Chefchaouen

Regions beyond Fez are worth discovering. Fez Guided Tours proposes day trips – with English speaking drivers- to Meknes with Volubilis ruins, the Middle Atlas Mountains, Sefrou with Bhalil, and Chefchaouen in the heart of the Rif Mountains. Further afield from Fez and just south of the Mediterranean coastline lies the ‘Blue City’ of Morocco, Chefchaouen. Explore the white and blue washed walls of the Medina and try the local goat’s cheese ...

Chefchaouen or Chaouen, as it is often called by Moroccans, is a popular tourist destination because of its proximity to Tangier and the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The name refers to the shape of the mountain tops above the town, that look like the two horns that mean “Achewen” or “Ichawen” in Berber. One distinction possessed by Chefchaouen is its blue-rinsed houses and buildings.

The main square is the heart of Chefchaouen, with the Kasbah (built back in the 18th century), central mosque and cafes with authentic Moroccan style menus. The market is a mix of traditional Moroccan and tourist souvenirs, very busy but worth a visit. The town is easy to explore and the old Kasbah is worth a visit. Built by Moulay Ismail, it is now practically a ruin, and next to it is the Great Mosque. Although the medina is small, walk on to the main square and the souks, that sell an array of local goods. If you head on to the Jewish quarter behind the jewellery souk, you will feel the difference between it and the main Arabic feel of the town. Enjoy a walk in the surrounding countryside – whatever you choose, Chefchaouen is perfect for a relaxed day of sightseeing.