Posts Tagged ‘Chefchaouen’

Hiking in Morocco, Morocco’s Best Kept Secret Treks

Monday, June 29th, 2015
Ait Ashok, Ourika Valley Morocco

Ait Ashok, Ourika Valley Morocco

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some of Morocco’s Best Kept Secret Valleys and Seacoast Regions for Hiking are location in the provinces of Essaouira, Azilal, Al Haouz, Ifrane, Ourika and Chefchaouen. With its diversity of geography and landscapes, Morocco offers plenty of opportunities to hike and trek. And even less experienced walkers need not miss out on the stunning coastal views, mountain panoramas and picturesque river valleys – there are many shorter or less challenging walks as well as the opportunity to trek on mule, camel or horseback. Here are five of Morocco’s best-kept scenic hiking destinations.

Cap-Sim, Essaouira (Photograph by Lynn Sheppard)

Cap-Sim, Essaouira (Photograph by Lynn Sheppard)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Essaouira Province

A longer stay in Essaouira offers the chance to get out of the medina and explore the surrounding countryside. The Cap Sim promontory, south of Essaouira and between the medina and the small seaside town of Sidi Kaouki, is reachable along the broad sandy beach when the tide is out. Given the prevailing trade winds from north to south, it is advisable to start in Essaouira and either organize a ride back from Cap Sim or the nearby village of Sidi Ouassane (beyond the lighthouse and home to a large wind farm) or continue to Sidi Kaouki (around 20km/12 miles along the beach from Essaouira) and pick up transport there, rather than turn back into the wind. Cap Sim can also be reached overland from the village of Ghazoua (8km/5 miles south of Essaouira). Walkers will be rewarded with views of deserted beaches, rock pools and caves and the occasional herd of goats grazing on the vegetation which clings to the windswept dunes and cliffs. The panorama is particularly attractive at sunset.

Ait-Bougemez, Happy-Valley

Ait-Bougemez, Happy-Valley

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Azilal Province

Beyond the city of Azilal, the Provincial capital, a road – only paved since 2001 – climbs up to Morocco’s so-called “Happy Valley” at Ait Bougemez. Remote and apparently untouched by many aspects of modern life, it is like a Moroccan Shangri-La. The Ait Bougemez Valley itself is a plateau in the High Atlas Mountains offering plenty of walks alongside babbling brooks where women wash their clothes, beside verdant green fields and under ancient walnut trees on the outskirts of small villages. Two cone-shaped peaks rise from the valley floor, one of which is home to the communal granary (agadir) of Sidi Moussa. It is a short, steep hike up to the granary, where a caretaker will happily show visitors around a small museum inside and up to the roof for the stunning views. For the more energetic, Ait Bougemez benefits from its proximity to M’Goun (Morocco’s 2nd highest peak after Mount Toubkal at 4,071m/13,350 ft) and its surrounding massif.

Al Haouz Province

Accessible on a day trip from Marrakech, the Ourika Valley is a very popular destination among Moroccans and tourists alike. Typically, day trippers visit the town of Setti Fatma in the valley to eat in a riverside restaurant and hike up to the seven waterfalls, which are easily reached with sturdy shoes via a combination of steps and scrambling over rocks. However, in the peak season this small town becomes overwhelmed with visitors. For those wishing to get off the beaten track and experience a more peaceful hike, Ait Ashok is a recommended destination. Hikers in the Ait Ashok area walk among fruit tree orchards fed by bountiful water flowing off the High Atlas Mountains and between small farming villages. In Spring, when the wind scatters the fruit blossom like snow, a trek is particularly pleasant. Later in the year, hikers can see the harvests of walnuts, almonds, apples and other fruits.

Ifrane Province

The area around Ifrane, in the Middle Atlas Mountain range, is known as the Switzerland of Morocco, due to its altitude which results in snow and skiing in winter. The protected area of the Ifrane National Park covers an area of 500 km² (193 sq. mi) and although the last Atlas Lions are long gone, it is one of the last remaining habitats of the Barbary Macaque monkey. Hikers in this region walk among huge forests of Atlas Cedar, where the birdlife is unparalleled. Ornithologists can expect to see birds of prey such as the red kits and common kestrel and the lakes in the park also support several duck species.

