Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Nature's Embrace: A Day of Hiking in Chefchaouen

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty surrounding Chefchaouen. Leaving the blue-washed streets behind, we ventured into the Rif Mountains to discover the stunning Akchour Waterfalls and the vast landscapes of Talassemtane National Park. It was a day filled with invigorating hikes, breathtaking views, and a deep appreciation for Morocco's natural wonders.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Al Wiam. The cozy atmosphere and traditional Moroccan dishes set the perfect tone for our adventure. I enjoyed a flavorful tagine, while some of my friends opted for the local specialty, ftour beldi, which included goat cheese, eggs, and olive oil. It was a delicious start to a day that promised to be physically demanding but immensely rewarding.

Fueled and ready, we set off towards Akchour Waterfalls. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the Rif Mountains. As we approached the trailhead, the landscape transformed into a lush, green paradise. The air was fresh and crisp, a welcome change from the bustling medina. Once we arrived at Akchour, the views of lush landscapes and crystal-clear streams were already breathtaking.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Waterfalls of Akchour, a natural wonder in Morocco perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
The hike to the waterfalls was moderately challenging, but the scenery kept us motivated. The trail meandered alongside a river, with small cascades and pools dotting the landscape. The vibrant green foliage, contrasted against the reddish-brown earth, created a picturesque scene at every turn. Along the way, we passed several small stalls selling refreshments, a testament to the popularity of this route. It reminded me of some of the trails around Matsumoto, where I grew up, though the vegetation here was decidedly more lush.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand cities, but in the quiet whispers of nature.

As we continued our ascent, the sound of rushing water grew louder, signaling our approach to the main waterfall. And what a sight it was! The water cascaded down from a great height, creating a refreshing mist that enveloped the area. The turquoise pools at the base of the falls were incredibly inviting, and several hikers were already taking a dip. Though September is still warm, I decided to just dip my feet, enjoying the cool water after the exertion of the hike.

We spent a good hour at the waterfalls, soaking in the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. We took plenty of photos, capturing the moment and the stunning views. I couldn't help but reflect on how different this was from my usual routine in Bristol, coding away in front of a screen. It was a reminder of the importance of disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with nature.

After our time at Akchour, we ventured deeper into Talassemtane National Park. The park is a haven of biodiversity, home to diverse flora and fauna. While we didn't spot any Barbary macaques, which are known to inhabit the area, we were surrounded by the sounds of birds and the rustling of leaves. The park's trails offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a hiker's paradise.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Parc National de Talassemtane, a hidden gem near Chefchaouen in Morocco.
For lunch, we stopped at BILMOS. I decided to try their chicken tagine, and it was fantastic. The chicken was tender and flavorful, and the tagine was perfectly spiced. My friends enjoyed a variety of Moroccan dishes, and we all agreed that the food was a highlight of our day. The restaurant was close to Place Outa el Hammam, and the atmosphere was vibrant.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Bilmos in Chefchaouen's vibrant heart - a culinary journey you won't forget!
As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Chefchaouen. Before heading back to our hotel, we stopped at Café Mundial for a relaxing evening. This café is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent coffee. I enjoyed a traditional Moroccan mint tea, while my friends opted for coffee and pastries.


Experience the essence of Chefchaouen at Café Mundial, where delightful coffee meets a vibrant social scene in the heart of the blue city.
Sitting there, sipping my tea and sharing stories from the day, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. It was a day of physical exertion, but it was also a day of mental rejuvenation. The beauty of Akchour Waterfalls and the vastness of Talassemtane National Park had left a lasting impression on me. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life – the joy of hiking, the beauty of nature, and the camaraderie of friends.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Chefchaouen's cultural side. Our itinerary includes visits to Bab El Ain and the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen. I am eager to learn more about the history and traditions of this unique city.

Before heading back to Hotel Casa Miguel, we decided to have dinner at Restaurant Morisco. The restaurant is known for its stunning terrace overlooking Place Outa el Hammam. I had a delicious pizza, while my friends enjoyed Moroccan specialties. The service was friendly, and the atmosphere was lively.


Discover flavorful Moroccan and Italian dishes at Restaurant Morisco in Chefchaouen - where culinary traditions meet affordability.
Back at the hotel, I took some time to reflect on the day. It was a day of contrasts – from the rugged trails of Akchour to the cozy atmosphere of Café Mundial. But it was these contrasts that made the day so memorable. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Chefchaouen with my friends.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel Casa Miguel, your perfect base in the heart of Chefchaouen, complete with wellness services and local cuisine.
Tomorrow, we'll dive deeper into the heart of Chefchaouen, exploring its historical sites and cultural treasures. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting Bab El Ain and the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen. It will be a day of discovery, as we uncover the stories and traditions that make this city so unique.

Restaurant Reviews

During our day, we had the pleasure of dining at a few local restaurants. Here are my thoughts:

Restaurant Al Wiam: A great place to start the day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast. The tagines are flavorful, and the service is friendly. The views of the mountains add to the overall experience.

BILMOS: Perfect for a midday meal after a hike. The chicken tagine is a must-try, and the mint tea is refreshing. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the staff is welcoming.

Café Mundial: A cozy spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The coffee is excellent, and the pastries are delicious. It's a great place to people-watch and soak in the local atmosphere.

Restaurant Morisco: Offers a delightful dining experience with a mix of Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine. The terrace provides stunning views of Place Outa el Hammam. The pizzas are a good option, and the service is efficient.