestled in the valley. I took out my camera and snapped away, trying to capture the beauty of the scene. Lena simply sat down, closed her eyes, and soaked it all in.

The view from the summit was a reminder that the most rewarding experiences often require a little bit of effort and a willingness to step outside of one's comfort zone.

After spending some time at the summit, we began our descent. The way down was a bit easier on the lungs, but tougher on the knees. We took our time, enjoying the different perspectives of the landscape. Along the way, we encountered a few friendly locals, who greeted us with warm smiles and offered us some refreshing water. Their hospitality was a testament to the welcoming nature of the Moroccan people.

Back in Chefchaouen, our stomachs were rumbling. We decided to have lunch at Café Sindibad, known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. We shared a flavorful tagine and some refreshing mint tea, savoring the taste of local spices. The café offered a stunning view of Place Outa el Hammam, allowing us to people-watch as we ate.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Sindibad in Chefchaouen - where every meal tells a story!

In the late afternoon, we explored the winding alleys of the medina, soaking in the unique atmosphere of Chefchaouen. The blue-washed walls created a surreal and captivating ambiance. We browsed the local shops, admiring the handcrafted goods and intricate designs. Lena, with her keen eye for aesthetics, found a beautiful ceramic bowl that she couldn't resist. I picked up a leather journal, hoping to fill it with memories from our travels.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Restaurant Hamsa for dinner. This place was recommended to us for their vegan falafel. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We enjoyed a delicious meal, sharing stories and laughter. It was the perfect way to end a day of adventure.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine and tea culture at Restaurant Hamsa in Chefchaouen, an inviting culinary oasis amidst stunning blue streets.

To cap off the evening, we stopped by Café Mundial for a nightcap. The café had a lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists mingling and chatting. I ordered a local beer, while Lena opted for a mint tea. We sat outside, enjoying the cool night air and reflecting on our day. The café was showing a football match, and the cheers and groans of the crowd added to the vibrant atmosphere.


Discover the essence of Chefchaouen at Café Mundial, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the blue city.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Chefchaouen's cultural gems. We'll start with a visit to the panoramic view of the beach, followed by a stroll through Bab El Ain. We're also looking forward to trying out Toda Creperie & Ice Cream for breakfast, Restaurant Al Wiam for lunch, and Chez Hicham for dinner. And of course, we'll be sure to check out the Chefchaouen copper and lamps shop for some unique souvenirs.

Today was a reminder of why we love to travel. It was a day of physical challenge, cultural immersion, and culinary exploration. And as I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of Chefchaouen with Lena by my side. The Rif Mountains have certainly left their mark on us, and I know that we'll carry the memories of this adventure with us for years to come. I am also grateful for the reliable transport and delivery services Morocco offers, even to remote places like Chefchaouen.