Talassemtane National Park

Talassemtane National Park

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chefchaouen Province

In the North of Morocco, in the foothills of the Rif Mountains and near the Mediterranean Coast, the area around the famous blue city of Chefchaouen is protected under the auspices of the Talassemtane National Park. The park covers some 145,000 hectares (358,000 acres). Hikers can either organize day hikes from Chefchaouen or undertake longer trekking excursions, staying within the park itself in a number of guest houses or in tents. The local environment is home to Rif Monkeys as well as countless native bird varieties and plant species, many of which are endangered. A popular destination for a day hike is the Akchour Falls and/or the Bridge of God. As long as the river is not in flood, various paths take walkers along the river banks and over a couple of hills. Routes can be selected according to fitness level and desired length of hike and in the peak season there are cafes on route where the weary can rest and enjoy a riverside tajine. The easiest hike is to God’s Bridge, a steep gorge at the base of which the river flows and which is spanned by a wooden bridge.

No matter your fitness level, Morocco’s diverse countryside of coasts, mountains and valleys is easily accessible and enjoyable. Hikes and walks of varying durations and challenge level can be arranged in many regions. It really is worth getting out of the cities to enjoy Morocco’s beautiful nature, stunning vistas and perhaps the hospitality of a rural Berber family along your route.

Written by Lynn Sheppard 

Lynn Sheppard has lived in Essaouira, on Morocco’s Atlantic Coast for more than 2 years, supporting local non-profits, writing and becoming an expert on all things Swiri (ie. Essaouiran). She blogs at Maroc-phile.com and for other travel industry clients.

For more information about Hiking in Morocco within the Essaouira Region

For more information about Hiking in Morocco within the Chefchaouen Region

Morocco’s Imperial Cities, Seaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villages, A Taste of Morocco, Magical Kasbahs, Ruins & Waterfalls, Absolute Morocco, The Best of Marrakech, Fes, and Ouarzazate

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration
Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel.  We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or + 1 (212) 618882681 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Explore beyond Chefchaouen, Day Trips from the Blue City

Sunday, April 5th, 2015
Chefchaouen, Woman in Medina

Chefchaouen, Woman in Medina

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chefchaouen, in the Rif Mountains of Morocco’s North, is a popular destination for visitors. Nestling in a valley beneath the “horns” of the mountains to which its name alludes (Ichawen means goat’s horns in the local Berber dialect), Chefchaouen is famous for the blue-painted houses in the steep and winding alleyways of the medina. This northern area of Morocco was once a Spanish Protectorate and there are many elements of Spanish culture and language still in evidence.

The city of Chefchaouen is well worth exploring for a day or two; the medina is attractive and small enough to navigate easily and you will find shops and artisans offering many local crafts. Near the river, you can see women washing laundry in the way they have for centuries, in their colorful striped aprons which are typical of the region.

Talassemtane National Park, Chefchaouen Region

Talassemtane National Park, Chefchaouen Region

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

However, if you have a little longer in the north of Morocco, the region around Chefchaouen is easily accessible and deserves some exploration. The city sits right on the border of the Talassemtane National Park. The park was designated in 1989 and covers some 145,000 hectares (358,000 acres). It is a great location for hiking and trekking and a number of routes are available for short half-day or day hikes as well as longer trekking and camping excursions. The park has a Mediterranean ecosystem including Rif Monkeys, native bird varieties and more than 239 plant species, many of which are endangered, such as the black pine, the Atlas cedar and the Elbow Tree (abbies marrocana), which grows only here in the whole of Africa.

Akchour Falls, Chefchaouen Region

Akchour Falls, Chefchaouen Region

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A great day hike takes visitors to the Akchour Falls and/or the Bridge of God. The starting point is a short journey (around 40 minutes by car) outside Chefchaouen. From the same starting point at the small hydro-electric dam, paths run right and left. The easier hike is up to the right, to God’s Bridge, a steep cavern traversed by a wooden bridge with the river flowing far beneath it. The track is hilly but not too challenging and it takes less than one hour from the start to the bridge. In the tourist season, there are small cafes along the river bank offering cans of soda chilled in the river and tajines cooked on charcoal burners.

