Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

Reaching New Heights in the Rif Mountains

Today was a day of embracing the great outdoors, a true test of endurance and a feast for the senses. I've always believed that the best way to truly experience a place is to immerse yourself in its natural beauty, and today's adventure in the Chefchaouen Region was a testament to that. The combination of challenging hikes and delicious Moroccan cuisine made for an unforgettable day.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café & restaurant Meftah. The stunning views of the Rif Mountains from the outdoor seating area provided the perfect backdrop as we fueled up for our hike. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast of eggs, bread, and olives, while some of my friends chose the tagine. Each dish was prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and the mint tea was the perfect start to a day of adventure. It reminded me of mornings back in Libya, sharing stories and laughter with family over a warm meal, a tradition I deeply cherish and try to replicate wherever I go.


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

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off for Parc National de Talassemtane. The park is a short distance from Chefchaouen, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. As we entered the park, we were immediately struck by the diverse landscape. Forests of cedar, oak, pine, and olive trees covered the mountainsides, creating a vibrant tapestry of green. The air was fresh and clean, a welcome change from the city. I made sure to apply sunscreen, remembering my oversight from the first day. My friends and I were excited to explore the trails and discover the hidden gems of this natural paradise.


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

Our main goal for the day was to hike to the Jebel El-Kelaa Summit. The hike is known to be moderately difficult, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort. The trail started with a gentle incline, gradually becoming steeper as we ascended. The paths were well-marked, but we still had to watch our footing, as some sections were rocky and slippery. I was grateful for my comfortable walking shoes, one of the trip essentials I made sure not to forget. The August sun was beating down on us, but thankfully, the trees provided some shade along the way.


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

The best views come after the hardest climb.

As we climbed higher, the views became increasingly breathtaking. We could see the blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen nestled below, surrounded by the rolling hills of the Rif Mountains. The scenery was truly awe-inspiring, a reminder of the natural beauty that exists in this world. We encountered some friendly locals along the way, who offered us words of encouragement and shared stories about the mountain. Their warmth and hospitality were a testament to the welcoming nature of the Moroccan people.

The final ascent to the summit was the most challenging part of the hike. The trail became steeper and rockier, and we had to scramble over some large boulders. But with each step, we were motivated by the promise of the stunning views that awaited us at the top. Finally, after several hours of hiking, we reached the Jebel El-Kelaa Summit.

The view from the top was simply spectacular. We could see for miles in every direction, taking in the vast expanse of the Rif Mountains. The blue city of Chefchaouen looked like a tiny jewel nestled in the landscape. We spent some time at the summit, catching our breath, taking photos, and simply soaking in the beauty of our surroundings. It was a moment of pure bliss, a reward for our hard work and determination.

After descending from Jebel El-Kelaa, our appetites were ravenous. We made our way to Restaurant Triana for lunch. This restaurant is known for its blend of traditional Moroccan flavors and modern culinary techniques. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, followed by the restaurant's signature lamb tagine. The lamb was slow-cooked to perfection, infused with aromatic spices that tantalized our taste buds. We also tried some of the fresh seafood dishes, which were equally delicious. The mint tea, of course, was a must-have, a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the meal.


Experience the flavors of Morocco at Restaurant Triana in Chefchaouen - where culinary tradition meets modern taste.

As the sun began to set, we decided to unwind at Restaurant Bar Chaouen. This lively spot is a popular gathering place, known for its vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff. We ordered some local drinks and enjoyed the sounds of Arabic music. Some of my friends watched a football game on the big screen, while others mingled with fellow patrons. The bar was a melting pot of cultures, a place where locals and tourists alike came together to share stories and experiences.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Morocco at Restaurant Bar Chaouen, where authentic cuisine meets a lively atmosphere in Chefchaouen.

For dinner, we ventured to Le Coin, a café-restaurant known for its diverse menu and relaxed atmosphere. I opted for a burger, while others chose pizzas and salads. The food was delicious, and the prices were reasonable. The dark interior and cozy seating created a welcoming ambiance. It was the perfect place to relax and reflect on the day's adventures.


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

Before heading back to Riad Zaitouna Chaouen, we made a final stop at Restaurant Bar Chaouen for a nightcap. The bar was even more lively than before, with an amazing female vocalist performing in Arabic accompanied by a talented keyboardist. The music filled the air, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. We danced and sang along, celebrating our incredible day in Chefchaouen. As I sipped my drink, I felt a sense of gratitude for the experiences I had shared with my friends. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding, the memories that will last a lifetime.


Discover the serene charm of Riad Zaitouna Chaouen, your perfect getaway in the heart of Chefchaouen, offering comfort, convenience, and cultural immersion.

As I lay in bed, exhausted but content, I couldn't help but feel excited about what tomorrow would bring. We plan to visit Bab El Ain and explore Blue Medina Tours [If I'm feeling adventurous, maybe I'll even try my hand at bargaining for some souvenirs at Jabir shop chefchaouen. I drifted off to sleep, dreaming of blue streets, mountain vistas, and the delicious flavors of Morocco. This trip is turning out to be everything I had hoped for and more.

I'm also happy that I remembered to pack my camera, as the views today were simply stunning. However, I still regret forgetting my sunglasses; the sun was quite intense during the hike. I'll make sure to buy a pair tomorrow when we visit Jabir shop chefchaouen. It's the small things that can make a big difference in your travel experience.