Midelt

Midelt occupies a high plateau (1,488m) between the Middle and High Atlas ranges, surrounded by apple orchards that blush pink in spring. It's primarily known as the midpoint lunch stop on the Fes–Merzouga or Fes–Ouarzazate route, but rewards those who stay longer with accessible mountain treks, carpet workshops, and the dramatic Cirque de Jaffar gorge.

Midelt developed as a French military and mining town in the early 20th century. The surrounding Aouli silver and lead mines operated until the 1980s. The plateau was historically a transhumance route for Berber tribes moving between summer (High Atlas) and winter (plains) pastures.

The Franciscan monastery of Notre-Dame de l'Atlas is home to a small community of French nuns who weave Berber carpets — their workshop is open to visitors. The local Ait Haddidou Berber tribe is known for its distinctive red and white carpet designs.

• ✓The apple harvest (September–October) is the best time to visit.
• ✓The Cirque de Jaffar requires a 4WD vehicle — hire locally.
• ✓Midelt is mainly a road-trip stop — position it between Fes and Merzouga.

CTM buses from Fes (3.5h), Meknes (2.5h), Er-Rachidia (2h). Most visitors drive.