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CHEFCHAOUEN
aBOUT the CITY
Nestled in the foothills of the Rif mountains, around twenty miles from the Mediterranean coast, is Chefchaouen (sometimes just ‘Chaouen’). Known as ‘Morocco’s Blue City’ people visit from all around to walk through the town and see the vividly painted buildings, alleys and even paths. After a rain shower the wet blue walls glisten, and throughout the day the town glows in different shades from subtle aquamarine to vivid Majorelle blue as the sun travels through the sky and the light changes. It’s a wonderful experience and a sight you’re unlikely to see anywhere else.
Chefchaouen is somewhere where you can enjoy a real, authentic experience of Morocco, with traditional markets, hammams and restaurants to enjoy. It’s ideally placed for venturing out into the countryside too; as well as the beautiful Rif mountain range you have the Jebel Bouhachem Nature Reserve on your doorstep, and the Talassemtane National Park on the other side of the town. Whether it’s the influence of being surrounded by nature, the cool blue walls or the natural hospitableness of the Moroccan character, Chefchaouen is famous for being a friendly, relaxed place to visit. It’s certainly somewhere you don’t want to miss on your next visit to Morocco.
selected experiences
CHEFCHAOUEN FOOD AND DRINK
Food in Chefchaouen is a treat for your tastebuds … and your eyes … and your nose…
Every day the scent of baking bread and aromatic herbs fills the streets as dozens of bakers and chefs start work, their wood-fired ovens producing bread, tagines and other tantalising dishes. Their wares are soon available to sample, whether from street food vendors or the many restaurants that can be found up and down the twisting turning alleyways.
As is the Moroccan way, most meals are flavoured with a selection of spices, often turmeric, paprika, cumin and more, to give them that distinctive North African quality. At the same time there is a distinct Rif vibe to the food, with local variations on Moroccan themes that keep it distinct. Fresh is always the order of the day, with locally ingredients used as much as possible to ensure the quality and the taste. The goat’s cheese in particular is a delicacy that is only available in the Chefchaouen area.
CHEFCHAOUEN HERITAGE
Chefchaouen was founded in 1471 by Jews and Moors fleeing from the Reconquista of Spain, and it was later to provide a Jewish refuge once again, this time in the 20th century, acting as a sanctuary against their Nazi persecutors. This second influx of Jewish settlers are thought to be the instigators of Chefchaouen’s most salient feature – blue is a holy colour in Judaism, a reminder of God’s glory – and despite the majority of Jews moving to Israel in 1948, the people of Chefchaouen still repaint the town every year to maintain its famous blue hue.
The town is a fantastic example of how an Andalucian settlement would have looked in Moorish times. At the centre of Chefchaouen is the 500 year old fortress that the rest of the town grew from. Inside is an ethnographic museum where you can see pictures of historic Chefchouen, and you can look round the old prison and climb a tower to give you a spectacular view of the town today.
CHEFCHAOUEN SHOPPING
Chefchaouen medina is a treasure trove of goods just waiting to be uncovered. An unbelievable array of wares are on display here, from brass kitchenware to Moroccan slippers to clay pots to brightly patterned carpets to expertly crafted leather goods. It’s like stepping back in time.
Just like everywhere else in Morocco, haggling is the order of the day. You’ll be expected to barter for your purchases, the offer and counteroffer is all part of the experience and real fun can be had once you get into the swing of things, and who knows? You may turn out to be a natural and come away with a host of bargains. Just don’t forget a shukran (thank you) when you leave.
CHEFCHAOUEN TREKKING
If you’re any sort of walker then you won’t be able to resist the lure of the Rif mountains that surround Chefchaouen. Take a day hike or a longer trek and you’ll enjoy some fantastic walking and amazing views. At higher elevations the slopes are dusted with snow, and the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean can be seen on clear days.
The nearby Talassemtane National Park is also a must visit. Lush green valleys, burbling rivers and rushing waterfalls await you in this beautiful part of the kingdom that covers over 580 square kilometres. God’s Bridge is one of the highlights here – a natural red stone arch that crosses the river fifty feet below.
As with most places in Morocco there are professional companies who are happy to offer tours that are tailor-made to your wishes and your abilities. Run by local experts they can safely show you all the best views and the secrets that you would never find on your own.
top hotels in cHEFCHAOUEN
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Treat yourself to a stay in one of the 24 guestrooms, featuring heated floors. Your room comes with a pillowtop bed. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Conveniences include minibars and a turndown service, and housekeeping is provided daily. Stop by the guesthouse’s restaurant for lunch or dinner, or grab snacks at the 2 coffee shops/cafés. A complimentary full breakfast is served daily from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM.
Location : Google Map
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Situated in Chefchaouene, 300 metres from Kasba and 300 metres from Outa El Hammam Square, Hotel Princesse Ilham features river views and free WiFi.
There is a fully equipped private bathroom with shower and free toiletries.
Guests at the bed and breakfast can enjoy a continental breakfast.
Hotel Princesse Ilham offers a terrace.
A car rental service is available at the accommodation.
Mohammed 5 Square is 1.2 km from Hotel Princesse Ilham, while Khandak Semmar is 2 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sania Ramel, 47 km from the bed and breakfast, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Location : Google Map
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Lina Ryad & Spa is located in the heart of Chefchaouen and offers a rooftop terrace with a view on the Medina. The on-site spa center features an indoor pool, a hammam and a hot tub.
With views of the mountains or Medina, the air-conditioned suites at Lina Ryad & Spa are elegantly decorated and include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and a seating area. They each have a private bathroom with a bath or shower and free toiletries.
Traditional Moroccan cuisine can be served in the dining area upon request and a continental breakfast is prepared daily. Guests are invited to relax on the patio or in one of the 3 lounge areas.
The host can also help organize excursions, city visits and on-site massages. The property is a 1-hour drive from Oued Laou and Tétouan and 16 mi from Bab Taza.
This is our guests’ favorite part of Chefchaouen, according to independent reviews.
Location : Google Map
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Located in Chefchaouen, a 4-minute walk from Kasba, Dar ELBAKKALI features rooms with garden views and free WiFi. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The property has a 24-hour front desk, and currency exchange for guests.
At the guesthouse, all rooms have a closet. Rooms are complete with a private bathroom equipped with a shower, while some rooms at Dar ELBAKKALI also have a seating area. All rooms will provide guests with a fridge.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Outa El Hammam Square, Mohammed 5 Square and Khandak Semmar. The nearest airport is Sania Ramel Airport, 69.2 km from Dar ELBAKKALI.
This is our guests’ favorite part of Chefchaouen, according to independent reviews.
Location : Google Map
Contact us
enquiry@specialmorocco.com
07 rue Tarablous, QI 80000
AGADIR, MOROCCO
+1 763 219 8777 ( US )
+212 698 193 183 ( MOROCCO )
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