Chefchaouen, The Blue Pearl



When it comes to color theory, nothing beats the blue everything of Chefchaouen.

Panoramic of The Blue Pearl

Annie and I rented a car in Tangier so after our favorite taxi driver drove us from Asilah to the Tangier airport, we were ready for the next adventure.

I'll admit, I was a little nervous about renting a car and driving in Morocco again (full disclosure: Annie did ALL of the driving because she loves driving on vacation and I was an A+ navigator) but Avis hooked us up with a diesel Volkswagon Jetta, stylish and practical, and we were headed out on the about 2.5 hour drive to the mountains.  

Note: Moroccans drive on the right and the roads were in excellent condition.


One of the most famous (and most photographed) blue cities in the world, Chefchaouen lived up to its hype not only because of the endless shades of blue, but also because of its hospitality and wonderful people we encountered during our stay.

alley views from our roof

Our AirBnb was more traditional compared to our palace in Asilah.  And our host, Marlies, was incredible.  Do you ever meet people that you could just chat with for days?  That was Marlies. 

Loved this tile in the sitting room between the bedrooms

If you're considering making the trek to Chefchaouen, I'd definitely recommend you book with Marleis & Emmanuelle.  Here is the link to the Airbnb: Dar Tsuli

Rooftop Mountain View

One note about reaching the AirBnb (most likely true for most accommodations) - be prepared to climb quite a few stairs to reach your dwelling, pack light, you will not want to drag your luggage uphill!!!

rooftop deck, perfect nap spot

Merchandised walkways

Obviously, wandering around all this blue was the favorite.  There seemed to no end to the alleyways, little shops, tucked away bakeries, and all the calming shades of sky and turquoise.  While we were exploring, a local started chatting with us telling us things to see.  He then gave us an impromptu tour, pointing out spots and landmarks not to miss, and recommended a delicious restaurant for dinner.  We thanked him and when we went to tip him, he was gone!  

The Spanish Mosque, Chefchaouen

Our host recommended hiking up to an old Spanish Mosque, the trailhead was right out our door.  It was about a 25 minute walk uphill to reach the top - the trail did keep going but we got a late start to our hike and decided to head back down the mountain and find a fun place for dinner.

goats on the way to the Spanish Mosque
Annie and I taking in the views on the hike to the Spanish Mosque

Enjoying a bowl of harira at Casa Hassan, a gorgeous hotel/restaurant.  Harira is a traditional Moroccan tomato based soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and herbs.  There are many variations but it is always delicious!

That time the owner walked up and caught us admiring his door!!!

can't forget about all of the adorable kitties

These two not so much, their constant fighting kept me awake at night!

Inspiration around every corner - I can't wait to have my own house to cover in tile

There are many different theories on why Chefchaouen is painted blue.  These theories range from the Jewish tradition of blue representing the sky, to keeping mosquitoes away, to have a cooling effect, to representing the color of water.  

a quiet, crooked alley
Chefchaouen was founded in 1471 and it is believed the painting began back then.  Whatever the reason(s), this picturesque city situated in the Rif Mountains is one not to miss.  

Thank you for following along!

Up Next: Essaouira and why I'm an AVIS customer for life

Natalie 

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