On the first morning of your adventure, you will leave Fes, a city steeped in history, its ancient medina still humming with life. As you drive out of the bustling streets, the flatlands of northern Morocco give way to the rolling foothills of the Middle Atlas. The road to Ifrane, a charming town often called "Little Switzerland" for its alpine feel, will wind through a landscape dotted with stately pines and clear, blue skies. The contrast with Fes will be striking: gone are the narrow alleyways and vibrant souks, replaced by neat streets, European-style chalets, and crisp mountain air.

As you approach Ifrane, the scent of pine and cedar will fill the air, and you’ll feel like you've stepped into a different world altogether. You’ll pause to stretch your legs by the Al Akhawayn University, where ivy-clad buildings stand at the foot of mountains, before grabbing a quick coffee or mint tea at one of the town's cafes. You’ll take a few minutes to enjoy the tranquility before hitting the road again, headed to Azrou, another gem tucked in the mountains.

The road to Azrou will take you deeper into the Middle Atlas, with its vast forests of cedar and oak. You’ll make a detour to explore Cedar Forest, one of Morocco's most enchanting natural spots. Here, you’ll wander beneath ancient trees, some of them over a thousand years old, their gnarled trunks twisted by centuries of winds and snow. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a Barbary macaque, the region’s famous monkeys, swinging through the trees.

Continuing onward, you’ll journey toward Aguelmame Azegza, a serene lake hidden within the mountains, where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding peaks. You’ll stop for a moment, perhaps enjoying a picnic or simply soaking in the peacefulness of the area, as the colors of the lake reflect the ever-changing sky.

By the time you head south towards your final destination for the day, the sun will be beginning to set, casting a golden light across the vast expanses of the Middle Atlas. The road to Arougou will be rugged and remote, and when you arrive in this small, quiet village nestled high in the mountains, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived at a place far removed from the outside world. You’ll spend the night in a cozy guesthouse, where the warmth of the fire and a hearty Moroccan meal will be the perfect end to your first day of adventure.

As the morning light breaks over the mountains, you’ll wake up in the peace and solitude of Arougou. The mountains surrounding you will still be draped in mist, the cool air filling your lungs as you step outside. After a traditional Moroccan breakfast—perhaps freshly baked bread, honey, and olives—you’ll set off, ready for the journey to Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities.

Your route will take you through more rugged terrain, as you continue to weave your way through the stunning Middle Atlas. You’ll pass through small Berber villages, where life seems to move at a slower pace. The scenery will be mesmerizing: rolling hills dotted with stone farmhouses, fields of barley and wheat, and grazing flocks of sheep. You’ll take a few short breaks to capture the beauty of the landscape, always keeping your eyes peeled for glimpses of the region’s wildlife.

As you approach Meknes, the scenery will begin to change. The mountains will gradually give way to the plains, and the air will warm as you descend from the heights. The Medina of Meknes will rise before you, its ancient walls and monumental gates waiting to tell their stories. You’ll stroll through the bustling streets, soaking in the sights of this UNESCO World Heritage site, with its blend of Islamic, Berber, and French influences.

The grand Bab Mansour, one of the most iconic gates in Morocco, will welcome you into the heart of the city. You’ll wander through its maze-like alleys, passing by local artisans selling intricate leather goods and traditional carpets. The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail will be your next stop, a testament to the grandeur of the city’s past as an imperial capital.

As the sun sets, casting a warm golden glow across the city’s impressive architecture, you’ll reflect on the rich history and the natural beauty you’ve experienced over the past two days. The Middle Atlas has revealed its secrets—serene lakes, ancient forests, and charming mountain villages—and you’ll leave with a sense of wonder and fulfillment, knowing that you’ve explored one of Morocco’s most captivating regions