Solo Adventure in Chefchaouen: Exploring Morocco's Blue Gem

Akchour's Enchanting Embrace

Today, I ventured beyond the blue-washed walls of Chefchaouen and traded the intricate medina for the rugged beauty of Akchour Waterfalls. It was a day of crisp mountain air, the soothing sounds of cascading water, and a welcome escape from the bustling town. A day filled with nature's wonders, delicious food, and the simple joy of exploration.


Explore the breathtaking Waterfalls of Akchour in Morocco, a stunning natural paradise with scenic hikes and refreshing waters that captivate every visitor.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Sofia. The cafe, overlooking Plaza Outa el-Hammam, offered a perfect start with its blend of international and Moroccan flavors. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, savoring the freshly baked bread, olives, and a flavorful tagine. Sipping on strong, sweet mint tea while watching the town slowly wake up was a delightful experience. It's funny, even though I'm miles away from Matera, sometimes these quiet morning moments remind me of home.


Explore Chefchaouen: A Moroccan gem known for its stunning blue streets and authentic culinary experiences.

Fueled and ready, I hopped on a bus headed towards Akchour. The ride itself was an experience, winding through the Rif Mountains, offering panoramic views of the landscape. The winter air was crisp, and I was glad I'd packed a warm scarf. I remembered forgetting sunscreen and a portable charger, a mental note for future adventures. Pieter would have reminded me, without a doubt! He's always the practical one.

Arriving at Akchour, I was immediately greeted by the raw, untamed beauty of the place. The trails were quiet, typical for this time of year. The locals say that visiting Akchour in winter means the tracks are quiet and the waterfalls are impressive, but the water is likely too cold for a swim. That was perfectly fine with me, I was here for the hike and the views.

The hike to the waterfalls was invigorating. The path wound along the river, with small cascades and lush greenery creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. The air was filled with the sound of rushing water and the songs of birds. The trail was well-maintained, though a bit rocky in places, so I was thankful for my comfortable walking shoes. It reminded me of hiking in the Dutch countryside with Alessia, although this was significantly more rugged.

The beauty of Akchour lies not just in its waterfalls, but in the journey itself – a symphony of nature's sounds and sights that rejuvenates the soul.

As I continued, I reached the first of the waterfalls. The water cascaded down the rocks into turquoise pools. It was too cold for a swim, but I dipped my hands in the water, feeling the refreshing chill. I paused for a while, simply taking in the scene, the power and serenity of nature all around me.

Continuing on, I decided to have lunch at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli. The terrace offered stunning views of the mountains, and I settled in for a delicious meal. I opted for a tagine, savoring the rich flavors and aromatic spices. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and I enjoyed chatting with them about the local area. It's these interactions that make traveling solo so rewarding; you're more open to connecting with people.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst stunning views at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli in Chefchaouen.

After lunch, I made my way back towards Chefchaouen. I decided to stop by Cafe Clock for a drink. The cafe, known for its unique atmosphere and fusion cuisine, was a welcome respite. I ordered a refreshing mint tea and relaxed on the rooftop terrace, enjoying the panoramic views of the blue city. The Cafe Clock is a multi-level restaurant so be prepared for stairs. The prices are slightly higher than other places, but the quality of food and service make it worth the extra dirhams. I overheard some other travelers talking about the live music performances they sometimes host in the evening. I'll have to check that out if I have time later this week.


Experience the essence of Moroccan cuisine at Cafe Clock, where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Chefchaouen.

For dinner, I decided to try Assaada. It was a delightful choice. I savored the authentic Moroccan flavors, indulging in a tagine and couscous. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I was so full after dinner that I decided to take a leisurely stroll through the town square before heading back to Dar Nokhba Inn.


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

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I plan to explore the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen and Bab El Ain. I'm particularly interested in learning more about the local culture and history. I'm also planning to do some souvenir shopping at CHAOUEN GIFTS. I'm hoping to find something special to bring back for Pieter and Alessia.

As I sit here, reflecting on the day, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Akchour was a welcome escape, a chance to connect with nature and experience the raw beauty of Morocco. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore, to discover, and to share these experiences with all of you. Now, it's time for a good night's sleep, ready for another day of adventures in the blue city.

The day reminded me of something my grandmother used to say:

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

And I intend to read as many pages as I can.

I am also reminded that I should call Pieter and Alessia tomorrow. I miss them terribly. I´m thinking about interior design, and how to incorporate some of the beautiful blue tones from Chefchaouen into our home in Haarlem. Perhaps a new rug or some decorative tiles? I know Alessia would love a blue-themed room! It's these little things that make me feel connected to home, even when I'm miles away.

I'm also contemplating the idea of sustainable living after seeing how the locals respect their environment. I'm inspired to bring some of these practices back to Haarlem. Perhaps I can start by reducing my plastic consumption and supporting local farmers. It's the small changes that make a big difference, right?

I am looking forward to tomorrow! Good night!