Solo Cultural Retreat in Chefchaouen, Morocco

A Blue Beginning

Chefchaouen, they call it the Blue Pearl, and today, it lived up to its name and then some. My first day here was a sensory feast, a deep dive into a world painted in every shade of azure imaginable. From the moment I stepped off the bus, I was enveloped in a tranquility that Berlin, with all its vibrant energy, simply can't offer. The air here is crisp, clean, and carries the faintest scent of woodsmoke and spices.

The journey from Tangier was beautiful. The views of the Rif Mountains were breathtaking. I can see why this location was chosen as a defensive stronghold. As I settled into my room at Hotel Casa Miguel, I knew I was in for something special. It felt like a true home away from home, and I was eager to begin my exploration.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel Casa Miguel, your perfect base in the heart of Chefchaouen, complete with wellness services and local cuisine.
My first stop was Cafe Clock for breakfast. What a delightful way to start the day! I opted for the Berber eggs, a local specialty, along with a spiced coffee. The eggs were perfectly cooked, the tomatoes were bursting with flavor, and the j’ben cheese added a creamy richness that I won’t soon forget. The spiced coffee, a fragrant blend of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, was the perfect complement to the meal, warming me from the inside out as I watched the town slowly awaken.


Discover the rich culinary heritage of Morocco at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen - where every meal tells a story.
With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set out to explore the famed blue medina. It's a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, each turn revealing a new vista more captivating than the last. The buildings are painted in various shades of blue, from a soft, almost ethereal pastel to a deep, vibrant indigo. I learned that some believe the blue hues were introduced by Jewish refugees, representing the sky and heaven, while others say it helps to keep mosquitos away or keeps the houses cooler. Whatever the reason, it's pure magic.

I soon found myself drawn to the Kasbah, a fortress dating back to the 15th century. It was built by Moulay Ali Ben Rachid to defend against the Portuguese. As I wandered through the Kasbah's towers and ramparts, I felt a tangible connection to the past. I explored the gardens filled with palm trees, and then I visited the museum. The museum gave a good overview of the local history and culture. The displays of traditional clothing, musical instruments, and weaponry offered a glimpse into the life of the region. It was fascinating to see how the Andalusian influence has shaped Chefchaouen over the centuries.


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

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its visual appeal, but in the sense of peace and timelessness it evokes.

After the Kasbah, I decided to take a guided tour with Blue Medina Tours. I wanted to learn more about the history and culture of the town from a local perspective. My guide, whose name was Mohammed, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about Chefchaouen. He shared stories about the town's founding, its role in resisting Portuguese invasions, and the unique traditions of the Berber people who call this place home. It was a great way to get a deeper understanding of the town beyond its aesthetic appeal. I also learned about Sayyida al-Hurra, a fascinating figure who ruled the city in the 16th century and was both a political strategist and a naval commander.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant blue hues of Chefchaouen, where culture and beauty blend seamlessly in Morocco's enchanting mountain town.
For lunch, I ventured to Assaada, recommended by Mohammed as one of the best places in town for authentic Moroccan cuisine. He wasn't wrong! The restaurant had a lovely rooftop terrace with stunning views of the medina. I ordered the lemon and olive chicken tagine, and it was absolutely divine. The chicken was tender and flavorful, infused with the tangy brightness of the lemons and the briny richness of the olives. The vegetable couscous was also amazing. It was served with a side of fresh orange juice that was so sweet and refreshing. The owner, Yahyah, was incredibly welcoming and made me feel right at home.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Assaada in Chefchaouen - a must-visit dining destination for travelers seeking local flavors.
After lunch, I did some shopping at the Blue. concept store. I was looking for some unique souvenirs to bring back to Lena and Kai. The store had a beautiful selection of handcrafted jewelry, textiles, and ceramics. I found a lovely Berber rug for our living room and a delicate silver necklace for Lena. Kai, of course, wanted a new football shirt, but I managed to convince him that a traditional Moroccan drum would be a much more interesting memento. Bargaining was definitely part of the fun, and I managed to get some great deals. I also found some spices to bring back to Berlin, so I can try my hand at recreating some of the delicious dishes I’ve been enjoying here.


Explore the vibrant culture of Chefchaouen at Blue. Concept Store, your go-to destination for unique Moroccan gifts and artisanal treasures.
As the afternoon wore on, I made my way to Restaurant Bab Ssour for dinner. It's a vegetarian restaurant, and I was curious to see what it had to offer. I was pleasantly surprised by the variety and quality of the dishes. I tried the bean and lentil dishes, fava bean and vegetable soups, peppers and tomatoes cooked salad, and cooked zucchini salad. I ended up ordering the vegetable tagine, which was bursting with flavor and spices. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with some seating on the floor and a lovely terrace upstairs. It was the perfect place to relax and reflect on my first day in Chefchaouen. I enjoyed some Moroccan pastries and mint tea for dessert. The mint tea was the perfect ending to the meal.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Bab Ssour in Chefchaouen - where every bite tells a story.
Before heading back to Casa Miguel, I took one last stroll through the medina. The town was even more magical at night, with the blue walls illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns. The air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, and the scent of spices and grilling meat wafted from the restaurants. I stopped to listen to a group of musicians playing traditional Berber music. It was a truly enchanting experience.

As I walked back to my hotel, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore Chefchaouen. It's a place that has captured my heart with its beauty, its history, and its warm and welcoming people. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when I plan to visit Plaza Uta el Hamman, Ras El Ma, and the City View Point. I also plan to check out Restaurant Bar Chaouen. I wonder what culinary delights await me. I'm also keen to learn more about the local culture and traditions. Perhaps I’ll even pick up a few more words of Arabic or French. I am also going to make sure I put on sunscreen tomorrow, something I forgot to do today!

Aloha from Chefchaouen, and until tomorrow!