Barbary Apes can be found in the Mid Atlas

 

 

Mid Atlas scenery near Beni Mellal

 

Barbary Apes, seen in the Cedar Forest near Azrou

 

Ouzoud village

 

Mid Atlas Mountains

(Ouzoud, Ifrane, Midelt, Afourer)

Winter near Ifrane
Mid Atlas views
telephone. 01989 730552

The Mid Atlas Mountains, between Fez and Marrakech, offer excellent trekking and a limited ski season at Ifrane as well as a scenic drive from one to the other. These mountains should not be overlooked, particularly by those choosing self-drive itineraries for their holidays as the places featured here offer an ideal stop off between Fez and the desert region, a route that can be covered in a day but, if you have the time we thoroughly recommend breaking your journey to enable you to spend more time in this lesser-visited region of Morocco.

The region is the result of an Arab-Berber melting pot which has influenced its crafts, cuisineand architecture. An enlightening example of this architecture is the circular fortified clay storage area in the village of Sidi Moussa. These ancient grain stores characterize the rural life of the surroundings. The inhabitants, shepherds and farmers, launched themselves into honey, nut oil and cheese production. Women's associations and cooperatives grouping together several villages are open to the public. Feel free to step into one of the tighermts, the old tribal leaders' castles. Although the walls are made from adobe or stone, the internal decoration in wood is often skillfully painted with a variety of patterns. And you will understand why the hospitality of the region's inhabitants is so famous.

Activities in the region are numerous; within the Mid Atlas is the Cedar forest (near Azrou) which is a great place for a day's hike and don't miss the Barbary apes who are very friendly, particularly if you have some fruit for them. The Aït Bouguemez valley, also called the Happy Valley, is suited to walking, mule rides and mountain-biking. The second-highest summit in Morocco, an ascent of Mount M’Goun (4068m) takes six days. The less technical Arous gorges can also be climbed. With its waterfalls and numerous section of white water, the region is ideal for enjoying kayaking, rafting and canyoning. On the beautiful Bin el Ouidane lake, 27km north of Azilal, many water sports such as jet-skiing and windsurfing are practiced. Finally, take advantage of a stop at Beni Mellal to swim in the Aïn Asserdoune springs.

     
Cascades at Ouzoud in the Mid Atlas
Ifrane in winter
the highway between the Mid and High Atlas, near Midelt
The Riad Cascades D'Ouzoud is dramatically perched at the top of a waterfall offering views down onto the River Ouzoud, a fast-flowing river bringing water to the surrounding valleys and their almond and olive trees.
A ski resort in the Mid Atlas, just a short drive from Fez (90 mins). There is also good walking in the area and Ifrane is worth a night if you are able to take your time between Fez and Marrakech or on a journey to the south of Morocco.
Midelt is mid-way between Fez and the desert and is a popular overnight stay en route. It is also a useful base to explore the lesser-visited areas of the Eastern High Atlas. We recommend the Kasbah Asmaa.
other options in the Mid Atlas region:
Afourer  (near Beni Mellal)
   
 

A perfect stop en route from Fez or Meknes to Marrakech. The journey between the north and south is quite long and we are happy to recommend this friendly hotel at the 'half-way' point so that you are able to enjoy the journey at a sensible pace, particularly in winter when there is less daylight.

Family run hospitality awaits you in the heart of the gorgeous Middle Atlas Mountains. The hotel is furnished with both modern furniture and Moroccan decorative style. Take advantage of the Spa centre, the sporting activities and enjoy a unique swimming pool in the middle of a huge garden.
   
   

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