Situated in the spectacular Atlas Mountains just an hour from Marrakesh, the award-winning Kasbah Tamadot was bought to the region by Sir Richard Branson during one of his famous ballooning expeditions. As the former home of antique collector Luciano Tempo — who purchased the property and filled it with beautiful finds from India, Africa and the Far East — the discovery of Kasbah Tamadot by the Branson family seemed like it was fate. Kasbah Tamadot is now one of Morocco’s most sought after hideaways, and its peaceful surroundings are reflected in the name, which means ‘soft breeze’ in Berber.

To the north extends a steep river valley with sheer rocky limestone and forested mountains, contrasting with the view of the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains on the southern side. To the east, across the river, guests can see the traditional Berber village of Tansghart built into the side of the mountain. Kasbah Tamadot employs local Berber staff from the surrounding villages, giving guests a sense of staying in a Moroccan home rather than a hotel.

A magical property perched high up in the Atlas Mountains with quiet courtyards, amazing architecture, an over-the-top Hammam and views that will take your breath away, the resort feels both isolated and intimate.

Robert Merlin

Each of the 28 rooms and suites have been individually decorated to reflect the beautiful architecture of the original kasbah. Accomodations feature antiques from all over the world, marrying the traditional charm of Moroccan design with contemporary elements. Each year during the seasonal closure, the team visits offsite storage which holds a collection of antiques from Luciano Tempo, the original owner, and refreshes the decor of the rooms.

The main building houses 15 rooms and suites, with the remaining spread throughout the grounds. The Master Suite, located a few minutes walk away at the end of the garden, has three rooms including the Deluxe Pool Suite, and is generally hired privately as a 3-bedroom cottage. All rooms are equipped with the usual items you would expect of a luxury hotel such as bath robes, hairdryers, etc. Televisions with DVD players also are available on request.

The ten luxurious Berber Tents are perfect for those looking for a little more adventure. Soak up the views on your private deck equipped with sun loungers and space for outdoor dining; plus, six suites have their own Jacuzzi. Having coffee on your deck as the clouds roll over the mountains and the sun comes up is like nothing else. Consider requesting a yoga mat be delivered to your tent so you can flow on your own in nature.

Kayla Douglas

There is both an indoor and outdoor pool so guests have no shortage of options for R+R, regardless of weather. In addition, there’s a nice workout facility available.

Lounging by the pool and soaking up the sun is a good start, but for that extra special touch, the Asounfou Spa has a range of skincare and body treatments for both men and women. Asounfou, the Berber word for relaxation, describes the Kasbah Tamadot beauty treatment rooms perfectly. For a true Moroccan experience try a Hammam, where the skin is deeply cleansed, purified and softened with the traditional Moroccan cleansing ritual.

Robert Merlin

Breakfast is included within your accommodation rate and weather permitting, start your morning with a meal on the terrace next to the pool bar or on the rooftop. In addition to bread freshly baked on premise and pastries, juices and fruit, guests are welcome to order cooked dishes and Moroccan specialities from the à la carte menu. The team can also arrange for breakfast to be brought to your room or Berber Tent on request.

Lunch is usually a very casual affair, served around the pool or at the pool bar on nicer days. In the evening, the menu and the setting will vary. Join fellow guests for pre-dinner drinks before dining in the main restaurant, on the roof terrace, by the pool terrace, or even around the reflecting pool, depending on the instructions in the note slipped under your door in late afternoon. The à la carte menu is always available, but traditional Berber feasts family style as well as multiple course tasting menus with Moroccan and international themes. On Saturdays, the 5-course Moroccan tasting menu is especially tasty.

Kayla Douglas

With an intimate fireside bar for pre-dinner cocktails, Kanoun Restaurant offers a great spot for drinks. Otherwise, the Library is a super cozy spot for an adult beverage or some tea. Or, if you prefer hanging in your room, the mini-fridge beer and wine is included.

While children of all ages are welcome at Kasbah Tamadot during selected times of the year, this really is an ideal spot for families with grown children or couples. This property exudes romance, so it’s the perfect spot to celebrate with a significant other.