This is one of the classic trail running circuits from Imlil, and a good option for a warm-up on the first day of a running holiday in Imlil.

From the small village of Ager Sioual, you head up through Matat towards the coll at Tizi Oudite. The views of the plateau below, and the rock fortress of Jebel Angour are incomparable from here.

The trail then heads down to the berber village of Ait Aissa.

From here it’s a lovely run up a 4×4 track to the village of Tizi Oussem, perched on the hillside above walnut and apple tree groves. The Tazaghart Plateau is visible to the South West.

Heading up past a holy shrine above the village, the trail follows a mule track up to the top of the Tizi Mzik coll, and views over Imlil. It is possible from here to take a short diversion to the summit of Adrar

From the coll the trail then winds down to Mzik and finally the bridge at the centre of Imlil, where a cold coke and possibly a hot tajine await!

This route is a good warm-up for the higher mountains. It gradually gets you used to the terrain and the style of trails typical of the Atlas Mountain runs, whilst not being too technical.