Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen with Liam

Beyond the Blue: Coastal Vistas and Cave Mysteries

Today, Liam and I decided to venture beyond the enchanting blue walls of Chefchaouen and explore a different facet of this region. We were eager to discover what natural wonders lay just a short distance from the city, and our adventure led us to panoramic coastal views and mysterious caves. It was a day filled with breathtaking sights and a touch of the unknown, offering a refreshing contrast to our previous days spent wandering the medina.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Jabir shop chefchaouen. I opted for some traditional Moroccan pancakes, while Liam enjoyed a classic omelette. Fuelled up, we set off towards the coast, eager to experience the Vue panoramique de la plage.


Experience the breathtaking natural beauty and panoramic views at Vue Panoramique de la Plage, a must-visit hiking area along the stunning Moroccan coastline.
The drive itself was stunning. As we wound our way through the Rif Mountains, the landscape transformed from the blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen to rolling hills and lush greenery. I couldn't help but think of my hikes in the Wicklow Mountains back home in Ireland, although the Moroccan landscape had a charm all its own. We eventually reached a vantage point that offered a breathtaking panorama of the coastline. The sparkling Mediterranean Sea stretched out before us, meeting the sky in a seamless horizon. It was such a contrast to the enclosed feeling of the blue city, offering a sense of freedom and expanse.

We spent a good while simply soaking in the view, taking photos, and enjoying the fresh sea breeze. Liam, ever the romantic, pointed out a secluded cove and suggested we come back another day for a picnic. Perhaps before we leave for Dublin, I thought, as there are so many beautiful beaches near Chefchaouen.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found just beyond the familiar, in the hidden corners of the world that await our discovery.

After our coastal interlude, it was time for the next adventure: exploring the Cave Acher.


Discover the serene beauty and breathtaking trails of Cave Acher, an enchanting hiking area in Morocco that captivates nature lovers and adventurers alike.
I must admit, I was a bit apprehensive. I’m not usually one for enclosed spaces, but Liam's enthusiasm was infectious, and I was determined to step outside my comfort zone. The cave was located a short drive inland, nestled amidst a rugged landscape. The entrance was unassuming, just a dark opening in the side of a hill.

We met our guide, a local Berber man who seemed to know every nook and cranny of the cave. Armed with flashlights, we ventured into the darkness. The air immediately turned cooler and damper, and the sounds of the outside world faded away. As we moved deeper, the cave revealed its secrets: stalactites hanging from the ceiling like frozen waterfalls, stalagmites rising from the ground like ancient monuments. Our guide explained the geological formations and shared local legends associated with the cave. I tried to remember some of the Gaelic I've been learning in Dublin, as the guide's Berber was similar to the Gaeilge I've been practicing. It was fascinating to learn about the cave's history and the natural processes that shaped it over millennia.

There were a few tight squeezes and slippery slopes, but Liam was a great help, offering a steady hand whenever I needed it. I felt a sense of accomplishment as we navigated the cave's depths. Emerging back into the daylight, I had a newfound appreciation for the hidden wonders that lie beneath the surface of our world.

For lunch, we stopped at Chez Hicham.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at Chez Hicham in Chefchaouen - your gateway to cultural immersion.
Liam had heard great things about their tagines, and we were both eager to try some authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant had a lovely terrace with views of the town, and we settled in to enjoy a leisurely meal. I opted for the chicken tagine with lemon and olives, while Liam chose the lamb tagine with prunes and almonds. Both dishes were bursting with flavour, and the tagines were cooked to perfection. I made a mental note to try and recreate these dishes back in Dublin, although I knew it wouldn't be quite the same without the Moroccan atmosphere.

In the late afternoon, we decided to do some shopping for Original Moroccan clothes.


Explore the vibrant world of Moroccan fashion at Original Moroccan Clothes in Chefchaouen—an essential stop for authentic cultural treasures.
I was hoping to find a traditional djellaba to bring home as a souvenir, while Liam was on the lookout for a leather belt. We wandered through the local markets, haggling with the vendors and admiring the colourful displays of textiles and handicrafts. I eventually found a beautiful djellaba in a shade of blue that reminded me of Chefchaouen itself. Liam, after much deliberation, settled on a sturdy leather belt with intricate Berber carvings.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to BILMOS for dinner.


Discover delightful culinary experiences at Bilmos in Chefchaouen—where Moroccan flavors meet international cuisine amidst stunning surroundings.
This restaurant had been recommended to us for its vegan options, and I was curious to see what they had to offer. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the staff were friendly and accommodating. I ordered a vegan panini, while Liam chose a traditional Moroccan dish with meat. We both enjoyed our meals, although I must admit that my panini was a little bland. Perhaps I should have gone for something more adventurous.

Reflecting on the day, I was grateful for the opportunity to experience a different side of the Chefchaouen Region. The coastal views were stunning, the cave was mysterious and exciting, and the food was delicious (mostly!). It was a day that reminded me to embrace the unexpected and to seek out the hidden gems that lie just beyond the familiar. As we head into our final day here tomorrow, we plan to explore Plaza España (pinsapar) and المدينة القديمة الاثرية, before heading back to Dublin. I am sad to be leaving, as I've completely fallen in love with the blue city!

Tonight, I am packing my bags and thinking about the contrasts of Chefchaouen – from the depths of the Cave Acher to the panoramic views of the Vue panoramique de la plage, it's been a whirlwind of experiences I won't soon forget.