When you think about winter getaways, the sun-kissed North Africa jewel, Morocco surely does not make the top of the list. For many winter getaway usually means a ski trip in a fairy-tale village nestled in snowcovered mountains, most usually in Switzerland or Austria.
Trip to Sahara desert, relaxing by the pool in a luxurious riad, trying to catch a breath while strolling the bustling souks in Marrakech; these are usually the things that pop in mind when you think of Morocco.
However, Morocco is a country that never ceases to impress and surprise. While it may come as surprise to many, Morocco perfectly fits the generalized idea of a winter holiday.
Perched at 2650m in the High Atlas, lies Oukaimeden- Africa's highest ski resort, with a chairlift rising to 3,258m – the peak of Jebel Attar.
The sleepy village offers a peaceful getaway from the hustle of Marrakesh 75km to the north. Even though Oukaïmeden it's a great year-round destination, ski enthusiasts and winter lovers would find this unspoiled place perfect for the winter sport.
The best part; On a clear day, skiers can see the Sahara desert dunes shimmer in the distance.
Along with Ifrane, Oukaimeden is one of two ski resorts in Morocco
The Ski resort has all the facilities typical to European resort – ski hire, ski school, restaurants, and hotels – but all done in a Moroccan way.
Oukaimeden is not just about skiing. For families, there is a sledding area and the queue for the chairlift for visitors waiting to admire the view is four times as long as the one for skiers.
Guides also offer other mountain activities such as ski-touring and snowshoeing.
Tourism in Oukaimeden is on the rise. Dubai's Emaar group announced plans to invest $1.4 billion in developing the resort together with 11 hotels and the world's highest-altitude 18-hole golf course.
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