Morocco a land of beauty (Ifrane)

 Ifrane is a town and ski resort in the Middle Atlas region of Morocco .

Ifrane is 1665 metres  in elevation and is part of the Meknès-Tafilalet region. In Tamazight, the regional Berber language, "ifran" means caves.

Background  

Developed by the French during the protectorate era for their administration due to its Alpine climate, this Moroccan 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, -24 °C in 1935. Animals to be found in the vicinity include the threatened Barbary Macaque. Among the local tree species are the native Atlas cedar, Scrub oak and the introduced London plane.

The first permanent settlement of the area dates to the 16th century, when the Sharif of Sîdî 'Abd al-Salâm established his community in the Tizguit Valley, seven km downstream from the present town. By the mid-17th century the zâwiyah was well enough established to receive an extensive iqtâ'  from the 'Alâwî sultan Mûlây Rashîd b. Muhammad. While the founder's lineage was ethnically Arab, the inhabitants of the village today mostly speak Tamazight.

Visit Morocco the fifty-seventh largest country in the world

The geography of Morocco spans from the Atlantic Ocean, to mountainous areas, to the Sahara desert. Morocco is a Northern African country, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and the annexed Western Sahara. It is one of only three nations  to have both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines.

A large part of Morocco is mountainous. The Atlas Mountains are located mainly in the center and the south of the country. The Rif Mountains are located in the north of the country. Both ranges are mainly inhabited by the Berber people. At, Morocco is the fifty-seventh largest country in the world .

Morroco A historically prominent regional power

 Morocco  to have both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines. The Arabic name al-Mamlakah al-Maghribiyah  and Al-Maghrib''  are commonly used as alternate names.

Morocco has a population of over 33 million and an area of . Its political capital is Rabat, although the largest city is Casablanca; other major cities include Marrakesh, Tangier, Tetouan, Salé, Fes, Agadir, Meknes, Oujda, Kenitra, and Nador. A historically prominent regional power, Morocco has a history of independence not shared by its neighbours. Its distinct culture is a blend of Arab, indigenous Berber, Sub-Saharan African, and European influences.

Ifrane

Situated in the mountains of the Middle Atlas, Ifrane is an oasis of greenery and freshness. Lakes, fountains, the change of scenery, surprising and refreshing.

Upon arrival in Ifrane, is the impression of freshness dominates. Broad avenues, parks, European style villas, you will discover here a little-known facet of North Africa. Sources and lakes abound in this region at the heart of a forest of cedars. The cottages evoke the sloping roof also surprisingly Switzerland. A break of infinite sweetness. Southeast on Highway Azrou, a multitude of extinct volcanoes form the landscape of Ito, rocky horizon at nightfall, reminds many lunar craters.

Source Vittel and waterfalls are an ideal walking goal. Follow the river a few hundred meters and see the forest of maples and poplars that run down the water source. In summer, small rides are proposed to reach the waterfalls.

One of the treasures of Ifrane is its lakes and rivers. At the heart of an unexpected Morocco, you can fish for pike or trout in a completely preserved and unaltered. Regardless of the catch, enjoy the limitless wilderness, forget the stress and observe the oscillations of your cap. The fish will be waiting for you!

Incomparable natural area, the Ifrane region also hunting. Hares, wild boars, partridges, local wildlife flourishes freely in the beautiful forests around the "Little Switzerland" of Morocco. At dawn, accompanied by expert guides you can go on the trail of a bloated and incredibly varied game. An experimental station for the study of animal behavior monitors the resource game carefully and accurately.

