Chefchaouen Morocco's Blue City in the Rif Mountains

Founded in 1471 as a small mountain fortress, Chefchaouen grew into a town of Andalusian character, settled by Muslim and Jewish families arriving from Spain. Its famous blue came later and has many stories behind it; today the town keeps the tradition alive, repainting its lanes and doorways so that every turn looks freshly washed.

What makes Chefchaouen special is its pace. After the energy of Marrakech or the vast medina of Fes, this is a place to wander without a map, sit in the main square with mint tea and watch the evening light turn the mountains gold. The medina is compact, safe to explore on foot and full of small workshops selling wool blankets, woven baskets and leather.

It also sits at the edge of real wilderness. Talassemtane National Park, with cedar and fir forest, deep gorges and traditional mountain villages, begins just outside town, which makes Chefchaouen a natural pause on a road trip through northern Morocco.

Spring (April to June) brings wildflowers and comfortable hiking weather; autumn (September to November) is golden and mild. Summer days are warm but cooler than the interior, while winter nights in the mountains are chilly and occasionally snowy. Compare the whole region in when to go.

Living and investing: northern Morocco's appeal is growing with high-speed rail and new roads; our Morocco Luxury Real Estate guide covers how foreigners buy property in the kingdom.