Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: Chefchaouen with Nang

Blue Daydreams and Moroccan Flavors

Today was another day of diving deep into the heart of Chefchaouen. After five days here, Nang and I are settling into the rhythm of this blue-washed town. Each day brings new discoveries, new flavors, and new perspectives. It's a sensory feast that I am so glad to be sharing with my wonderful wife.

Our day began, as many do here, with a delightful breakfast at Restaurant Ali Baba. We chose to sit outside, basking in the morning sun as we watched the town slowly come to life. The aroma of freshly baked bread and brewing coffee filled the air, a perfect start to our explorations.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Ali Baba in Chefchaouen – where flavors meet culture in a charming setting.
We savored traditional Moroccan breakfast fare. Nang opted for the msemen, a flaky, layered pancake drizzled with honey, while I chose the harsha, a semolina pancake that was both sweet and slightly savory. The mint tea, of course, was ever-present, its fragrant steam a comforting companion as we planned our day.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set out to meet our guide for the Blue Medina Tours. I will admit, I usually prefer exploring cities on my own, but I wanted to make sure we didn't miss any hidden gems, and I was hoping to learn more about the history and culture behind this enchanting place. Our guide, a local named Omar, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about Chefchaouen. He led us through the labyrinthine streets, sharing stories and insights that brought the medina to life.


Explore Chefchaouen's vibrant blue streets and rich culture with Blue Medina Tours for an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
We learned about the history of the blue-washed walls, with theories ranging from practical (keeping the buildings cool) to spiritual (repelling mosquitoes or representing the sky and heaven in Jewish tradition). Omar pointed out architectural details we would have surely missed, explaining the significance of certain doorways, arches, and decorative elements. It was fascinating to gain a deeper understanding of the town's unique character.

Wandering through Chefchaouen is like stepping into a dream, where every corner reveals a new shade of blue and a piece of history.

After our Medina tour, we strolled over to Park Sidi Abdelhamid. It was a welcome respite from the bustling medina. The park, though perhaps not meticulously maintained, offered a tranquil space to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the Rif Mountains. We found a quiet bench beneath the shade of a tree and simply sat, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. I watched children playing, families picnicking, and couples strolling hand-in-hand. It was a snapshot of everyday life in Chefchaouen, a reminder that this magical place is also home to real people with ordinary lives.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Park Sidi Abdelhamid in Chefchaouen, where nature meets the charm of Moroccan culture, perfect for relaxation and leisure.
For lunch, we ventured to BILMOS, a restaurant known for its vegan options. Nang, being the more health-conscious of the two of us, was particularly excited about this choice. The restaurant had a relaxed vibe, with a small outdoor seating area perfect for people-watching. Nang opted for a vegan panini, while I decided to try a traditional Moroccan tagine with vegetables. The food was tasty, and the portions were generous. We both appreciated the friendly service and the opportunity to try something a little different from the usual Moroccan fare.


Discover delightful culinary experiences at Bilmos in Chefchaouen—where Moroccan flavors meet international cuisine amidst stunning surroundings.
In the late afternoon, we found ourselves drawn to Cafe Clock, a place I had read about for its unique atmosphere and cross-cultural cuisine. It was indeed a vibrant spot, with multiple levels and a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the town. The menu was eclectic, featuring everything from Moroccan classics to international dishes. I was tempted by the famous camel burger, but ultimately decided on a tagine, while Nang chose a vegetarian pastilla.


Experience the flavors of Morocco at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen, where tradition meets contemporary dining for an unforgettable meal.
The food was delicious, and the ambiance was lively and engaging. We enjoyed listening to the mix of music and chatting with other travelers. Cafe Clock felt like a hub for creativity and cultural exchange, a place where people from all walks of life could come together and connect.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Chez Hicham for dinner. This restaurant had been recommended to us for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We were not disappointed. We sat on the terrace, enjoying panoramic views of the medina as the sky transformed into a canvas of orange, pink, and purple.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at Chez Hicham in Chefchaouen - your gateway to cultural immersion.
I savored a flavorful tagine, while Nang enjoyed a Moroccan salad. The food was hearty and satisfying, and the service was warm and attentive. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery. As we walked back to our guesthouse, hand in hand, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible experience.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Bab el Mahrouk and Plaza Mohammed V. I am looking forward to uncovering more of Chefchaouen's hidden treasures. Each day here feels like a new chapter in a storybook, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I am also hoping to find some Original Moroccan clothes for Ananda.

Tonight, however, I will sleep soundly, dreaming of blue hues and Moroccan flavors.