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If you think Morocco is all about narrow, maze-like busy streets full of colorful hanging carpets and lamps, think again. When I posted a photo of snow, a friend sent me a message saying “I didn’t know it’s snowing in Morocco.” That’s what makes Morocco an interesting country to explore. Ifrane is unlike any other city in Morocco, because of its elevation, it experiences snow during winter, it holds the record of the lowest temperature ever registered in Africa: −23.9 °C in 1935 . This small town, also known as the “Little Switzerland of Morocco” with its red-roofed houses, abundant cedar forest, and clean streets surrounded by oak trees will make you think twice if you are in really Morocco.
As I’ve mentioned on my previous post, I was able to visit six cites during my stay in Morocco. Among the six cities, Ifrane is my favorite. Unfortunately, there was no snowfall while I was there, but I’m not complaining. At least I’ve set my feet on snow (Yes, it’s not difficult to make me happy) I loved how clean and ordered the city was. In fact, it was elected as the world’s second cleanest city according to a survey by MBC Times. I enjoyed walking around the city’s town center which is surrounded by restaurants and coffee shops. I felt like I was in an alpine village that I’ve only seen in movies. While driving around the city, I realized that I started to have a thing about small towns.
The Town Centre
The downtown area of Ifrane offers several restaurants, gardens, lake and park. There’s also a mysterious lion sculpture in the area, make sure to have your selfie taken with it.
A “tajine” is always a good idea after feeling the cold breeze on your face all day long. Pair it with Moroccan mint tea.
Michlifen Ski Resort
Ifrane is a famous winter destination for ski lovers, not just for tourists but also for the locals. You can bring your own ski gears or you can rent it there.
On our way to Michlifen Ski Resort, we passed by a hill covered with snow. People were having fun sliding and taking pictures, so we did the same. No, not the sliding part. Lol.
Look, I’m walking on snoooow.
Gigil on the snow.
I can make halo-halo with this.
Me and my excited face.
A mandatory selfie. Don’t panic, it’s a faux fur.
Cèdre Gouraud Forest
Just outside Ifrane is the home to the world’s largest population of the best-known Old World monkey species, Barbary macaque. Don’t worry, even if these monkeys are endangered, you’ll see a lot of them in the forest, some will even greet you upon arrival. Enjoy getting lost in the this forest and don’t stop until you find the seemingly hidden valley, or you can just follow the horse trail to find it.
Behind me is an 800-year-old cedar tree.
This is what we’ve found outside the cedar forest.
It’s just so beautiful.
And calm.
Just beautiful. Take me baaaaack.
Now you know why it’s my favorite Moroccan city! I can say that it is an unforgettable town. You can never get bored exploring this country, surprises are everywhere and Ifrane is one of its best kept secrets.
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