Chefchaouen, nicknamed “Chaouen” by Moroccans, is positioned 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 all the pieces within the city, making it appear like a village out of fairy tales, a dreamy environment with a chill feeling. Chefchaouen is in style amongst backpackers, hikers and Nature lovers chasing hidden gems, nonetheless, the city is a bit arduous to get to, and cautious street planning is required in order that travellers gained’t go off the street.

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Historical past

Chefchaouen isn’t simply identified for magnificence, the city has a wealthy historical past that goes again to 1471 when Moorish and Jewish folks fled to flee the Reconquista of Spain.
Jewish folks believed that the blue colour represents the sky, and is due to this fact and reminder of heaven and God, which is why Jewish communities painted partitions and flooring in blue. Due to that, folks consider that the Jews had been those who launched Chefchaouen to the blue colour and made it that approach, nonetheless, locals declare that solely previous elements in town, known as Medina, had been lined in blue, older generations even declare that the city was white of their youthful years.

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Tourism

It’s solely not too long ago that Chefchaouen gained worldwide consideration as a journey vacation spot because of the extensive protection by visually-based social media functions resembling Instagram and Pinterest. Nonetheless, there isn’t any cause why it shouldn’t be in your 10 day Morocco itinerary. Earlier than, the city was simply what it’s, a hidden gem identified principally by Northern Moroccans; at present, the small city is welcoming vacationers, some even consider that Chefchaouen retains its blue colour 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 Sights

The waterfall of Ras El Ma is the preferred 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 may be additionally Bridge of God, a rock arch spanning the river with an inspiring view.

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What To Do

The most well-liked exercise amongst vacationers is purchasing, and it’s no shock. Chefchaouen is dwelling to spectacular souks. Not like main cities like Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech, the place purchasing is usually a tiring expertise and the retailers try to persuade you to buy one thing, Chefchaouen is peaceable and bother with purchasing could be very uncommon.

The city will appear extra heavenly to you when you’re a fan of cats. Cats and kittens wander the land freely and calmly, and so they’re typically seen round strolling or enjoyable, so be certain to offer it a attempt to pet them!
In case you’re planning on shopping for souvenirs then be certain to go to the previous city or Medina and try the mesmerising conventional souks, that’s the place it’s best to do your purchasing expertise by buying leather-based merchandise made by locals.

Lodges and Eating places

Dar Echchaouen is among 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 evaluations is Casa Hassan, it’s on the centre of previous Medina with a novel structure. It provides rooftops terraces and rooms with a fire.

As for eating places, Restaurant Aladdin is a must-see, the menu provides a global choice of dishes, together with Moroccan meals after all. It has a romantic really feel and beautiful terraces which will be admired.
Restaurant Marisco can also be price seeing, positioned within the sq. of the town, one can benefit from the glorious regional meals whereas watching the bustle of the town.