Rabat

Ocean, medina and Kasbah Udayas make the heart beat of the Moroccan capital.
The wall of the Andalusians, built of adobe in the seventeenth century, protects the south of the medina. The old town is surprisingly straight course, very different from the usual maze of streets. It can be entered through the Bab El Had where the market is held on Sundays. Here begins the Souika street, the largest and probably the most animated of the medina. It leads to the Grand Mosque and leads to Souk Es Sebat, the shoe market, covered with reed mats and slippers full of hundreds, leather goods and crafts and jewelry in gold and silver. Then came the Rue des Consuls, partially covered by glass, where craftsmen work under your eyes and make thick woolen carpet, cloth and brass. Going up north, we approached the door of the Udayas.
Protected by massive ramparts, medina reflects the soul of the old Almohad city. Souika street and its shops this magnificent carpet, delicate work of coppersmiths, succulent mouth-watering pastries or skewers. Rue des Consuls, so named because it was the residence of the representatives of foreign nations, along elegant homes where artisans practice their art in the eyes of passersby. Tarik El Marsa The street, which runs along the wall of the Andalusians, also offers a comprehensive overview of expertise exercised here for centuries.
Every day at 10:45 precise, it is possible to enter the courtyard of the barracks of the Royal Guard to attend the ceremony of sending color, that is to say, the hoisting of the national flag. Spectacular, too, the changing of the guard on horseback takes place every day at 7 am in front of the Hassan Tower. This is from the esplanade of this tower as cannon shots are fired on the eve of the major religious festivals.
Do not miss the gardens of Sidi Bouknadel, 12 km north of Rabat. 4 acres, exotic plants from around the world have been planted. You can continue this bucolic stroll and picnic in the forest of Mamora among eucalyptus, cork oaks and Aleppo pines other. Back in town, enjoy the new Corniche which starts at Bab Al Bahr, near the kasbah. The banks of the Bouregreg sometimes take on the appearance of French Riviera, especially with the new marina and 350 rings, right bank side Sale. At sunset, the Café Maure of the Kasbah Ouyadas is the best view of the river and Salé.

Morocco the great paradise

Riads, gardens, steam, at Morocco embodies the high well-being at the art of living rank. Today, all major hotels have their own spa or fitness center. Luxury and comfort combine perfectly with the tradition and lifestyle Moroccans. Some of these institutions enjoy a unique setting, as this spa hotel in Tangier, which offers panoramic views of the Strait.

Agadir, Marrakech, Essaouira, Fes, Tangier and Casablanca ... Many destinations offer stays focused on well-being. Agadir and Essaouira, located on the Atlantic coast, offering thalassotherapy. Marrakech remains the ideal destination to enjoy the pleasures of relaxation spa, hot tub or steam room. Fez is distinguished by its proximity to the famous seaside resort Moulay Yacoub, recognized for the quality of its sulphurous waters center. Natural quality products and recognized virtues remain the basis of care.


Everywhere you can indulge in a  Hammam. Place of relaxation and socializing, this is a real institution in Morocco. Often richly decorated, there a relaxing ambience. Black soap scrub, wrap or henna ghasoul, massage with essential oils are among the treatments offered.


deal to experience the magic of a day in the desert and in comfort! An unforgettable experience.
Mountains, deserts, oases and beaches ... In Morocco, nature is everywhere. Moreover, reserves and nature parks are numerous.

Of the thousands of miles of coastline on the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, nature is generous. Discover, for example, the park at the mouth of Wadi Souss and Massa near Agadir, which forms an ideal ecosystem to accommodate flamingos, cranes and ibises ... South of Sidi Ifni, the sublime white beach stretches its 50 km of pure beauty. Further south, the bay of Dakhla hosts the last monk seal colony in the world. Near the Mediterranean, the beautiful nature reserve of the Rif, at the mouth of the Moulaya is also a paradise for birds.
Morocco is THE destination for lovers of wildlife and flora.

SAÏDIA: The Glory of the Mediterranean

The blue pearl of Morocco, Saidia, modernized so you can soon enjoy the turquoise Mediterranean, its 14 km beach and a beautiful hinterland.

A beautiful bay, and above 14 km of sandy beach ... Saidia is a new generation of resort that its Moroccan charm. Stroll under the mimosa and eucalyptus trees that line the beach, sunbathe freely and especially dive into the turquoise water that invites you to relax.


Go Discover Oujda, 60 km south of Sidon. Unspoilt and picturesque medina flooded with local handicrafts bazaars and lofty fortifications its kasbah. It's a whole world warm and welcoming you with open arms.

To enter the old Medina, east side, you will cross a large arched doorway flanked by two bastions, Bab Sidi Abdel Wahab. It is said that the severed heads of the rebels were exposed. Glowing at sunset, west of the medina, Bab El Gharbi, one of the three main gates of the medina, is smaller but very charming. Let us tell you about the tumultuous history of this ancient city.

