Epic Ride Around Midelt: Morocco’s Scenic Cycling Routes

Join me on an unforgettable cycling adventure through Morocco’s Drâa-Tafilalet region, starting from the vibrant mountain town of Midelt. In this video, I take you deep into the Middle Atlas Mountains, riding through spectacular landscapes, ancient Berber villages, winding rivers, and rugged mountain trails — all under the bright Moroccan sun.

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🌍 Where is Midelt?

Midelt sits at around 1,500 meters above sea level, nestled between the Middle Atlas and High Atlas Mountains in central Morocco. It’s often overlooked by travelers rushing between big destinations like Fes and Merzouga, but it’s a true hidden gem. Known as the “Apple Capital” of Morocco, Midelt boasts cool mountain air, dramatic scenery, and a strong Berber culture that you’ll see throughout this ride.

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🚴 About My Ride

I begin my day in Midelt, enjoying a traditional Moroccan breakfast at my hotel. On the table is Msemen, a delicious square-shaped Moroccan flatbread that’s buttery, layered, and perfect fuel for a day of cycling.

After gearing up and packing my hydration pack (essential because water stops are few and far between in these remote areas), I check my bike and hit the road. Leaving Midelt, I’m surrounded by wide views of the Middle Atlas peaks and the towering Jbel Ayachi range, which looms dramatically on the horizon.

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🏞️ Highlights Along the Route

🔸 Apple Orchards & Berber Villages

Midelt and the surrounding valleys are famous for apple farming. The high altitude and cool climate create perfect growing conditions, and in autumn, the orchards become a colorful mosaic bustling with harvest activity. Cycling here means pedaling past rows of green trees and the occasional donkey carrying baskets of fruit.

Along the way, I visit villages like Ait Izdeg, where traditional adobe homes blend beautifully into the hillsides. These homes, made from clay, straw, and sun-dried bricks, stay cool in the summer heat and warm in winter’s chill. The Berber people here live simple, community-focused lives, steeped in centuries-old customs and warm hospitality.

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🔸 The Oued Outat River

A big part of my route follows the Oued Outat River, fed by snowmelt from the High Atlas, including Jbel Ayachi. Though it’s not a huge river, it’s a lifeline for the valleys it winds through, nourishing orchards, green oases, and supporting traditional irrigation systems called seguias. Crossing the river can be an adventure itself — keeping my socks dry was a challenge!

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🔸 Ksser Flilou & Gorges

My ride takes me through places like Ksser Flilou, a traditional Berber village where time seems to slow down. Here, life revolves around farming, herding, and community gatherings. I also cycle past breathtaking gorges carved by the river, where sheer rock walls tower on either side — a stunning backdrop for any cycling enthusiast.

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🔸 Tiouine Dam

Further along, I pass the Tiouine Dam, a vital reservoir supplying drinking water to Ouarzazate and supporting local agriculture. It’s a modern infrastructure marvel nestled in the rugged landscape, playing a crucial role in sustaining communities in this semi-arid region.

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🔸 The Rocky Challenge

No Moroccan cycling trip would be complete without some serious climbs! Leaving the valley, I tackle a steep, rocky ascent. The loose stones and scorching sun make it tough, but the panoramic views from the top are worth every drop of sweat. Looking back down into the valley and seeing the ribbon of the Oued Outat winding through the mountains is pure magic.

The reward for the climb? An exhilarating downhill ride! I join the Piste de Jaafer, a rugged dirt track famous among local cyclists and adventurers. The full route stretches roughly 67 km between Midelt and Tounfit, passing the spectacular Jaafer Gorge, but today I’m just riding the final downhill stretch into Midelt — a thrilling way to end the day.

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🕊️ A Taste of Berber Life

Throughout the ride, you’ll see glimpses of authentic Berber life. Donkeys carrying loads along rocky trails, farmers tending apple orchards, and traditional mud-brick villages blending seamlessly into the landscape. Morocco’s beauty is not just in its scenery but in the people, culture, and the quiet resilience that defines life in these remote regions.

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🔥 Why Cycle in Midelt?
• Dramatic mountain scenery
• Quiet roads and trails
• Warm Berber hospitality
• Apple orchards and unique agriculture
• Hidden valleys and traditional villages
• Epic climbs and rewarding descents
• A perfect escape from Morocco’s crowded tourist routes

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🎥 About This Channel

I’m passionate about exploring the world on two wheels and sharing immersive cycling adventures from unique destinations. From rugged mountain passes to quiet village roads, I hope to inspire you to discover new places and cultures — one pedal stroke at a time.

👉 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more cycling adventures around the world!

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