Exploring the Blue Pearl: A Journey to Chefchaouen

A Day Away from the Blue

After days spent wandering the enchanting blue alleys of Chefchaouen, I felt a yearning to connect with nature. Today was dedicated to exploring the rugged beauty of the Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve, a welcome contrast to the town's serene, man-made charm. Liam and I, along with our friends, were all eager to trade cobblestones for hiking trails.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers and adventurers in Morocco.

Our day began with breakfast at Chez Foad. It's a well-known spot, popular with locals, and I could immediately see why. The aroma of freshly baked bread and brewing coffee filled the air, a perfect start to our day. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with msemen (pancakes), honey, and a steaming pot of mint tea. It was simple, satisfying, and gave me the energy I needed for our upcoming hike.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Chez Foad in Chefchaouen – a culinary gem filled with rich flavors and warm hospitality.

With our bellies full, we set off towards Jebel Bouhachem. The drive itself was scenic, with the landscape gradually shifting from the blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen to rolling green hills dotted with wildflowers. I couldn't resist snapping photos along the way, trying to capture the essence of Morocco's diverse beauty.

Upon arriving at the nature reserve, we were immediately struck by the sheer scale of it. Jebel Bouhachem, the mountain that gives the reserve its name, loomed majestically in the distance. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and earth. We decided to take one of the trails that wound through forests of oak and maritime pines. As we hiked, I kept an eye out for the Barbary macaques that are said to inhabit the area, though we weren't lucky enough to spot any today. Liam, ever the enthusiastic wildlife spotter, was equally hopeful, but we contented ourselves with the stunning views and the peaceful sounds of nature.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

The trail was moderately challenging, with some steep inclines that got my heart pumping. But every time I felt like stopping, I'd glance around at the breathtaking scenery and find renewed motivation. The views from the higher points were incredible, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding Rif Mountains. It made me realize how much more there is to Morocco than just its famous cities.

We stopped for lunch at a scenic overlook, unpacking the sandwiches and snacks we'd brought with us. Eating amidst such natural beauty made the food taste even better. As we ate, we chatted and laughed, enjoying each other's company and the tranquility of our surroundings. It was a perfect moment of connection, both with nature and with each other.

After our hike, we drove back to Chefchaouen, our bodies tired but our spirits refreshed. Before heading back to Hotel Parador, we decided to have lunch at Restaurant Morisco. I had heard great things about its terrace view of Place Outa el Hammam. We managed to snag a table on the terrace and ordered a variety of Moroccan dishes to share. The tagine was particularly delicious, and the ftour beldi was excellent. I couldn't have asked for a better way to end our day of exploring.


Discover flavorful Moroccan and Italian dishes at Restaurant Morisco in Chefchaouen - where culinary traditions meet affordability.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Café Mundial, a local spot known for its relaxed atmosphere and refreshing drinks. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of hiking and sightseeing. I ordered a mint tea, while Liam opted for a coffee. We sat outside, watching the world go by and reflecting on our day's adventures.


Experience the essence of Chefchaouen at Café Mundial, where delightful coffee meets a vibrant social scene in the heart of the blue city.

Café Mundial turned out to be a hub of activity as the evening progressed. It was a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the laid-back vibe and the lively atmosphere. Apparently, it transforms into a sports bar at night, but we decided to call it an early evening before it got too crowded. I was definitely ready for a good night's sleep.

As I sit here writing this, back at Hotel Parador, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences of today. Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve offered a much-needed dose of nature, reminding me of the beautiful landscapes of my native New Zealand and the hikes Liam and I used to take in the Okanagan Valley back in Kelowna. The warmth of Moroccan hospitality, combined with the stunning scenery, has made this trip truly unforgettable. Tomorrow, we're off to Tetouan, where I'm looking forward to exploring the old Medina and soaking up even more of Morocco's rich culture.

The blend of relaxation and exploration is something I really value, and I believe it is something that my readers are also looking for. Whether it is finding the balance between design work and travel, or the perfect balance of cultural immersion and natural beauty, I am always looking for ways to experience the best of both worlds.

“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” I think Gustave Flaubert hit the nail on the head with that quote. It's so easy to get caught up in our own little bubbles, our day-to-day routines, that we forget how vast and diverse the world truly is. But then you step outside of your comfort zone, you immerse yourself in a new culture, and suddenly everything shifts. You realize that your perspective is just one of countless others, and that there's so much more to learn and experience. It's humbling, to say the least.

One of the things I love most about traveling is the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether it's sharing a meal with a local family, striking up a conversation with a fellow traveler, or simply exchanging smiles with a stranger on the street, these interactions remind me of our shared humanity. It's easy to build walls and create divisions, but travel has a way of breaking down those barriers and fostering understanding and empathy.

And of course, there's the sense of adventure that comes with exploring new places. The thrill of discovering hidden gems, navigating unfamiliar streets, and trying new foods is simply exhilarating. It's a chance to push yourself outside of your comfort zone, to challenge your assumptions, and to grow as a person. Travel isn't always easy, but it's always worth it. The memories you make, the lessons you learn, and the people you meet will stay with you long after you've returned home.

As I prepare for our adventures in Tetouan tomorrow, I'm reminded of the importance of embracing the unknown and approaching each new experience with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. After all, it's in these moments of discovery that we truly come alive. The Tetouan's old Medina map is our first stop, followed by the Callejón de Sidi Bouchouka. For meals, we're planning to visit Restaurant Chourafa for breakfast, RESTAURANT CASA ANDALUZ for lunch, and Restaurant Hajji for dinner. We'll also check out Bazar Sahara for some shopping.

I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today and reflect on the beauty and wonder of this incredible journey.