Tucked away in the Rif Mountains, this sleepy town was exactly what the doctor ordered when we recently visited. Drenched in every shade of blue imaginable, this is a place where life feels softer, slower, and almost too dreamy to be real.
A City Painted in Sky and Sea
The moment you step into Chefchaouen, you’re wrapped in an endless sea of blue. Powdery sky-blues melt into deep cobalt doors, indigo staircases twist into hidden courtyards, and the entire medina glows in the soft morning light. The origins of this vibrant color palette remain a mystery—some say it was introduced by Jewish refugees seeking peace, others believe it was meant to ward off mosquitoes. But one thing is certain: it transforms Chefchaouen into a place like no other.
A Medina Made for Wandering
Chefchaouen’s medina invites you to slow down. No rush, no agenda—just the joy of discovery. The scent of freshly baked msemen (Moroccan pancakes) and simmering tagines drifts through the streets- my personal favourite being the sardine tagine and you have to try the famous goats cheese salad of Chefchaouen! Tangy, fresh and just oh so good!
Magic Beyond the Medina
For those craving adventure, the town is just the beginning. A short climb to the Spanish Mosque at sunset reveals a breathtaking view—Chefchaouen glowing golden beneath the fading sky, the Rif Mountains stretching endlessly beyond. If you’re up for more, the Akchour Waterfalls offer a refreshing escape, with emerald pools and lush trails that feel like a hidden paradise.
You will notice something else about this incredible region—rolling hills blanketed in cannabis farms. The Rif region has long been Morocco’s hashish capital, producing some of the world’s finest kif for centuries. While technically illegal, cannabis farming is deeply ingrained in the local culture, and many farmers openly sell their product to those in the know. It’s no secret—curious travellers can easily find themselves on a tour of the lush green farms, learning about the traditional cultivation process and even sampling the region’s famous hash. Whether you partake or not, it’s a fascinating glimpse into a way of life that’s as much a part of Chefchaouen as its incredible fairytale blue streets.
