Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen

Akchour's Aquatic Allure

Today, Liam and I, along with our friends, traded the blue hues of Chefchaouen for the verdant landscapes of Akchour. We were eager to immerse ourselves in nature and chase the renowned waterfalls hidden within the Rif Mountains. After several days navigating the bustling Medina, the tranquility of the Moroccan countryside was exactly what we needed.

The drive to Akchour was an experience in itself. Leaving Chefchaouen, the scenery transformed from blue-washed buildings to rolling hills and lush greenery. About 45 minutes later, we arrived at Akchour, a small village nestled in the heart of Talassemtane National Park. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city. We parked and were immediately greeted by the sounds of rushing water and the sight of small restaurants lining the riverbank.

Our first order of business was breakfast at Tissemlal. We enjoyed traditional Moroccan pancakes and mint tea, fueling up for our hike. The restaurant was charming, with tables set alongside the river, allowing us to dip our toes in the cool water as we ate. It was a delightful start to our day, and the perfect way to connect with the natural surroundings. After breakfast, we began our trek towards the waterfalls.


Savor authentic Moroccan cuisine at Tissemlal in Chefchaouen - a culinary journey into the heart of Morocco's flavors.

The trail to Grande Cascade D'akchour was well-maintained but definitely a workout. The path wound along the river, crossing it several times via makeshift bridges and stepping stones. I was grateful for my comfortable walking shoes, a definite essential I packed, unlike that travel adapter I’m still kicking myself for forgetting! The scenery was breathtaking, with dense forests, crystal-clear pools, and small cascades at every turn. The air was filled with the sound of birdsong and the gentle rush of water. Liam, ever the supportive husband, kept me motivated with his cheerful banter and occasional hand-holds over the trickier parts of the trail.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Grande Cascade D'akchour, a tranquil natural preserve near Chefchaouen, rich in waterfalls and stunning landscapes.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

As we hiked, we passed several small cafes and stalls selling refreshments. We stopped for a freshly squeezed orange juice, a sweet and tangy treat that revitalized us for the final push to the main waterfall. It was fascinating to see how the local Berbers had set up these businesses, utilizing the natural resources of the area to cater to hikers and tourists. Their ingenuity and resourcefulness were truly inspiring.

Finally, after a couple of hours of hiking, we reached the Grande Cascade D'akchour. The waterfall was magnificent, a powerful torrent of water cascading down a rocky cliff into a turquoise pool below. The mist from the falls created a refreshing spray, and the sheer force of the water was awe-inspiring. We spent some time taking photos and simply marveling at the beauty of nature.

I was particularly impressed by the way the sunlight filtered through the trees, creating dappled patterns on the water and rocks. It was a photographer's dream, and I couldn't resist snapping dozens of photos, hoping to capture the magic of the moment. Liam, always the patient one, waited for me, occasionally pointing out interesting details or suggesting different angles.

After soaking in the beauty of the Grande Cascade, we decided to explore the area a bit further. We followed a small path that led behind the waterfall, a slightly precarious but ultimately rewarding experience. The view from behind the falls was incredible, a curtain of water separating us from the rest of the world. It felt like we were in our own secret sanctuary, a hidden paradise far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

On our way back, we stopped for lunch at Assaada, another riverside restaurant. We indulged in a traditional Moroccan tagine, a slow-cooked stew of meat and vegetables, flavored with aromatic spices. The tagine was delicious, and the setting was idyllic, with the sound of the river providing a soothing soundtrack to our meal. It was the perfect way to refuel after our hike and savor the flavors of Morocco.


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

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to Chefchaouen. Before heading back to our hotel, we stopped by Sunset at sunset for a drink. The bar lived up to its name, offering stunning views of the sunset over the Rif Mountains. We sipped on refreshing cocktails as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, a perfect end to a perfect day.


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

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciated the opportunity to escape the city and connect with nature. The hike to Akchour Waterfalls was not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual journey, a chance to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the Moroccan countryside. It was a reminder of the importance of slowing down, taking a breath, and immersing oneself in the natural world.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Chefchaouen itself, visiting Park Sidi Abdelhamid and Feddan Park. I’m also hoping to pick up a few souvenirs at Hibart Souvenirs Shop. But for now, I'm content to bask in the memories of today's adventure, the sound of rushing water, and the sight of the magnificent Grande Cascade etched in my mind.

Back at Hotel Parador, I journaled about our day, the ink flowing as freely as the waterfalls we'd witnessed. It's moments like these, far from my graphic design work in Kelowna, that make me feel truly alive. Liam, bless his heart, was already snoring softly beside me, dreaming of sapphire pools and mountain trails, no doubt. I smiled, switched off the light, and drifted off to sleep, already anticipating what new wonders tomorrow would bring.


Discover the charm of Chefchaouen at Hotel Parador, where comfort meets convenience in a picturesque setting with stunning views and modern amenities.