Chefchaouen, nicknamed “Chaouen” by Moroccans, is situated in North Morocco within the Rif Mountains, in contrast to Casablanca and Marrakech, Chefchaouen is a laid-back fairly city well-known of its pure surroundings and the blue paint which covers every part within the city, making it appear to be a village out of fairy tales, a dreamy ambiance with a chill feeling. Chefchaouen is common amongst backpackers, hikers and Nature lovers chasing hidden gems, nonetheless, the city is a bit onerous to get to, and cautious street planning is required in order that travellers received’t go off the street.
Historical past
Chefchaouen isn’t simply recognized for magnificence, the city has a wealthy historical past that goes again to 1471 when Moorish and Jewish individuals fled to flee the Reconquista of Spain.
Jewish individuals believed that the blue coloration represents the sky, and is subsequently and reminder of heaven and God, which is why Jewish communities painted partitions and flooring in blue. Due to that, individuals consider that the Jews had been those who launched Chefchaouen to the blue coloration and made it that approach, nonetheless, locals declare that solely outdated elements in town, referred to as Medina, had been coated in blue, older generations even declare that the city was white of their youthful years.
Tourism
It’s solely just lately that Chefchaouen gained worldwide consideration as a journey vacation spot as a result of large protection by visually-based social media purposes reminiscent of Instagram and Pinterest. Nonetheless, there isn’t a cause why it shouldn’t be in your 10 day Morocco itinerary. Earlier than, the city was simply what it’s, a hidden gem recognized principally by Northern Moroccans; at present, the small city is welcoming vacationers, some even consider that Chefchaouen retains its blue coloration and cherishes it for the vacationers who come particularly to see it. The locals are very hospitable, as is most of Morocco’s inhabitants.
Pure Points of interest
The waterfall of Ras El Ma is the most well-liked pure panorama in Chefchaouen, it’s the place the water comes gushing out of the mountain, and it’s simply past the gate of the city. There’s additionally Bridge of God, a rock arch spanning the river with an inspiring view.
What To Do
The preferred exercise amongst vacationers is procuring, and it’s no shock. Chefchaouen is house to spectacular souks. Not like main cities like Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech, the place procuring is usually a tiring expertise and the retailers try to persuade you to buy one thing, Chefchaouen is peaceable and hassle with procuring could be very uncommon.
The city will appear extra heavenly to you in the event you’re a fan of cats. Cats and kittens wander the land freely and calmly, they usually’re usually seen round strolling or stress-free, so ensure that to offer it a attempt to pet them!
In the event you’re planning on shopping for souvenirs then ensure that to go to the outdated city or Medina and try the mesmerising conventional souks, that’s the place you must do your procuring expertise by buying leather-based merchandise made by locals.
Inns and Eating places
Dar Echchaouen is likely one of the city’s highest rated inns, it’s near Ras El Ma and has glorious lodging, the structure is conventional and spectacular, the resort additionally has a pool and a pleasant restaurant. One other nice resort with optimistic critiques is Casa Hassan, it’s on the centre of outdated Medina with a novel structure. It gives rooftops terraces and rooms with a hearth.
As for eating places, Restaurant Aladdin is a must-see, the menu gives a global collection of dishes, together with Moroccan meals after all. It has a romantic really feel and lovely terraces which could be admired.
Restaurant Marisco can be price seeing, situated within the sq. of the town, one can benefit from the glorious regional meals whereas watching the bustle of the town.
