Just a short drive from Ifrane lies Azrou, a beautiful Berber town right in the middle of the Middle Atlas Mountains. The town’s name is derived from the Amazigh (Berber) word for “rock,” which is indicative of the large volcanic hill that looks down upon the town. The town has got some of the traditional markets, natural beauty, and cedar forests, and thus is the place where one can get the authentic experience of Mountain Morocco life.
The Cedar Forest of Azrou nearby is not only one of the daintiest forests in the country but also the habitat of the famous Barbary macaques, who are very often sighted swinging from tree to tree. The area also provides great trekking and biking, gorgeous picnic places, and opening up to the local Berber art and crafts especially carpets and woodwork.
Azrou, with its clean mountain air, sociable inhabitants, and nonchalant vibe, would turn out to be a rejuvenating retreat from the noisy Moroccan metropolitan cities—and the perfect nature- and culture-loving stop between Fez, Ifrane, and the Atlas Mountains.