FÈS

The Imperial City is the capital of the traditional culture of Morocco. Cribs knowledge, superb madrasas are the flamboyant symbol.

A madrasah is a school where the Koran is taught and all academic subjects of knowledge: mathematics, grammar, history, astronomy, medicine ... In Morocco, especially Fez, the function of the madrasas is also welcome students from other regions. Generally, it is organized around a central courtyard with a fountain. Classes are taught in the rich arcades on the sides.

Karaouiyine mosque is one of the largest in Morocco. It houses the university considered the world's oldest, founded in the mid-ninth century, when the core subjects: theology, grammar and Koranic law. Opposite Madrasa El-Attarine is considered the most beautiful of the medina.


Before entering the souks of Fes El Bali, a visit to Dar Batha Museum can be considered. Devoted to the arts and traditions of Fez, the place provides a good overview of the artisanal production of a city renowned for the skill of its various trades. Among them, potters and ceramists perhaps stand out. The tin enamel painted cobalt blue has become the standard of the artisans of the city. Another museum to discover the arts and crafts of wood that is installed in one of the most beautiful monuments of Fez, the foundouk In-Najjarine. Collections of various objects are exhibited in the old cells of the caravanserai. Latticework and wooden furniture can be easily found in the neighborhood. Chiseled articles brassware

The Festival of World Sacred Music is becoming increasingly international success since its inception in 1994, every year in late May and early June, this event brings together artists from different cultures around the same musical passion. The festival has grown with the addition of Fez Encounters, bringing together intellectuals, scientists and humanists, and the selection of free concerts in the city. Another festival, Jazz in Riyadh, reveals an original and rich musical houses of the medina. Fez also knows celebrate theater, again with two festivals: one brings together Moroccan professionals and the world; the second puts the spotlight on university theater productions across the country.

OUARZAZATE

From Ouarzazate, every road you take to the wonders of southern Morocco. Live the adventure and meet people and culture authentic.

From Ouarzazate to Boumalne, stretches the Dades Valley. Barren, it is lined with kasbahs and unique fortified villages. Reflecting Tidrheste or Tiflit, sometimes you have to leave the road and discover traditional Berber adobe houses. A cool break the palm of Ouarzazate timely. After arriving Tinghir magnificent Todra Gorge. It narrows as the walls rise above the head (up to 300m). A track can reach via Boumalne Dades gorges. Depending on the light, the rock is tinged in pink, red, orange or purple. South of the Jebel Sahro Boumalne starts and 150 varieties of birds in the Valley of the Birds. The point of panoramic view from the Tizi-n-Tazazert is extraordinary.

By extending the excursion along the Dades, it crosses the country roses, El Gouna Kelaât where the water rose so precious is manufactured for the complexion. In May, the entire region is celebrating flower three days. Further, open the Dades gorges before those of Todra and cliffs up to 300 m in places high.

To the south, lies the valley of the Draa, which irrigates about 200 km a narrow oasis where dates and henna grow. Ksar Tissergate, one of ksours that line the valley, houses the museum of arts and traditions that are presented in many everyday items and crafts Berber.

Mr. Hamid is the starting point for excursions Sahara. At Tinfou two high dunes give a taste of the desert. To be completely, continue west to the dunes of Mr. Hamid Chigaga than 40 km long and which one of them can reach 150m.

ESSAOUIRA - MOGADOR

What if it was possible to reconcile everything: a high-end destination where the family is welcome, a comfortable resort environmentally conscious? This ideal is called eco-resort Mogador.

This is the ideal city for rest and pleasure: the Mogador resort which is nestled in a forest area of ​​600 hectares along the dunes, is like a sea vegetable dip in the ocean. To join the four prestigious hotels or residential hamlets, you will take through the vegetation dry stone paths lit by original and energy efficient system. Nature is a friend who accompanies your vacation: compositions Gardens Filtrants® possible to recycle irrigation water gardens and golf courses.

