A Family Adventure in the Blue Pearl of Morocco: Chefchaouen

A Fond Farewell to the Blue Pearl

As the sun sets on our final day in Chefchaouen, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of emotions. This enchanting blue city has captured our hearts in ways we never imagined. From the moment we stepped into its labyrinthine streets, painted in every imaginable shade of blue, we were transported to another world. It feels like just yesterday we arrived, eager to explore, and now, it's time to say goodbye. Today was all about soaking in those last precious moments, revisiting our favorite spots, and creating memories that we'll cherish for a lifetime.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Restaurant Hamsa. After the incredible tagines and couscous we’ve enjoyed, it was nice to start the day with something familiar, but with a Moroccan twist. Aisha enjoyed her usual pancakes, while Hans and I savored some traditional Moroccan pastries. The rooftop view, as always, was breathtaking. The city slowly awakening, bathed in the soft morning light, was a sight I'll never forget. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our last day of exploration.


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

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to Bab El Ain. This iconic gateway marks the entrance to the old medina, and I wanted to capture it one last time. The name Bab El Ain translates to “The Gate of the Spring” and it truly feels like entering a different world as you pass through it. The contrast between the colonial side of Chefchaouen and the old town is striking. We strolled through Plaza Mohammed V, admiring the vibrant orange trees before reaching the weathered walls of the gate. The energy around Bab El Ain was infectious, with vendors selling everything from cactus fruit to hot chickpea cakes. Aisha was particularly fascinated by a vendor making fresh juice, and we couldn't resist trying a glass of the refreshing concoction.


Explore the historical beauty of Bab El Ain in Chefchaouen, a stunning gateway to Moroccan heritage and vibrant local culture.

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its blue walls, but in the warmth of its people and the richness of its culture.

Next on our list was the Sidi Bouchouka photo spot. I had seen countless photos of this picturesque location before arriving in Chefchaouen, but nothing could have prepared me for its real-life charm. The turquoise blue door, adorned with colorful tiles and surrounded by vibrant flower pots, is a photographer's dream. We spent a good hour here, snapping photos from every angle. Aisha loved posing in front of the door, her bright smile a perfect contrast to the blue backdrop. I even managed to convince Hans to join in for a few photos, which is a rare occurrence! It’s these little moments of joy and laughter that I treasure the most.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sidi Bouchouka, a must-visit photo spot in Chefchaouen, renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

For lunch, we decided to try Restaurant Hajji, a place recommended by several locals. This delightful culinary gem has been serving traditional Moroccan fare since the 1940s. The menu was extensive, offering everything from classic tagines and couscous to fast food favorites. Hans, ever the adventurous one, opted for the kefta burger, while Aisha and I shared a flavorful vegetable tagine. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, surrounded by the comforting aromas of Moroccan spices. As we ate, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip. Aisha loved the donkey ride we took earlier in the week, while Hans was particularly fond of the mint tea we shared with a local family. For me, it was the simple pleasure of wandering through the blue streets, getting lost in the beauty of the city.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Hajji in Chefchaouen – where every dish tells a story of local tradition.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the medina, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere one last time. The narrow, winding streets were bustling with activity, vendors selling their wares, children playing, and locals going about their daily lives. We stopped at a few shops, picking up some souvenirs for friends and family back home. I bought a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, while Hans found a traditional Moroccan leather bag. Aisha chose a colorful scarf, which she immediately wrapped around her head, pretending to be a Berber woman. These little mementos will serve as a reminder of our incredible journey.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break at Bar Oum Rabie. I had read that it was one of the only places in Chefchaouen serving alcohol, and after a week of exploring, we were both in need of a refreshing drink. The bar had a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with both locals and tourists mingling together. We ordered a couple of glasses of Moroccan wine and sat on the terrace, enjoying the stunning views of the city. Aisha, of course, stuck to her usual orange juice. The sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the blue walls, creating a magical ambiance. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on our time in Chefchaouen.


Experience the flavors of Morocco at Bar Oum Rabie, a charming grill and wine bar in the heart of Chefchaouen.

For our final dinner in Chefchaouen, we chose Restaurant Bab Kasaba, located right in front of the Kasbah. The restaurant had a lovely rooftop dining area with panoramic views. The menu was diverse, offering a range of Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes. We started with some traditional Moroccan salads, followed by a delicious tagine and grilled kebabs. The food was flavorful and well-prepared, and the service was excellent. As we ate, we watched the city come alive with lights, the blue walls shimmering under the stars. It was a truly magical experience.


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

As we prepare to leave Chefchaouen tomorrow, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it has been a journey of discovery, a celebration of culture, and a testament to the power of family. We have explored ancient ruins, tasted exotic flavors, and connected with people from all walks of life. We have laughed, we have learned, and we have grown closer as a family. Chefchaouen will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Reflecting on our family's adventure, I am reminded of the importance of embracing new experiences and stepping outside of our comfort zones. Traveling to Chefchaouen has not only broadened our horizons but has also deepened our appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our world. I hope that our journey inspires others to embark on their own adventures, to explore new cultures, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

And now, as I sit here writing this blog post, the sounds of Chefchaouen slowly fading into the night, I raise a glass to this enchanting blue city and to the memories we have made here. Thank you, Chefchaouen, for opening our eyes, our hearts, and our minds. Until we meet again.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Germany, filled with stories and souvenirs to share. It's always a little sad to leave a place that has touched your soul, but I know that the memories of Chefchaouen will stay with us forever. As we pack our bags and prepare for the next chapter of our lives, I can't help but smile, knowing that we have experienced something truly special.

Aisha is already asking when we can return, and Hans is secretly researching Moroccan recipes to try at home. As for me, I am already dreaming of our next adventure, wherever it may take us.