Experiencing the Other Side of Morocco in Chefchaouen

Picture this: you're tired of the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, the snake charmers have lost their charm, and the smelly tanneries in Fes are making your nose hairs curl. Well, my friends, it's time to head up north to the mountainous, blue-hued haven of Chefchaouen, where the streets are as blue as your aunt's hair after a mid-life crisis and the locals are friendlier than that guy at the youth hostel who won't stop talking about his gap year in Tibet.

The Most Instagrammable City in Morocco

With its narrow, winding streets, bright blue buildings, and backdrop of the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a sight for sore eyes...and by sore, I mean those accustomed to the smog of Casablanca or the dust clouds in the Sahara. Really, you don't know the true meaning of the word "blue" until you've wandered the streets of this charming little town, where you can snap enough Instagram-worthy shots to convince your followers that you've single-handedly discovered a long-lost Moroccan Atlantis. Or, at the very least, make them question your sudden obsession with the color blue.

A Smorgasbord of Delights

While the blue streets might be the main attraction, you'll soon find that Chefchaouen has more to offer than just an endless supply of blue paint. For starters, the food here is enough to make your taste buds sing the Moroccan national anthem. Between the steaming tagines, fresh goat cheese, and fluffy couscous, you'll find yourself in culinary heaven. Just remember to loosen your belt a few notches before you sit down to eat. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can sample the local specialty: Bissara soup, made from dried fava beans and topped with a healthy dose of olive oil. Just don't blame me if you develop a sudden, inexplicable craving for hummus.

Shopping, Minus the Salesmen Shenanigans

Anyone who's been to a Moroccan souk knows that haggling is not just a game, it's a full-contact sport. But in Chefchaouen, the shopping experience is delightfully laid-back and devoid of the aggressive sales tactics that you might find in Marrakech or Fes. Here, you can peruse the artisanal shops and pick up some local treasures without feeling like you've just entered a gladiator arena. And if you're in the market for an authentic Moroccan rug, this is the place to find one without having to sell your firstborn child or mortgage your house back home.

Ancient History Beckons

For the history buffs among you, there's plenty to see beyond the blue streets. The town was founded in 1471 as a fortress, and the ancient Kasbah still stands as a testament to the town's rich past. Inside, you'll find a garden oasis, a small ethnographic museum, and a dungeon that will make you grateful for not being an unruly citizen in the 15th century.

And if your inner Indiana Jones is still not satisfied, you can visit the nearby archaeological site of Volubilis, a Roman city that was once the administrative capital of the region. Just don't expect to find any lost arks or hidden treasures...or snakes. Why did it have to be snakes?

Get Ready to Hike

Should you tire of lounging in cafés, feasting on Moroccan delights, and strolling through the cobblestone streets, there's plenty of adventure to be had in the surrounding countryside. The Rif Mountains offer a wealth of hiking trails, ranging from leisurely strolls to heart-pounding, sweat-inducing treks. Just make sure to pack your sunscreen, as the sun can be merciless in these parts, and leave your high heels at home. Trust me, you don't want to be that person hobbling down a mountain in stilettos.

Just Say No to the Green Stuff

Now, I would be remiss if I didn't mention one of the less savory aspects of Chefchaouen: the prevalence of cannabis. You see, the town is situated in the heart of Morocco's cannabis-growing region, and as such, you'll likely be offered the "green stuff" more than a few times during your stay. While some visitors might enjoy partaking in the local product, I must do my due diligence and remind you that it is, in fact, illegal in Morocco. So proceed with caution, and remember that getting arrested in a foreign country is a surefire way to ruin your vacation.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking for a picturesque escape from the chaos of Morocco's bigger cities, a chance to indulge in delicious food, or an opportunity to brush up on your history, Chefchaouen is the place to be. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare to experience the other side of Morocco. Just don't forget your sense of humor and a healthy appreciation for the color blue.

Article kindly provided by myfavouritehols.com