Exploring the Blue Jewel of Morocco: A Journey to Chefchaouen

A Day of Discovery in the Blue City's Surroundings

Today was a day of venturing beyond the blue walls of Chefchaouen, seeking out the natural beauty that cradles this charming city. With my friends, I was eager to explore the Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve and capture panoramic views from a local viewpoint. As a geriatric nurse from Berlin, I find solace in nature, a stark contrast to the clinical environment I'm accustomed to. It's moments like these, surrounded by serene landscapes, that rejuvenate my spirit and remind me of the simple joys in life.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers and adventurers in Morocco.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafétéria Lhawta. It was a cozy little place, perfect for fueling up before our adventure. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast – bread with jam and a strong coffee. It's quite different from what Hans and I usually have back in Berlin, but I'm all for embracing the local culture, especially when it comes to food. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back home; Hans would surely appreciate a taste of Morocco in our kitchen.


Discover Cafétéria Lhawta in Chefchaouen: where aromatic coffees meet Moroccan charm amidst stunning blue streets.

With our stomachs full, we set off towards Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve. The drive itself was a treat, with the landscape transforming from the blue hues of Chefchaouen to the lush greenery of the Rif Mountains. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city. As we drove, I told my friends about the Intercontinental Biosphere Reserve Andalusia-Morocco, declared by UNESCO in 2006, which Talassemtane and Jebel Bouhachem are part of. I learned about it before the trip, and I was looking forward to see it myself.

The reserve is a sprawling 33,000-hectare protected area, a haven for biodiversity. It's home to a variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles, and the forests are a mix of oak and maritime pines. While we didn't spot any Barbary macaques, just knowing they were somewhere in the vicinity added an element of excitement to our hike. The trails were a mix of easy and challenging, and we opted for a moderate route that allowed us to soak in the scenery without overexerting ourselves. The views were simply breathtaking, with rolling hills and valleys stretching as far as the eye could see. It made me think of how important it is to preserve these natural spaces for future generations.

The beauty of nature is a reminder that simplicity and tranquility can be found even in the most unexpected places.

After our hike, we made our way to a local viewpoint, eager to capture a panoramic vista of Chefchaouen. The viewpoint, easily accessible from the city, offered a stunning perspective of the blue-washed buildings nestled against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains. It was the perfect spot to take photos and simply admire the unique beauty of Chefchaouen. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for being able to experience such a place with my friends.


Discover the stunning Tisemlale Viewpoint in Morocco, where breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes await every traveler.

For lunch, we decided on Restaurant Ali Baba. The restaurant offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Moroccan dishes. I opted for a tagine, a slow-cooked stew that's a staple of Moroccan cuisine. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the skillful use of spices. It was a satisfying meal that left us feeling content and energized.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Ali Baba in Chefchaouen's enchanting blue streets.

As the day began to wind down, we sought out a spot to enjoy the sunset. We found ourselves at Sunset at sunset, a bar known for its captivating views. The bar was perfectly positioned to offer a front-row seat to the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical experience, made even better by the company of my friends. As we sipped on refreshing drinks, we reminisced about our day and shared stories from our lives back home.


Unwind at Sunset at Sunset, a magical bar in Chefchaouen offering breathtaking views and a relaxing ambiance amidst vibrant blue-washed buildings.

For dinner, we chose Assaada, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant had a lovely ambiance, with a rooftop dining area that offered stunning views of the city. I ordered a couscous dish, a traditional Berber staple made with semolina and vegetables. It was a flavorful and satisfying meal, the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Assaada in Chefchaouen - a must-visit dining destination for travelers seeking local flavors.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. From the scenic hikes to the delicious meals and the breathtaking sunset, every moment was a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the world. Sharing these experiences with my friends made them even more special. As a geriatric nurse, I often witness the fragility of life, and it's moments like these that remind me to cherish every day and appreciate the simple joys that surround us.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Bab El Ain and the Hero Eagle, continuing our exploration of Chefchaouen's landmarks. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us as we delve deeper into the heart of this enchanting city. I'm especially looking forward to visiting Jabir shop chefchaouen to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to Berlin. I think Hans would appreciate a little piece of Morocco to remind him of our travels.

I'm also looking forward to trying Restaurant Lalla Messaouda for breakfast, Chez Aziz for lunch, and The Magic Lamp House of Aladin for dinner. It's exciting to anticipate the new culinary experiences that await us. Perhaps I'll even pick up some new recipes to try in my own kitchen back in Berlin. After all, food is such an integral part of culture, and I'm always eager to learn more about the traditions and flavors of different countries.

And of course, I'm eager to continue capturing the beauty of Chefchaouen through my lens. Every corner of this city seems to offer a new photo opportunity, and I'm determined to document as much as possible. These photos will serve as lasting memories of our time here, allowing us to relive these moments long after we've returned home. It's amazing how a single image can transport you back to a specific time and place, evoking emotions and memories that might otherwise fade away.

As the night draws to a close, I'm filled with anticipation for the adventures that tomorrow holds. Chefchaouen has already captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what other hidden gems we'll uncover in the days to come. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, allowing us to step outside of our comfort zones, broaden our perspectives, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And as I drift off to sleep, I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my friends, making our journey even more meaningful and unforgettable.