Either from the starting point, or from God’s Bridge (creating a large loop back to the start), the path to the stunning Akchour waterfalls – known as the Blue Pearl Falls – is more challenging, but very rewarding. To reach the falls from the starting point (or vice versa), it is necessary to cross the river several times. The ease of doing this depends on the season – after the spring snowmelts the river can be high and fast-flowing. A local guide can offer advice on the safest routes and times of year. Take a picnic with you from your hotel, or stop off on the way at one of the riverside cafes or roadside restaurants.

Another worthwhile excursion heads south out of Chefchaouen to Auberge Dardara. The Auberge is run by Jaber Elhababi, a charismatic Tanjoui (native of Tangiers), who has returned to his roots and the land of his forefathers to establish his business and social enterprise. The small complex features a restaurant, simple accommodation and a pool in summer. The trip is worth it for the restaurant alone, which uses local recipes and techniques and sources many of the ingredients from the Dardara market garden. A meal on the outside terrace with views of the surrounding Rif Mountains takes some beating!

If you feel like something more active, Dardara offers a number of activities such as local trekking in the Talassemtane National Park, cookery classes and mule riding. The emphasis is very much on sustainability and a respect for local communities and their traditions. Dardara also serves up daily three course lunches which and is noted for the best gastronomic farm-fresh cuisine in the region.

The city of Chefchaouen is a not-to-be-missed element of any tour of northern Morocco. However, a well-planned itinerary will also include time to get out of the city and into the stunning surrounding area of dramatic hills, wild rivers, rich agriculture and centuries of tradition.

Written by Lynn Sheppard 

Lynn Sheppard has lived in Essaouira, on Morocco’s Atlantic Coast for more than 2 years, supporting local non-profits, writing and becoming an expert on all things Swiri (ie. Essaouiran). She blogs at Maroc-phile.com and for other travel industry clients.

For more information about Morocco Tours beyond Chefchaouen

Morocco’s Imperial CitiesSeaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villagesA Taste of MoroccoMagical Kasbahs, Ruins & WaterfallsAbsolute Morocco, The Best of MarrakechFes, and Ouarzazate

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration
Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel.  We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or + 1 (212) 618882681 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

 

Best Books on Moroccan Decor, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Sunday, October 13th, 2013

World Design by Herbert Ypma

The French designer Yves Saint Laurent remarked of Marrakech that “This city leads me to color.” Morocco has fascinated many designers with its wealth of color and diversity of islamic design for the last century.  The color in Morocco’s bright zellij tiles, woodwork, silver jewelry and cedar hand-crafted ceilings blend effortlessly with modern interior design. Morocco’s winding medina street scenes, colorful souks, majestic gardens and palaces provide the perfect inspiration to adorn a home.

There are many fine coffee table books that reveal the hidden beauty of Moroccan décor and the various ways in which the novice can create their own interiors using Moroccan products and motifs. Some of the best books on Moroccan decor are:

Moroccan Interiors by Lisa Lovatt-Smith  – This book explores the diversity of contemporary modern design  in Morocco, contrasting the simplicity of  the rural environment with the ornamental Andalusian style of Morocco’s Imperial Cities. The variety of styles and the immediacy of colors of modern Moroccan design has won it its place in international interior design.

Marrakesh by Design, Maryam Montague

Marrakesh by Design  by Maryam Montague – Marayam Montague writes an award winning blog “ My Marrakesh” and has her own magnificent home and guest house Peacock Pavilions, in Marrakesh. In  Marrakesh by Design she advises  the reader about how to create their own Moroccan inspired interiors  blending elements of decorated tiles, colored walls and sculptured ceilings and the Andalusian ideals of ornamental gardens and fountains.  The well illustrated book, Marrakesh by Design, shows the reader how villas and riads in Marrakech have created their own modern day interiors. Montague discusses ideas and projects that people can use while decorating their homes.

