Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen with Friends

A Day of Blue Hues and Hidden Views

Today was a day of wandering, a day of getting wonderfully lost in the blue-washed labyrinth that is Chefchaouen. It’s amazing how a single color can define a place, can seep into your soul and leave you feeling both invigorated and utterly relaxed. Today, my friends and I set out to explore some of the more secluded corners of this Moroccan gem, and what we found was nothing short of magical.

Our morning started, as most mornings here do, with a hearty breakfast at Amigo. This little spot, just at the entrance of the medina, is a local favorite, and it’s easy to see why. The terrace overlooks the Bab Souk square, offering a prime view of the traditional life unfolding in Chaouen. I opted for the couscous, while the others went for the tagine, all washed down with copious amounts of mint tea. Fuelled up and ready for adventure, we set off to find the famed Callejón de Sidi Bouchouka.

Finding the Callejón de Sidi Bouchouka was like stumbling upon a secret. Tucked away in the medina, this alleyway is a riot of color and artistry. The walls are adorned with whimsical motifs, and hanging planters add bursts of green against the blue backdrop. It felt like stepping into a painting, with every corner offering a new photo opportunity. We spent a good hour here, snapping photos and simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. The soft morning light made the blue hues even more vibrant, and I couldn't resist trying to capture the essence of this place through my lens.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places are those you stumble upon unexpectedly.

As an English teacher, I always appreciate the stories behind places, and Chefchaouen is steeped in history. It was founded in 1471 as a fortress to resist Portuguese expansion. Over time, it became a sanctuary for Muslim and Jewish refugees fleeing the Spanish Reconquista. This blend of cultures has shaped the city into the unique destination it is today. Exploring the Callejón de Sidi Bouchouka, I felt a deep connection to the past, imagining the lives of those who had walked these streets before me.

Next on our list was the Sidi Bouchouka photo spot. This location offers panoramic views of the city, and it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite among photographers. From here, the blue buildings cascade down the hillside, creating a breathtaking vista. The Rif Mountains in the background add to the drama, making it a truly unforgettable sight. We took our time here, enjoying the fresh mountain air and marveling at the beauty of the Blue Pearl.

Afterward, we made our way to Bab El Hammar, one of the city's historic gates. While some sources refer to Bab El Hammar as a museum, we found it to be more of a cultural landmark—a beautiful brick gate that serves as a testament to the city's rich past. Walking under its archway, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the history it has witnessed. The intricate details of the gate were fascinating, and I made sure to take plenty of photos to remember this moment.

By this point, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we decided to head to Restaurant Hamsa for lunch. Located near Place Outa El Hamam, this restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan flavors and cozy atmosphere. I opted for the tagine, while my friends tried the couscous and harira soup. Every dish was bursting with flavor, and we savored each bite while soaking in the local culture. The mint tea, of course, was a must.

With our bellies full, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at Boutique EL-ASRI. This men's fashion boutique is a gem, offering a curated selection of stylish clothing that blends traditional Moroccan designs with modern aesthetics. As someone who appreciates cultural exchange, I loved seeing how the boutique incorporated local craftsmanship into its pieces. I ended up buying a beautiful scarf as a souvenir, while my friend picked out a stylish djellaba.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Chez Foad for dinner. This restaurant is a local institution, known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and we immediately felt at home. I ordered the chicken tagine, while my friends opted for the kebabs and seafood. Each dish was cooked to perfection, and we savored every bite as we reminisced about our day.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by how much Chefchaouen has to offer. It's not just a pretty city; it's a place with a soul, a place where you can get lost in the beauty of the blue alleys and discover hidden gems around every corner. I'm so grateful to be sharing this experience with my friends, and I know that these memories will stay with me long after we leave.

Tomorrow, we’re heading to Tetouan. We plan to visit the Tetuan Modern Art Center, Feddan Park, and Tetouan's old Medina map. I’m looking forward to exploring another facet of Moroccan culture and history. Perhaps we'll even find a cozy little bar like Cafetería Lhawta to unwind in the evening. For now, though, I'm content to bask in the memories of today, a day of blue hues, hidden views, and unforgettable moments with friends.