Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Reaching New Heights in Chefchaouen

Today was all about challenging myself and soaking in the stunning natural beauty surrounding Chefchaouen. The plan was to hike to the summit of Jebel El-Kelaa, a mountain that promised panoramic views of the blue city and the Rif Mountains. With my friends, I was eager to trade the bustling medina for a day of physical exertion and breathtaking vistas. I packed my backpack, laced up my hiking boots, and set off, ready for an adventure that would test my limits and reward me with unforgettable memories.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Jebel El-Kelaa Summit in Chefchaouen, a hiker's paradise with stunning views and vibrant cultural charm.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Café & restaurant Meftah. The reviews I had read mentioned their friendly staff and beautiful views, and it certainly lived up to the hype. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast of bread, olives, and mint tea. The café was already buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in this enchanting city. After fuelling up, we made our way to the trailhead of Jebel El-Kelaa.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café & Restaurant Meftah in Chefchaouen's enchanting blue city.

The initial part of the hike was relatively gentle, a welcome warm-up for what was to come. The trail wound its way through verdant hills, with the sounds of birds and the occasional bleating of goats accompanying us. I couldn't help but feel a sense of serenity wash over me, a stark contrast to the busy streets of Bristol. As we ascended, the views of Chefchaouen became increasingly captivating, the blue buildings resembling a mosaic stretching across the landscape. I paused frequently to capture photos, wanting to preserve the beauty of this unique place.

The higher you climb, the better the view, and the sweeter the reward.

As we continued our ascent, the trail became steeper and more challenging. The well-marked path turned into a rugged, rocky terrain, requiring us to watch our footing carefully. There were moments when I questioned my ability to reach the summit, my legs burning and my breath growing short. But with the encouragement of my friends and the promise of even more spectacular views, I pressed on. We encountered other hikers along the way, exchanging smiles and words of encouragement. It was heartening to share this experience with fellow adventurers, all drawn to the allure of Jebel El-Kelaa.

About halfway up, we stopped for a quick lunch at Mounir Food. I had read about this place offering simple, tasty, and affordable meals, perfect for a mid-hike refuel. I grabbed a sandwich and some water, enjoying a brief respite before tackling the final stretch. The atmosphere was convivial, with hikers sharing stories and tips about the trail. It was a reminder of the sense of community that often forms among travelers, united by a shared passion for exploration.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Mounir Food in Chefchaouen - a must-visit for food lovers seeking halal delights.

The final ascent to the summit was the most demanding. The path was steep and rocky, and the air grew thinner with each step. I found myself relying on my hands for balance, scrambling over boulders and navigating loose gravel. But as I finally reached the top, all the pain and exhaustion melted away. The panoramic views were simply breathtaking. Chefchaouen stretched out below us, a sea of blue nestled amidst the rugged peaks of the Rif Mountains. The sky was a brilliant azure, dotted with fluffy white clouds. It was a scene of unparalleled beauty, a reward for all the effort I had invested.

We spent a considerable amount of time at the summit, soaking in the views and taking photos. I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me, a feeling of having conquered a challenge and witnessed something truly special. As a software developer, I spend most of my days in front of a computer screen, so these moments of connection with nature are especially precious. I thought of Eleanor and Kenji back home in Bristol. I made a mental note to plan a family hiking trip soon, wanting to share the joys of the outdoors with them.

The descent was easier on the lungs but harder on the knees. We took our time, carefully navigating the rocky terrain and enjoying the changing perspectives of the landscape. As we made our way down, I couldn't help but reflect on the experience. The hike to Jebel El-Kelaa had been more than just a physical challenge. It had been a journey of self-discovery, a reminder of the importance of perseverance, and an opportunity to connect with the natural world. I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience this adventure, to push my limits, and to witness the beauty of Chefchaouen from a new perspective.

Back in town, we decided to celebrate our accomplishment with dinner at Restaurant Jbaria. This restaurant was recommended for its traditional Moroccan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. I ordered a tagine, a slow-cooked stew that is a staple of Moroccan cuisine. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the culinary traditions of this region. The restaurant was filled with locals and tourists, all enjoying the convivial atmosphere and delicious food. The service was relaxed, adding to the charm of the place.


Discover the authentic taste of Morocco at Restaurant Jbaria in Chefchaouen—where every dish tells a story.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Sunset at sunset, a bar known for its views. I was hoping to capture some stunning photos of the blue city bathed in the warm glow of twilight. Unfortunately, the sky was a bit cloudy, but the atmosphere was still magical. We sipped on refreshing orange juice, enjoying the company of fellow travelers and locals alike. I thought of my father back in Matsumoto, who always encouraged me to embrace new experiences and seek out beauty in the world. I raised my glass to him, grateful for his wisdom and guidance.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Chefchaouen at 'Sunset at sunset', where breathtaking views meet serene relaxation.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore Bab Chaouen and the Kasbah. I'm particularly interested in visiting the Kasbah Museum to learn more about the history and culture of this region. I'm also looking forward to wandering through the Chefchaouen crafts shops, hoping to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to Eleanor and Kenji.

As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of contentment. Today had been a challenging but rewarding day, a perfect blend of physical exertion, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience this adventure with my friends, to push my limits, and to witness the magic of Chefchaouen. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, knowing that each day in this enchanting city is a gift to be cherished.

The hike to Jebel El-Kelaa was undoubtedly the highlight of the day. The panoramic views from the summit were simply breathtaking, and the sense of accomplishment was immense. I highly recommend this hike to anyone visiting Chefchaouen, but be prepared for a challenging climb and make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. The memories and photos will be well worth the effort. The evening was a delightful blend of culinary exploration and relaxed socializing. The tagine at Restaurant Jbaria was a culinary masterpiece, and the atmosphere at Sunset at sunset was simply magical, despite the cloudy skies. These experiences provided a perfect complement to the day's physical exertion, creating a well-rounded and unforgettable day in Chefchaouen.