Montague also advises her readers on how treasures bought in the souks of Marrakesh can be incorporated into the modern home and used to inspire distinct Moroccan character. Moreover she explains why certain design features have predominated in Moroccan homes. The book is also an introduction into Morocco’s diverse culture and history and its impact on style. The book has splendid photographs making it a stylish coffee table book for the home.

Morocco Modern-World Design by Herbert Ypma – This is an innovative visual resource book for all interested in interior design for the home. Herbert Ypma  follows the origins of Morocco’s greatest creative  traditions and craftsmanship. She conveys has contemporary designers continue to us these ancient skills fusing the traditional and the modern. The book is lavishly illustrated with 171 color photographs .

The Villas & Riads of Morocco, Corinne-Verner

The Villas and Riads of Morocco by Corinne Verner – The Villas and Riads of Morocco showcases palatial residences in Fes and Eassouira, riads in Marrakesh and converted kasbahs. With more than 200 photographs, this book reveals the treasures of Moroccan design. It features the fusion  of new concepts  with the highest quality materials including  luxurious Berber carpets, Rabati textiles, marble, along with intricate carvings and mosaics. The book offers an overview of the cultural history of Moroccan riads and palaces with their centrally placed courtyard gardens.

Morocco Design Decor by Philippe Saharoff & Francesca Torre – This is a small coffee table book is packed with authentic Moroccan interiors many of them typical of modern designs widely used in Marrakesh. There is excellent detail on commonly used features  such as zellij tiles, painted wood and lanterns. This is the perfect practical guide for Moroccan home decor.

Morocco – Mark Luscombe & Dominic Bradbury  – Published by Conran this is a good all round introduction to contemporary and traditional elements in Moroccan architecture and design from country houses to modern restored medina houses.

Living in Morocco: Design from Casablanca to Marrakesh by Lisl Dennis and Landt Dennis – Living in Morocco  covers the work of ancient  Moroccan craftsmenship which has been adapted to modern designs with exciting images of  ceilings, courtyards and tiled walls. The authors include information about the blue and white painted walls of  Chefchaouen in the north and the Kasbah’s and souk’s of the South. They also cover the history of Marrakesh’s iconic La Mamounia hotel and the deep blue of Yves Saint Laurent’s walls in the Majorelle Gardens. The book is lavishly illustrated with photos of the interiors of houses and  Moroccan arts and crafts.

Written by Colin Kilkelly

For More Information Books on Moroccan Decor or a Morocco Tour

Morocco’s Imperial CitiesSeaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villagesA Taste of MoroccoMagical Kasbahs, Ruins & WaterfallsAbsolute Morocco, The Best of MarrakechFes, and Ouarzazate

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration
Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel.  We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or + 1 (212) 618882681 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Colorful Chefchaouen, Morocco’s Idyllic Escape, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Friday, October 11th, 2013

Chefchaouen, Blue and White Washed City

Chefchaouen lies inland from Tangier and Tetouan. Chefchaouen is a unique Moroccan city known for its blue and white washed medina walls that surround it. Filled with old world charm, a walk through Chefchaouen’s blue alleys  evokes being in a magical story book, similar to Aladdin and the magic lamp from One Thousand and One Nights. An early morning stroll through Chefchaouen’s  winding streets is a great to discover this Riffian town famous for fresh goat cheese, local crafts and peaceful setting.

Chefchaouen was originally a small fortress town founded by Moulay Ali Ben Moussa Ben Rached El Alami to resist the Portuguese expansion in Morocco. Built up by Jewish and Muslim occupants in 1471 Chefchaouen served as a refuge for those who fled Andalusia following the Reconquista led by the Catholic King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella.

When Spanish troops occupied Chefchaouen, or Chaouen,as the locals call it, in 1920 as part of the Spanish Protectorate in the north of Morocco, they found the population still speaking an archaic form of Catalan which they had brought with them centuries before. It was a closed city to Europeans until 1920 and was only visited in disguise at the risk of a european’s life. Charles de Foucauld and Walter Harris were amongst only 3 foreign visitors. Chefchaouen was returned to Morocco on its achieving independence in 1956.

