Chefchaouen is one of our favourite excursions in Morocco – do you want to know why? Its blue walls and its setting amongst the majestic Rif mountains of Northern Morocco make it a truly beautiful place to visit.
Established in 1471 when Jewish and Moorish people were forced to escape the Reconquista of Spain, Chefchaoun is an enchanting town which is also popular with people who are travelling from Marrakech to Fez. Here are some of our favourite things to do whilst you are there:
Check out the Lina Ryad and Spa
The Lina Ryad and Spa is a beautiful oasis right in the heart of the Medina. The on-site spa offers traditional treatments such as hammam relaxing massages as well as facials, manicures and pedicures. It is also home to a stunning heated indoor pool as well. Definitely somewhere to escape from the hustle and bustle outside.
Eat at the El Jaleo Restaurant
Currently ranked as the number one restaurant in Chefchaouen, the El Jaleo restaurant is one of the best traditional Moroccan restaurants in town. You can choose from a menu containing many Moroccan favourites, such as kofta, couscous and tagine at a very affordable price.
Escape to the Ras el-Ma
If you don’t fancy heading out to the Cascades d’Akchour in the mountains, then why not stroll along to the Ras el-Ma falls instead. Locals tend to gather at this watering spot to wash their clothes and chat about this and that, so you will get a great insight into their daily life – as well as a bit of relief from the heat.
Explore the old city and Medina
One of the main attractions of Chefchaouen is its shopping. Its traditional souk may not be as dazzling as those in Casablanca, Fes or Marrakech but it is still worth a visit to buy some traditional souvenirs after you have tired of wondering through the pretty blue streets. The one thing it does have over the souks in the larger cities is more of a relaxed atmosphere, so you can stroll through at your leisure and pick out one of the beautiful leather products made locally that Chefchaouen is famous for.
Hike in the Rif Mountains
Strap on your hiking boots and take a trip up the Rif Mountains to gain an even better appreciation of the beauty of the local area. The Rif Mountains are less well known that their neighbours the Atlas Mountains, but they are just as scenic, rising 6500 feet above the Mediterranean Sea. If you are feeling really adventurous you could complete the two-day trek to the Talassemtane National Park – created to preserve the last of Morocco’s threatened fir forests.
People watch in the Plaza Uta el-Hammam
One of our favourite ways to relax is to head to the Plaza Uta el-Hammam and while away a few hours people watching. The architecture of this square is a mix of Arabic and Spanish, and this influence can also be seen in the food available – both in the restaurants and surrounding food stalls.
Take a guided tour
We can hear you groaning from hear, but taking a guided tour really is necessary in Chefchaouen as it is full of hidden finds and interesting stories, that you just wouldn’t learn on your own. They will show you the medina’s stunning natural water spring, take you to the flour mill, and even tell you more about the town’s stunning gates and walls.
Walk to the Cascades d’Akchour
For the more adventurous amongst you, why not jump in a taxi and take the 30-minute ride to the Cascades d’Akchour – an area of natural scenery which will blow your mind. Hike along the beautiful tourist trail, keeping your eyes peeled for the Bridge of God (a rock arch which spans the river) until you arrive at the stunning waterfalls. Be sure to pack your swimming costume if you want to take a dip!
View the Grand Mosque
A trip to any city in Morocco is not complete until you have visited the Mosque, and Chefchaouen is no exception. Its Grand Mosque features an unusual octagonal minaret is truly a site to behold. You won’t be able to enter the mosque, of course, (unless you are Muslim) but it is still worth seeking it out to see the stunning 15th century architecture. Keep an ear out as well for the call to prayer which sound from here five times a day.
Visit the Kasbah Museum
The Kasbah Museum, or the Ethnographic Museum to give it is proper name, stands in the middle of the beautiful Andalusian gardens. This museum contains everything you need to see to understand the story of the Chefchaouen region – including musical instruments and pottery. If art is more your thing, then don’t worry, there is a small amount of that for you to see as well. It’s a must-do so you can learn more about the culture and history of this beautiful part of Morocco.
If you are thinking of booking a luxury holiday Morrocco,and you want to visit Chefchaouen, then please get in touch with Hasina Morocco Tours – the premier Morocco Tours provider.
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