Frequently called the Switzerland of Morocco, Ifrane is one of the country’s best kept secrets.
This is one of the most beautiful places in Morocco and perfect for those who enjoy an active holiday or spectacular scenery.
Set at an altitude of 1,650 meters, Ifrane was built by the French in the 1930’s and became a popular hill station to escape the heat of Fes or Meknes. It’s located in the Middle Atlas regions, between Fez and Azrou. The drive from Fez is around 45 minutes.
After independence the Moroccans moved to Ifrane and the town is now a popular year round destination.
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Things to Do in Ifrane
Ifrane, this charming little town has acquired the title of “The Switzerland of Morocco” due to the alpine-style architecture, European-like chalets, and the frosty landscape with its ski slopes, gushing waterfalls, and vibrant leafy forests.
Here are the top things to do in Ifrane, Morocco.
Michlifen Ski Resort
During the winter months, thousands of Moroccans head out to Michlifen for some skiing, sledding, and snowboarding. With one kilometer of slopes, the station is always bustling with kids and adults alike.
You can find visitors enjoying the immaculate mountainous scenery, building snowmen, and engaging in snowball fights.
The Michlifen ski resort is located about 10 kilometers from Ifrane, but it’s easily accessible either by car or by taxi. Renting ski equipment is very affordable ($6 for a couple of hours or $24 for the entire day).
If you want to bask in the alpine charm of Michlifen and enjoy the magnificent view from above, you can get on the ski lift.
Lake Dait Aoua
Dait Aoua is the ideal place to indulge in some fun water activities. Hop in a pedal boat to get a closer look at the serene body of water and enjoy the enchanting view of the frosty mountains in the background.
Ride a horse and take a stroll alongside the shores of the lake. Breathe in the crisp and invigorating air of Ifrane and relish the peace and quiet of the picturesque surroundings.
Enjoy the company of birdlife and take a moment to feed the friendly ducks swimming around.
Al Akhawayn University
Al Akhawayn University was founded by Morocco’s former king Hassan II in 1993 (by royal decree) and officially inaugurated in 1995. The university is English language-centered and boasts more than 2,100 full-time students.
If you enjoy visiting school facilities, you wouldn’t want to miss this one.
Al Akhawayn’s campus is quite impressive, with a large number of amenities, including a swimming pool, a health center, several restaurants, and auditoriums. You can call the university ahead of time to schedule a proper tour of the establishment.
You can also inquire about short-term housing options if you plan on staying overnight
The Town Center
Exploring the town centre in Ifrane is a must do. One of the first things that comes to mind is that it looks very unlike other Moroccan towns with unique buildings and architecture. This is down to the French legacy.
You’ll also find the lake and park as well as the iconic lion in the centre of town. The origin of this lion is unclear but it is a popular selfie stop.
There are lots of young people around as the Al Akhawayn University is nearby. When you walk around the “Centre Ville”, you get a striking impression of that European flair that distinguishes alpine mountain builds.
Lion Sculpture
The lion statue has become emblematic of the city of Ifrane, and locals like to joke that every full-fledged Moroccan has at least one photograph with the sculpture.
The history of the lion statue is shrouded in mystery, and opinions on the identity of the sculptor diverge.
Some people believe that an Italian or German soldier carved the figure, far back during the second world war, in commemoration of the last wild Atlas lion that perished near the region of Ifrane.
However, the sculpture dates back to 1930 and the most plausible narrative attributes the design and creation of the lion statue to French sculptor Henri Jean Moreau who moved to Morocco in 1928. It’s said that he also carved several sculptures in the country’s churches and chapels, including the Catholic church of Ifrane.
Cedre Gouraud Forest
Just outside Ifrane lies the Cedre Gouraud Forest which has some beautiful walking trails and is a beautiful place to spend a day. It is also suited to mountain biking making it a popular place for visitors to the area.
You may even spot a few Barbary apes or wild boar here. Just south of Ifrane the cedar forests have a trail leading to the scenic Vallee des Roches where there is an interesting limestone rocky outcrop.
Source Vitel
Located three kilometers away from Ifrane’s town center is Ain Vitel or Source Vitel. This is one of the most popular attractions in the city of Ifrane, and perhaps the most enchanting one as well.
Ain Vitel is as close as you will ever get to a true apotheosis of nature.
With its mesmerizing collection of cascading waterfalls and verdant leafy forest, Source Vitel is the ideal site for a delightful picnic.
During spring and summer, many Moroccan families will pack their traditional barbecue equipment (mejmer -vessel made of unglazed clay- and charcoal) and head to Ain Vitel for a lunch cookout followed by an excursion into the forest.
Some even bring a couple of pillows and blankets to take a nap under the celestial blue skies.
Places to Stay in Ifrane
Ifrane has a number of good places to stay and spend a few days enjoying the scenery.
Michlifen Ifrane Suites and Spa
Michlifen Ifrane is ideal for those wanting an active holiday. It is known for its swimming pool and spa but has a good restaurant too. And the suites are luxurious and a great place to chill out.
Auberge Tourtite
This is a Berber run hotel with a relaxing atmosphere and good restaurant. It also has a fitness centre. The hotel is ideal for a short break or active holiday.
Places to Eat
Whilst some of the hotels have restaurants, Ifrane has lots of great places to dine out and get to know the Berber cuisine.
Auberge Berbere
Located on Route Ifrane_Azrou the Auberge Berbere serves Moroccan, French and Berber cuisine. It is good quality and a very welcoming place to eat.
Café de Paix
Café de Paix is right in the centre of Ifrane and serves Mediterranean and Moroccan food. It is a friendly place to enjoy a meal. The coffee is also highly recommended.
Le Chamonix
Le Chamonix is renowned for its location and great food. It is definitely a restaurant with a view and is popular for lunch.
This restaurant on Avenue Hassan II serves Moroccan and international food.