Ifrane, Morocco's "Little Switzerland

When you arrive in Ifrane, especially in winter, you really feel as if you've moved to another country. Here, the houses have sloping roofs, the palm trees have given way to plane trees and there is little or nothing to remind you of Morocco, apart from the occasional minaret.

The region has been inhabited for centuries, but the town of Ifrane as we know it today was built by the French during the protectorate in the 1930s. It was then a small winter sports and hiking resort. The town was nicknamed the Little Switzerland of Morocco!

The architecture here is so unique to Morocco, because the intention at the time was that no French person should feel out of place. That's why you'll see roofs typical of various French regions, such as a half-timbered house that will remind you more of Alsace than Morocco!

Ifrane can be visited all year round and has two different faces, both equally charming! In summer, you can enjoy the cool climate when Fès and the surrounding area suffer from stifling heat. Ideal for some great hiking! In winter, temperatures often drop below 0°C, the snow shows its face and... you can go skiing!

Even back then, Ifrane was conceived as a mountain resort where colonial families came on holiday all year round. Nowadays, it's the more affluent Moroccan families who make the most of this truly unexpected place, in summer and winter alike!

The Ifrane National Park, with its 53,000 hectares, is majestic and home to the largest cedar forest in the world - a real wonder to behold! Created in 2004 to protect this unique ecosystem, the park is a magnificent playground for hiking enthusiasts.

To immerse yourself in the immensity of this cedar forest, head for Azrou, a few kilometres from Ifrane. Right in the middle of this "kingdom of cedars", the star of the forest is the Gouraud cedar! It is estimated to be 800 years old and is said to be the largest in Morocco. Although there may be even bigger cedars to be found in the Middle Atlas, you have to admit that this one is gigantic!

Another interesting feature of this forest is the Barbary macaques. They are often numerous at the foot of the Gouraud cedar and are not very shy, as they are fed by tourists (which we do not recommend, of course!). But it's also possible to come across some wilder ones in the forest. With their beautiful fur, these monkeys are not afraid of the cold in snowy weather, and are fascinating to watch. But be careful, as these animals can be quite unpredictable.

The region is also known for its many lakes, including some of the most famous in Morocco. Particularly popular in summer, a trip to one of these lakes is a real breath of fresh air in the sweltering heat of the city. Take a trip to Lake Dayet Aoua, just 15km from Ifrane. This pretty lake is perched at an altitude of 1460 metres and is surrounded by forests.

For a snack or a meal on a budget, head to the market, where you'll find a number of small restaurants and fast food outlets. For a more elegant dinner in front of the open fire, head to the upper part of the town, near the lion statue. You'll have a choice of restaurants and hotels with a wider price range and more international cuisine.

But for a gastronomic experience, head to the Michlifen Resort & Golf hotel, with its four restaurants, including one serving traditional Moroccan dishes. A memorable culinary experience!

At the Michlifen Resort & Golf! This resort, perched at an altitude of 1650 metres, has all the assets of a luxury hotel, but in chalet style. The atmosphere is refined and warm, the views of the surrounding countryside are breathtaking, and the hotel has several swimming pools, a tennis court and a 3,500m2 spa. In short, a chic & chill stay!