Ifrane

Ifrane defies every expectation of Morocco. This immaculate mountain town, established by the French in 1929 as a summer retreat, looks transplanted from the Swiss Alps with its red-tiled chalets, manicured gardens, and crisp mountain air. At 1,665 meters elevation, Ifrane offers temperatures 15-20 degrees cooler than lowland cities, providing welcome relief during summer months.

The town's centerpiece is a large stone lion, carved by a German prisoner of war during World War II, which has become Morocco's most photographed animal sculpture. Beyond this quirky landmark, Ifrane impresses with its extraordinary cleanliness, extensive parkland, and orderly streets that stand in stark contrast to the chaos of traditional Moroccan medinas.

The surrounding Middle Atlas region encompasses vast cedar forests sheltering the last wild Barbary macaques in Africa. These endangered primates, often called Barbary apes despite being true monkeys, inhabit the Azrou cedar forest near the town, where visitors can observe them in their natural habitat. The forests also support wild boar, jackals, and over 200 bird species.

Winter transforms Ifrane into Morocco's only ski destination. The Michlifen and Jebel Hebri slopes, though modest by Alpine standards, offer a surreal experience: skiing in Africa. Moroccan families flock here after snowfall, creating a festive atmosphere of snowball fights and improvised sledding.

Al Akhawayn University, Morocco's premier English-language institution, adds youthful energy and international flavor to this unique town. The campus, designed in Moroccan-meets-Swiss style, welcomes visitors to explore its grounds.