Middle Atlas

The cedar forests and rolling hills of the Middle Atlas represent a natural environment that is unique in Morocco. These mountains contain countless opportunities for skiing, trekking and otherwise adventuring outdoors. The biggest settlement and primary access point is Azrou, a cheerful Berber town famous for its woven carpets. The more fèted destination is Ifrane, an alpine-style resort that was built by the French in the 1930s. Ifrane is sometimes called the "Geneva of Morocco" for its red-roofed houses, blooming flowerbeds and lake-studded parks. Indeed, during the winter ski season and on summer weekends, well-to-do Moroccans ...

The cedar forests and rolling hills of the Middle Atlas represent a natural environment that is unique in Morocco. These mountains contain countless opportunities for skiing, trekking and otherwise adventuring outdoors. The biggest settlement and primary access point is Azrou, a cheerful Berber town famous for its woven carpets. The more fèted destination is Ifrane, an alpine-style resort that was built by the French in the 1930s. Ifrane is sometimes called the "Geneva of Morocco" for its red-roofed houses, blooming flowerbeds and lake-studded parks. Indeed, during the winter ski season and on summer weekends, well-to-do Moroccans come here to hit the slopes or escape the heat of the plains. In the surrounding countryside, pine and cedar forests are home to troupes of Barbary apes, while the lakes attract ample bird life.

About the Expert

Mara Vorhees has written or contributed to many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including Brazil and Morocco.