Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen

A Blue Beginning

After a long journey from Kelowna, with a stopover in Tangier, I finally arrived in Chefchaouen, the famed 'Blue Pearl' of Morocco. Liam, sadly, couldn't make this trip due to work commitments, but I'm here with my amazing friends, and we were all buzzing with anticipation. The drive from Tangier was scenic, offering glimpses of the Moroccan countryside, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer blueness that awaited us. Stepping into the medina felt like entering another world, a dreamscape painted in every shade of azure imaginable.



Our first order of business was to check into Hotel Parador. It's perfectly situated, offering a comfortable base for our explorations. After dropping off our bags, we were eager to dive straight into the blue abyss. The medina of Chefchaouen is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, each corner revealing a new photo opportunity. The buildings are washed in varying tones of blue, from a soft sky blue to a deep indigo, creating a mesmerizing effect. I felt like I was walking through a living painting, my camera working overtime to capture the magic.


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

We started our exploration at Plaza Uta el Hamman, the heart of Chefchaouen. The plaza is a bustling hub, lined with cafes and restaurants, offering a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere. The air was filled with the aroma of Moroccan spices and the sounds of locals chatting and laughing. We took a moment to sit under the shade of a large tree, watching the world go by and planning our next move.


Experience the vibrant culture and stunning beauty of Chefchaouen at Plaza Uta el Hamman, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

Sometimes, the best way to discover a place is to simply get lost in it.

Our stomachs started to rumble, reminding us that we hadn't had a proper meal since our stopover. Following a recommendation, we headed to Cafe Clock for breakfast. The cafe is tucked away in one of the narrow streets, and its multi-level seating offers stunning views of the medina. I opted for the avocado toast, while my friends tried some traditional Moroccan pastries. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect, a blend of Moroccan and international flavors. It was definitely a bit pricier than the local restaurants, but it was worth it for the atmosphere and quality.


Discover the rich culinary heritage of Morocco at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen - where every meal tells a story.

After breakfast, we decided to delve deeper into the medina, losing ourselves in its intricate alleys. We stumbled upon artisan shops selling handcrafted goods, from colorful textiles to intricate ceramics. I couldn't resist buying a few souvenirs, a reminder of this magical place. We even popped into Blue. concept store, a gem of a shop filled with unique Moroccan gifts and artisanal treasures. It was sensory overload in the best way possible.


Explore the vibrant culture of Chefchaouen at Blue. Concept Store, your go-to destination for unique Moroccan gifts and artisanal treasures.

Next on our list was the Kasbah, a historic fortress located in Plaza Uta el Hamman. Built in the 15th century, the Kasbah offers a glimpse into Chefchaouen's rich history. We climbed the watchtowers, strolled through the Andalusian-style garden, and soaked in the panoramic views of the blue medina. The Kasbah also houses an Ethnographic Museum, which we explored to learn more about the local culture and traditions. Although the information wasn't in English, Google Translate came to the rescue, helping us understand the exhibits.


Discover the captivating Kasbah of Chefchaouen, a historical landmark that showcases Morocco's rich heritage and stunning architectural beauty.

For lunch, we ventured to Restaurant Bab Ssour, recommended for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant is nestled in the medina, and its cozy interior made us feel right at home. We ordered a selection of vegan starters and traditional Moroccan salads. The food was flavorful and satisfying, and the prices were incredibly reasonable. It was the perfect spot to refuel after a morning of exploration.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Bab Ssour in Chefchaouen - where every bite tells a story.

As the afternoon wore on, we continued to wander through the medina, discovering hidden gems at every turn. I was particularly struck by the vibrant colors of the paint powders displayed outside the shops, a beautiful contrast against the blue walls. The town is a photographer's dream, and I felt like I could spend weeks here capturing its beauty.



Before dinner, we took some time to relax and people-watch in Plaza Uta el Hamman. The plaza was even more lively in the late afternoon, with locals and tourists mingling and enjoying the pleasant weather. We sipped on mint tea, a Moroccan staple, and watched as the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the blue buildings.



For dinner, we decided to try Restaurant Parador, conveniently located in our hotel. We were exhausted from our day of exploring and didn't want to venture too far. The restaurant offered a mix of Moroccan and international dishes, and we all found something to our liking. It was a satisfying end to a long but rewarding day.


Discover culinary bliss at Restaurant Parador in Chefchaouen - where traditional Moroccan cuisine meets breathtaking views.

As I sit here in my hotel room, reflecting on my first day in Chefchaouen, I am filled with a sense of wonder and excitement. The blue medina is even more magical than I had imagined, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Ras El Ma, the local waterfall, and hike up to the City View Point for a panoramic view of the town. We might even check out Bar Oum Rabie for a drink in the evening.



Chefchaouen has already stolen a piece of my heart, and I know that this trip will be one for the books. I'm so grateful to be sharing this experience with my friends, and I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you all.



Until tomorrow,

Sophie