Chefchaouen’s medina is a delightfully picturesque maze of streets and derbs leading to the Outa el-Hammam square and the restored kasbah. The grand 15th century Tarik Ben Ziad mosque has an octagonal minaret which was inspired by the Torre de Oro in Seville. It is part of the Andalusian influence on architecture found in the kasbah and its gardens in the heart of the medina. There is also a ruined Spanish replica of a mosque.

Chefchaouen Artisan

Chefchaouen’s main square in the medina is lined with cafes, craftsman, artists and weavers. Tourists can also visit the Kasbah near Plaza Outa el Hammam and the museum in the medina. Chefchaouen’s Kasbah was built by the legendary ruler Moulay Ismail and is surrounded by gardens. Inside the Kasbah, there is also a museum containing antique weapons, musical instruments, berber artifacts and photographs of the old medina. The town boasts a number of excellent restaurants as well as some many charming Moroccan Riads and boutique hotels.

Morocco travelers can visit souks where they can find local products which are special to the region such as woven wool garments and blankets ,carpets, djellabahs, wooden furniture, pottery and artifacts .

View of Chefchaouen

View of Chefchaouen

The area around Chefchaouen is a hashish and cannabis growing region as it is the only crop that can be grown in the mountainous region. This may also partly account for the relaxed ambiance and you may well be offered some of the local product but smoking cannabis remains illegal, so tourists must avoid it as Moroccan laws are very strict and the penalties severe.

The name “Chaouen” refers to the mountain which dominates the town and is said to resemble the horns of a goat. Climbing one of the surrounding mountains and trekking in the hills is a popular excursion. You can visit the Talassemtane Park and climb the region’s highest mountain Jebel Lakraa at 2,159 meters or visit the Bouhachem Park. For the adventurous there is the Kef Toghobeit Cave, nearly four kilometres long and over 700 metres deep, one of the deepest caves in Africa. There is also the Achkour cascade (waterfalls) and a natural bridge called locally “the Bridge of God” to visit.

Chefchaouen is a delightful and relaxing excursion from Fes and also a great place to visit on a Morocco tour en route from Rabat to Fes.

For More Information about a Chefchaouen Tour

Morocco’s Imperial CitiesSeaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villagesA Taste of MoroccoMagical Kasbahs, Ruins & WaterfallsAbsolute Morocco, The Best of MarrakechFes, and Ouarzazate

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration
Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel.  We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or + 1 (212) 618882681 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

 

 

 

Chefchaouen, the Blue and White City of Morocco

Monday, May 20th, 2013

Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is a small charming relaxed  city of about 40,000 inhabitants located in northeastern Morocco  close to Tangiers and Tetouan and the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. It can also be reached from Fes. Chefchaouen is unlike any other town in Morocco and has a laid back charm with buildings painted in many shades of blue in the 1930’s by Jewish refugees. Surrounded by mountains and towered over by twin peaks which give it is name, it is also called  Chaouen by locals.

The city of Chefchaouen was founded in 1471 by Sultan Moulay Ismail.It dominated the mercantile route between Tetouan and Fez and served as a base to counter the Portuguese in Ceuta. During the 15th and 17th century the city prospered and grew in considerable form with the arrival of the Moriscos and Jews who were expelled from Spain in 1494 during the Reconquista. The architecture of Chefchaouen  bears many echos of the Andalusian influence of the period. In 1920, the Spanish seized Chefchaouen to form part of Spanish Morocco.  They were surprised to find the inhabitants speaking a medieval form of Catalan. It was a closed city to Europeans until 1920 and was only visited  in disguise at the risk of one’s life. Charles de Foucauld and Walter Harris were amongst only 3 visitors. Spain returned the city after the independence of Morocco in 1956.