In the middle of unspoiled nature in contact with dunes, forest and the Atlantic Ocean, ecological Golf de Mogador with two 18-hole course designed by Gary Player, is fast becoming a golf reference. Golf is not the only sports offered at Mogador: tennis, squash, kite-surfing, windsurfing, horseback riding as well for hikes to the Souss valley. There, push the precious argan giving argan oil ... that you test the spa. Relax with peace of mind: a dedicated team to look after your children

A little getaway beyond the dunes will take Mogador Essaouira see and historic heritage. From the ramparts, watch the Atlantic and proud salute to the port fishermen returning boats loaded. Through the Bab El Marse, you enter the medina classified as World Heritage by UNESCO to meet with marquetry and cabinet makers among the most famous of the Kingdom. Minutes from the agitation alive, you quickly find the quiet of your Garden of Eden: the Mogador resort.
luxury resort, Mogador offers sports and family vacations in the greatest respect for nature.

Mazagan, authentic luxury

Just 90 kilometers from Casablanca, Mazagan is the new seaside destination luxury version, in an exceptional setting. Its magic and wealth are suitable for all tastes throughout the year.
Mazagan is a unique creation of Kerzner International, developer of resorts prestige. Located on an exceptional site, it has at any point of excellence signed Kerzner. A magical place, on the edge of a verdant forest of eucalyptus and overlooking the beautiful beach of El Haouzia the Atlantic Morocco. A prestigious address that you receive a warm welcome. Lavish decor inspired by Moorish architectural tradition, offers a rich animation and refined appointments to make your stay unforgettable.
The package was developed with attention to detail to meet every desire. At the heart of the resort stands a five-star 500-room hotel, with stunning views of the lagoon, the lush gardens and the golf course. The hotel offers fine dining and lounge bar offering local, Mediterranean and international. The layout of the nightclub "Sanctuary" was awarded to Raymond Visan, the creator of the famous Buddha Bar in association with architect Jeffrey Beers Yorker. The course of the 18 hole golf course was designed by Gary Player, International player and managed by Troon Golf, officiating at over 190 golf courses in luxury in more than 30 countries. The hotel also has an exclusive casino in the region, a beauty center and fitness as well as a conference center and flexible policies for prestigious corporate events ..
Experience the thrill of authentic Morocco, luxury and elegance in an area of ​​outstanding beauty with access to a rich and vibrant interior.
Read more: http: //www.mazaganbeachresort.com/

CHEFCHAOUEN: The bleu city

Houses with blue lime, vibrant squares, steep alleyways, the best way to know this holy city is to wander around and soak up the atmosphere.
Wedged between two mountains, Chefchaouen is a city with whitewashed blue and white houses. A powerful charm that one feels good about the place Outa el Hammam in the medina paved with pebbles. Sitting on the terrace of a cafe, you can enjoy the beautiful view of the Grand Mosque Tarik Ben Ziad whose octagonal minaret is inspired by that of the Torre de Oro in Seville. This Andalusian architecture is found in the kasbah and its gardens in the heart of the medina. Its walls and crenellated towers eleven, which was used as a dungeon, host an interesting ethnographic museum.

In the small museum of the Kasbah are found collections of embroidery and colorful clothes and varied like those women in the region. The famous jilbab, the long, loose garment worn by men and women of North Africa, was created here. The welcome and hospitality of its people are confirmed during the visit of a traditional oil mill (there are over 1500) or a craft workshop. Besides weaving, Chefchaouen is known for its basketry and pottery. You can also attend a workshop introduction to pottery Ghzaoua, and leave with your own berradas (water jugs) or a simpler goulla (jar). Generally, pottery Rif region is sober. Black or red paint is applied directly to the clay. The walk continues until Rif Sebbarim, neighborhood laundries, on the place which stands a mosque in the fifteenth century. Visiting agadirs or fortified granaries in the region is also needed. Finally, no way to leave the city without tasting the cheese mountain goat. This is perhaps the best of Morocco.

tangier : bride of the north

Today, the powerful charm of Tangier operates ... The formerly sulphurous streets of Petit Socco terraces more than ever avant-garde of the many cafes.

Historically, the medina of Tangier has fascinated and inspired artists. Eugène Delacroix, Henri Matisse, Paul Bowles, Tennessee Williams, Jean Genet ... the list goes on. All succumbed to the charm of the place du Petit Socco and cafes, including the famous Tingis. Despite its bad reputation because of the casinos and dance halls that abounded at the time. North of the medina, the old Palais du Mendoub, built in 1929, is now a house for welcoming foreign guests. In the far south, the museum is installed in the former American Legation. This building houses paintings and an entire room is devoted to the American writer Paul Bowles. It is through the Grand Socco you'll get out of the medina, a very lively place in the evening, which begins the transition to the new city.

