Ifarne (The Little Switzerland of Morocco)

2007-04-16T17:57:00.000-07:00

Ifrane (Arabic: إفران) (nicknamed Little Switzerland) is a town and ski resort in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco. Ifrane is part of the Meknès-Tafilalet region. The word Ifrane means "a cave" in Berber. The population is estimated at between 12 000 and 14 000.
Developed by the French during the protectorate era for their administration due to its Alpine climate, this Morrocan town has a remarkable European style, as if it were an Alpine village. Because of its elevation, the town experiences snow during the winter months and a cool climate during the summer. Ifrane is also the place where the lowest temperature was ever recorded in Africa, -23 ºC in 1935. Animals to be found there include the barbary monkey. Among the tree species are the native Atlas cedar and the introduced London plane. The town also has the Moroccan king's summer residence and the Al Akhawayn University, an English speaking private university.

Ifrane :

Town, north-central Morocco. Founded in 1929, Ifrane is situated in the Moyen (Middle) Atlas Mountains and includes in its immediate environs Morocco's premier winter and summer resort areas. Located at an elevation of about 5,400 feet (1,650 m) above sea level, the modern town caters to international tourists. Nearby cedar-covered, extinct volcanic craters are equipped with alpine ski-runs. Azrou, 11 miles (17 km) southwest of Ifrane at an elevation of about 3,950 feet (1204 m), is an old Berber settlement that was developed into an all-seasons resort; trout fishing is especially popular. The local Beni Mguild tribe grazes sheep and produces quality carpets. Pop. (1982) 7,717.

Ifrane with New Eyes

Ifarne (The Little Switzerland of Morocco)