Chefchaouen Sunset

It is a delightfully peaceful city and laid back place with the small medina little more than a village. The buildings are painted blue (this was begun by Jewish refugees in 1930)which adds to the peaceful reflective nature of the environment. Visitors can while  away  the day visiting its souks  where local products especially woven wool and carpets, djellabahs and blankets , wooden furniture and artifacts special to the region  exploring the medina and the 15th Century Mosque, though non believers cannot enter and there is also a mosque dedicated to the patron saint of Northern Morocco’s Jebalah region, Moulay Abdeslam Ben Mchich Alami.   There is also a ruined Spanish replica of a mosque. The main square in the medina is lined with cafes and filled with locals and tourists  mingling easily. Tourists can also visit the Kasbah near Place Outa el Hammam and the museum in the medina. The Kasbah of Chefchaouen belongs to the early 18th century, and was built by the legendary ruler Moulay Ismail It is surrounded by gardens on the interior and exterior. Inside the Kasbah, there is  also the ethnographic museum containing antique weapons, musical instruments, berber artifacts and photographs of the old town.

Tourists can eat outside in one of the local restaurants . There are now a number of excellent restaurants as well as some two hundred hotels of different categories including some boutique riads offering high quality accommodation. After lunch one can go for a guided hike in the close-by green hillsides or for the more energetic climb the hills above Chefchaouen for a wonderful view of the city and surrounding area which is perfect for eco tourism. In the evening it is possible to relax in a hammam, a Moroccan spa experience.  For dinner,  the Restaurant Tissemlal, a beautifully decorated old house with a French-Moroccan set menu is amongst those highly recommended.

Chefchaouen  is a magical place for the traveler  to rest and reflect away from the frenetic activity found in Morocco’s main tourist centers of Marrakech and Fez.  Travellers continue their voyages refereshed and many stay longer than expected.

For More Information on Chefchaouen Tour 

Morocco’s Imperial CitiesSeaside Resorts,Sahara Desert,Berber villagesA Taste of MoroccoMagical Kasbahs, Ruins & WaterfallsAbsolute Morocco, The Best of MarrakechFes, and Ouarzazate
Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration
Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel.We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or + 1 (212) 618882681 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Chefchaouen, Holidays in the Rif Mountains of Morocco, Your Morocco Travel Guide

Thursday, August 19th, 2010
Woman Walking in Chefchaouen

Woman Walking in Chefchaouen

Isolated in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is one of Morocco’s hidden treasures. Chefchaouen is situated in the Rif Mountains, just inland from Tangier and Tetouan making it the perfect Rif Mountain holiday adventure. The city was founded in 1471, as a small fortress which still exists to this day, by Moorish exiles from Spain ed by Moulay Ali Ben Moussa Ben Radhed El Alami to fight the Portuguese invasions of northern Morocco. Chefchaouen was known as one of the main concentrations of Moriscos and Jews who sought refuge in this mountainous city after the Spanish Reconquista in medieval times.

Chefchaouen at Sunset

Chefchaouen at Sunset

This small mountain village sweeps you away into a state of calm with its color scheme that embraces every imaginable shade of blue and is the perfect place to spend a holiday in the Rif Mountains. Bold splashes of cobalt, turquoise, teal, white and starlit blue surround each corner and cobbled alley. Dreamlike and peaceful during the day this blue and white washed city has breathtaking sunsets and offers up a variety of charming Riads, outdoor restaurants with views of the Rif Mountains and is the perfect two or three day excursion from Tangier or Fes.

Chefchaouen Rif Mountain View

Chefchaouen Rif Mountain View

Chefchaouen offers plenty of time to explore its laid-back Medina (old city), drink mint tea or freshly squeezed orange juice, and watch the world go by from one of the cafes in the main square.  Chefchaouen is also a great place for long walks, treks and hikes. Trekking in the Rif Mountains is different then trekking in the High Atlas Mountains of Toukbal for example because the altitudes are lower in the Rif and the mountain ranges tend to be longer and wider with less steep, making it accessible for Moroccan travelers of all ages.

Kasbah in Chefchaouen

Kasbah in Chefchaouen

Must-see destinations include the Central Mosque and the wonderful Kasbah in Chefchaouen, built by the legendary ruler Moulay Ismail near Place Outa el Hammam in the early 18th century. The Kasbah encloses a quiet garden and houses a small museum of ancient pottery and photographs of the traditional dress of Berber tribes. 

Although this lovely haven of Chefchaouen is located just a couple hundred kilometers from the European border, until 1920 Chefchaouen received only three European guests. It was founded in the 15th century and populated by Jewish and Muslim refugees from the Inquisition in Spain and remained an isolated city until the early 20th century.

