Imperial cities & Middle Atlas
Ifrane & Middle Atlas
The "Switzerland of Morocco": cedar forests, lakes and winter snow.
Built in the 1930s with alpine-style chalets, Ifrane sits at about 1,650 m in the Middle Atlas and is one of the cleanest and coolest towns in Morocco — a summer escape and a winter snow destination.
The surrounding cedar forests near Azrou are home to the endangered Barbary macaque, and volcanic lakes dot the plateau.
Highlights
The town’s symbol, carved during the colonial era.
Ancient Atlas cedars and wild Barbary macaques.
Lake in the forest, good for walks and birdlife when water levels allow.
English-language university with an attractive campus.
Things to do
- Nature & wildlifeBarbary macaques — See them in the wild — do not feed them.
- Snow & skiSnow and ski — Small ski slopes at Michlifen when snow conditions allow (usually January–February).
- GolfMountain golf — Golf course at Michlifen among cedars.
- Mountains & trekkingMiddle Atlas hikes — Forest trails, lakes and the Ain Vittel spring.
Where to stay
Mountain resorts and hotels in Ifrane, or guesthouses around Azrou.
Michlifen Resort & Golf
LuxuryAlpine-style mountain resort among cedar forests, with golf and spa.
- Address
- Avenue Hassan II, BP 18, 53000 Ifrane
- Phone
- +212 535 864 000
- [email protected]
- Website
- michlifen.com
Contact details come from the hotels’ official websites or consistent public listings. We are not paid for listings. Always confirm prices and conditions directly with the property.
Getting there
About an hour by road from Fes (around 60 km). Grands taxis and buses connect Ifrane with Fes and Meknes.
Local tip
Winter roads can be snowy: check conditions and carry warm clothes.