North of the Grand Socco, the park Mendoubia offers a pleasant stroll. Fig and banyan giant dragon that would highlight the visit 800 years. Take the Rue de la Liberté, a shopping street you will come to the place of France. This is the heart of the modern city with the famous Grand Café de Paris and the Hotel El Minzah frequented by big names in art and literature of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. This place is always in fashion. By moving on instead of Faro with his guns, you will discover the breathtaking views of the Medina, the harbor and the bay of Tangier. At the top of the cliff, the mythical Hafa cafe overlooks the Strait of Gibraltar.

Casablanca Morocco

Business, shopping, parties and dolce vita Moroccan ... Everything happens in Casablanca! And dynamism is infectious.
The architectural tradition of the economic capital continues with the opening, August 30, 1993, the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world with its 200 meters high. The life of the modern Casablanca is the exciting image of the neighborhood Mâarif. This poor old area to the west of the park of the Arab League has gradually transformed into one of the most prominent areas of the city. Moroccan gilded youth frequent these streets to luxury shops and trendy establishments, dominated by the twin towers of the Twin Center. Anfa, chic district of Casablanca, is also worth visiting. More downtown, the Boulevard Mohammed V retains its arcades under which shops and restaurants are aligned nearly 2 km.

By late afternoon, take a walk on the Corniche of Ain-Diab, between the El Hank lighthouse and Sidi Bou Abderrahmane marabout, village only accessible at low tide. This coast is the seaside annex of Casablanca. Swimming pools and public and private beaches are appointed. Come here to admire the sunset and cool terrace remains a classic. All weekend Casablancans like to meet. Later in the evening, discos continue the vibrant city that never sleeps.

The city of Agadir: The sun and beach

The first seaside resort in Morocco well deserves his title. A sandy beach 10 km, and over 300 days of sunshine per year.

With his miraculous at least 300 days of sunshine a year, and its long beach 10 km climate, Agadir has the ingredients for success seaside holiday. Agadir is a member of the exclusive club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World. It houses a marina that can accommodate hundreds of yachts.
The coastal road allows you to hang longer on the waterfront, a place to walk at any time of day. It provides a complete overview of the entire bay. Do not miss a visit to the port, is constantly buzzing.

Destroyed by the earthquake of 1960, the kasbah has not kept its crenellated ramparts. However, this elevated site has a complete view of the bay, the harbor and the new city. Enchanting at sunset when the lights become golden brown.

Marrakech the red city

More than a city, Marrakech is a jewel polished by history and the taste of home, knowing welcome its guests with open arms for centuries.

• Majorelle Gardens gather a collection of reported around the world that thrive alongside elegant pools and Art Deco villa plants. The ashes of Yves Saint Laurent are dispersed in these places. From this enchanting place, take one of the many horse-drawn carriages in the city to get to the palm or a ride is a must. Similarly, you can reach Menara, a symbol of Marrakech places. This elegant building, recognizable by its green tiles, is bathed in a huge pond. This is where the family Marrakchis come get a little cool during the hottest days of the year.

Jemaa-el-Fna place:  Real permanent theater, the Jemaa el Fna has something to fascinate, day and night. Liveliest district of Marrakech, close to the souks, it is the tourist heart. All walks begin and end here medina. From 17 pm, entertainment begins and Jemaa el Fna is packed with people. Snake charmers, fortune tellers, music groups and in the evening, dozens of mobile restaurants provide the show under the stunned eyes of onlookers. The sidewalk cafes located around around offer stunning views of the Jemaa el Fna, especially at sunset.

El Badi Palace: 

El Badi palace was built in the late sixteenth century for receptions Saadi Ahmed el-Mansour. Today, there remains much about the former glory. The minbar of the mosque-cathedral, designed by master cabinetmakers of Cordoba, worth a look. Masterpiece of Arab-Andalusian art, he served as pulpit in the Koutoubia Mosque. Otherwise, from the terraces of the palace El-Badi, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city ... and the stork nests in season.