Chefchaouen Arched Doorway

Chefchaouen Arched Doorway

Chefchaouen has preserved a way of life that flourished in Moorish Spain more than 500 years ago. While the locals are far more reserved then those in larger cities, they are quite friendly and warm. Chefchaouen is one of the main producers of cannabis in Morocco, and the weed is sold all over town. It is essentially legal and smoked by many of the locals, which helps account for this village’s slow pace. It is an intrinsic part of the city life and sold together with herbs, spices and vegetables in the local markets.

Colored Pigment for Sale In Winding Streets of Chaouen

Colored Pigment for Sale In Winding Streets of Chaouen

During a four-day trip from Fes Moroccan travelers explore the Medina in great detail. The entire Medina comes alive in the evening when everybody is shopping or selling goods in the narrow winding streets. On a leisurely stroll throughout the Medina the first thing that can catch anyone’s eyes are the man selling pigment in shades of blue, yellow, pink and orange. The pigment is the same that is used on the walls of the city.

There are shoe cobblers hand making the white and yellow fine leather pointed slippers  (baboosh) worn by the locals along with many beautiful jalabbas sewn with finely embroidered seams and carpenters carving tables and chairs made of fragrant cedar wood. Also available are beautifully hand painted crafts in Chefchaouen such as mirrors with inlaid flowers and a wide variety of furniture displaying delicate Islamic designs. 

One of the most intimate things to do in Chefchaouen is to drop in on a local Berber weaver at his loom and watch while he produces a local style of red and white blankets.

Chefchaouen Wash Basin For Women, Reminiscent Japanese Rock Garden

Chefchaouen Wash Basin For Women, Reminiscent Japanese Rock Garden

If Moroccan travelers continue their exploration to the bottom of the hill in Chefchaouen, they will find women washing laundry in an area that resembles a Japanese garden filled with a variety of stones as well as miniature white open structures surrounded by a number of wide stairs that leads to a dam. 

For a panoramic view, you can hike to the top of Chefchaouen and, as you glide along the small streets, peer downward in search of the stone-carved Hand of Fatima that seems to reappear again and again throughout this blue city.

For more information about traveling to Chefchaouen

For more information about Travel and Tours to Morocco plus highlights on Moroccan culture visit Morocco’s Imperial CitiesSeaside Resorts,Sahara DesertBerber villagesA Taste of MoroccoMagical Kasbahs, Ruins & WaterfallsAbsolute Morocco, The Best of MarrakechFes, and Ouarzazate

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration

Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or 1 (917)703-2078 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

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Tour The Rif Mountains in Chefchaouen Morocco

Sunday, March 22nd, 2009

Chefchaouen

Isolated in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen  is one of Morocco’s great treasures. This small mountain village sweeps you away into a state of calm with its color scheme that embraces every imaginable shade of blue. Bold splashes of cobalt, turquoise, teal, white and starlit blue surround each corner and cobbled alley. Dreamlike and peaceful, the days and nights pass slowly in this intriguing city. Chefchaouen offers plenty of time to explore its laid-back Medina (old city), drink mint tea or freshly squeezed orange juice, and watch the world go by from one of the cafes in the main square. 

Chefchaouen is also a great place for long walks and hikes. Must-see destinations include the Central Mosque and the wonderful Kasbah, built by the legendary ruler Moulay Ismail near Place Outa el Hammam in the early 18th century. The Kasbah encloses a quiet garden and houses a small museum of ancient pottery and photographs of the traditional dress of Berber tribes.

Although this lovely haven is less than 100 km from Europe, until 1920 Chefchaouen received only three European guests. It was founded in the 15th century and populated by Jewish and Muslim refugees from the Inquisition in Spain. Isolated until the early 20th century, Chefchaouen has preserved a way of life that flourished in Moorish Spain more than 500 years ago. While the locals are far more reserved then those in larger cities, they are quite friendly and warm. Chefchaouen is one of the main producers of cannabis in Morocco, and the weed is sold all over town. It is essentially legal and smoked by many of the locals, which helps account for this village’s slow pace. It is an intrinsic part of the city life and sold together with herbs, spices and vegetables in the local markets.

