Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen with Liam

A Day of Heights and Culinary Delights

Today was a symphony of exertion and indulgence, a perfect blend of nature's grandeur and the tantalizing tastes of Chefchaouen. From the challenging trails of Parc National de Talassemtane to the savory corners of local eateries, every moment was a vibrant note in our Moroccan adventure. Liam and I embraced the day with open hearts and hungry appetites, ready to conquer peaks and savor every flavor that came our way.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at BILMOS. I opted for the vegan panini, eager to fuel up for our hike. Liam, ever the traditionalist, chose a classic Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea. While my panini was a tad bland, Liam thoroughly enjoyed his meal, praising the freshness of the ingredients. The staff were incredibly welcoming, and the relaxed atmosphere, combined with the view of the square, made it a delightful start to our day.

With our appetites sated, we set off for Parc National de Talassemtane. The drive itself was an adventure, winding through the picturesque roads that hugged the Rif Mountains. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and earth. As we approached the park, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of green, a stark contrast to the blue hues of Chefchaouen. Talassemtane National Park, a sprawling expanse of nearly 60,000 hectares, is a haven of biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The park largely extends over the province of Chefchaouen, boasting a mountainous terrain rich with abundant water sources.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parc National de Talassemtane in Morocco's stunning Rif Mountains.

We decided to hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit, a trek I had been eagerly anticipating. The trail began with a gentle incline, easing us into the rhythm of the climb. The paths were well-marked, but I was grateful for my sturdy hiking boots, especially as we ascended the steeper sections. Liam, with his background in hurling, took the climb in stride, his athletic build proving advantageous. I, on the other hand, found myself pausing frequently, not just to catch my breath but also to admire the breathtaking views. The panoramic vistas of Chefchaouen and the Rif Mountains were simply awe-inspiring.


Explore the breathtaking heights of Jebel El-Kelaa Summit in Chefchaouen, a hiker's paradise surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

The higher you climb, the more breathtaking the view; the more challenging the journey, the sweeter the reward.

The hike was moderately difficult, with the summit reaching 1,350 meters. The air thinned as we climbed, and the sun beat down on our faces, reminding me of my fair complexion and the need for constant sunscreen application. We passed through forests of cedar, oak, and pine, the vegetation reminiscent of southern Iberia. Although we didn't spot any Barbary macaques, I kept a watchful eye, hoping to catch a glimpse of these playful creatures.

About three hours into our ascent, the trail became rugged, strewn with rocks. There were moments when I questioned my ability to reach the summit, but Liam's encouragement and the promise of the view kept me going. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we reached the top. The sense of accomplishment was immense, matched only by the stunning panorama that unfolded before us. From our vantage point, Chefchaouen appeared as a cluster of blue jewels nestled in the mountains, a sight that made every step of the arduous climb worthwhile.

We spent a blissful hour at the summit, soaking in the views and snapping photos. The descent was easier on the lungs but tougher on the knees. By the time we reached the base of the mountain, we were both exhausted but exhilarated. That was incredible, Ursula! Liam exclaimed, his face flushed with exertion and excitement. Definitely worth the climb! I couldn't agree more.

Back in Chefchaouen, our stomachs began to rumble, reminding us that it was time for lunch. We decided to try Restaurant Ali Baba, drawn in by the promise of authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant had a charming ambiance, and we were warmly greeted by the staff. I opted for the vegetarian tagine, while Liam chose the couscous with vegetables. My tagine was packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, a delightful explosion of flavors. Liam raved about his couscous, praising the tenderness of the vegetables and the flavorful spices. It was the perfect meal to replenish our energy after the hike.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Ali Baba in Chefchaouen – where flavors meet culture in a charming setting.

As the afternoon sun began to dip, we strolled through the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen, soaking in the unique atmosphere. The town was bustling with activity, locals and tourists alike meandering through the maze-like alleys. We paused to admire the intricate architecture, the vibrant colors, and the charming details that made Chefchaouen so special. I couldn't resist purchasing a few souvenirs, small reminders of our time in this enchanting town. I managed to find a beautiful ceramic tagine pot, perfect for recreating the delicious meals we had been enjoying.

Before dinner, we decided to unwind at Cafe Clock, a place I had heard so much about. The cafe had a unique vibe, a blend of Moroccan and Western influences. We settled on the rooftop terrace, enjoying the panoramic views of the town. I ordered a refreshing iced mint tea, while Liam opted for a spiced cappuccino. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, a perfect spot to unwind and reflect on our day.


Experience the flavors of Morocco at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen, where tradition meets contemporary dining for an unforgettable meal.

For dinner, we chose Le Coin, a restaurant known for its salads and tacos. After a day of traditional Moroccan cuisine, we were both craving something a little different. I ordered the Caesar salad, while Liam chose the chicken tacos. My salad was fresh and crisp, a welcome change from the rich tagines and couscous we had been indulging in. Liam enjoyed his tacos, praising the flavorful chicken and the zesty salsa. The service was excellent, and the prices were reasonable.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Le Coin, nestled in Chefchaouen's vibrant blue streets.

As the evening drew to a close, we found ourselves back at Hotel Dar Mounir, our cozy retreat in the heart of Chefchaouen. We sat on the terrace, sipping mint tea and reminiscing about our day. The stars twinkled above us, and the sounds of the town drifted up from below. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover the enchanting Hotel Dar Mounir in Chefchaouen, where comfort meets culture, and unforgettable experiences await every traveler.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Bab Chaouen and Bab el Mahrouk, immersing ourselves further in the history and culture of this captivating town. We'll also be visiting CHAOUEN GIFTS, hoping to find some unique treasures to take back home. I'm particularly excited about trying MIDO'S for breakfast, Tissemlal for lunch, and Chez Hicham for dinner. Each day here is a new adventure, a new opportunity to discover the magic of Chefchaouen.

Reflecting on today's adventure, I'm reminded of how travel can be both physically challenging and deeply rewarding. The hike to Jebel El-Kelaa Summit tested our endurance, but the views from the top were worth every drop of sweat. And the culinary delights we savored throughout the day nourished not just our bodies but also our souls. Chefchaouen, with its blue-washed streets and vibrant culture, continues to captivate us, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

One thing I'm learning on this trip is the importance of being prepared. I was so focused on packing my camera and comfortable shoes that I completely forgot a power adapter! Luckily, Liam had one, but it was a close call. And while I remembered sunscreen, I wish I had packed a light jacket for the cooler evenings. These little things can make a big difference in your overall comfort and enjoyment.

As I drift off to sleep, I'm already dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. Chefchaouen, you have stolen my heart. Good night from the Blue Pearl of Morocco!