During my four-day trip I had an opportunity to explore the Medina in great detail. The entire Medina comes alive in the evening when everybody is shopping or selling goods in the narrow winding streets. On a leisurely stroll throughout the Medina the first thing that caught my eyes was a man selling pigment in shades of blue, yellow, pink and orange. The pigment is the same that is used on the walls of the city. I also saw cobblers hand making the white and yellow fine leather pointed slippers worn by the locals, many beautiful jalabbas sewn with finely embroidered seams and carpenters carving tables and chairs made of fragrant cedar wood. There are beautifully ordained mirrors with hand-painted flowers and a wide variety of furniture displaying delicate Islamic designs.

One of my favorite moments was watching a Berber weaver at his loom producing a local style of red and white blanket. I also felt nostalgic as I secretly caught a glimpse of women washing laundry in an area which resembled a Japanese garden. It was filled with a variety of stones and pebbles as well as miniature white open structures surrounded by a number of wide stairs that led to a dam.

For a panoramic view, you can hike to the top of Chefchaouen and, as you glide along the small streets, peer downward in search of the stone-carved Hand of Fatima that seems to reappear again and again throughout. 

PLACES TO STAY
Casa Hassan 22 rue Targhi, Chefchaouen. There are seven individually decorated rooms with en-suite bathrooms and an excellent restaurant; it is a gem. Phone: 212 (0)39 98 61 53 Fax:+212 (0)39 98 81 96 ($60-$100 a day for dinner, bed and breakfast. 

The Casbah Operates as a pension and restaurant located north of the main gate of the Medina. ($10 for a single & $20 for a double) 

Dar Terrae Av Hassan I, 070-75-86-87 


PLACES TO EAT 

Restaurant Aladin at Casa Hassan (which also houses an art gallery. A three-course menu will run you $6.00.) 

Patisserie Magou Excellent French croissants and pain au chocolat. Located outside the Medina just below the gate to Bab el Ain. 

Restaurant Alladin, Zenkat el Targui. 

Restaurant el Baraka Rue Sidi Salem 

TRANSPORTATION 

Chefchaouen can be reached by bus or a taxi from Tetuan and Fez. The bus station is at the lower edge of the town, a half-hour uphill walk to the Medina.

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Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Google on call Travel Exploration at (917)703-2078 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

The Blue And White City- An Exploration Of Morocco’s Rif Mountains

Tuesday, February 10th, 2009

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Slightly out of breath from the long trek up the mountainside you look up ahead and see that it is not too much further. You pass a goat herder who, despite his age, does not seem to be feeling the effects of the climb as much as you are, he nods and smiles kindly as you pass by. Determined to make it all the way you put your head down and trudge those last few yards, turning around you suddenly forget your aching muscles and try to take in the scene.

The view from the mountainside is breathtaking. The whitewashed houses of Chefchaouen sparkle in the sunlight dotted with vivid blues, reds, and oranges from carpets and clothes hanging out to dry. All around the village goats and their herders wander aimlessly under the herder dogs’ watchful eye. Sipping on the famed Rif Mountain water you sit back contentedly and watch as this beautiful day passes.

Chefchaouen is a picturesque village built into the Rif Mountains in Morocco. With its characteristic whitewashed buildings and brightly painted blue doors this little village is a must-see for travelers. While certainly a popular spot for visitors many find that Chefchaouen has been able to maintain its traditional Moroccan identity and the cafes and restaurants serve authentic food and drink from the region. The spot is also popular with backpackers and many younger travelers because of the relatively inexpensive hotels and hostels available.

A recent traveler to Chefchaouen was told by a local that when a road or a flight of stairs are painted blue, rather than the traditional white, it means that they lead to a dead-end. Locals found that because the village is built up into the side of a mountain it is very hard to see where you are going so they solved this problem by painting the road or stairs a brilliant bright blue! A very creative and certainly very beautiful alternative to street signs!

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Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Google on call Travel Exploration at 1800-787-8806 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.