Kasbah du Toubkal

Setting the standard for responsible, collaborative tourism in Morocco, this wonderfully located self-defined ‘Berber hospitality centre’ offers a real insight into traditional Berber life.

A remote mountain retreat with stunning views of Mt. Toubkal (North Africa’s highest peak), authentic décor and a range of accommodation, Kasbah du Toubkal is full of character and more inspiring than a hotel stay.

With its walled setting, enchanting gardens and close ties to the local community it provides a unique opportunity to discover the culture of these proud mountain people whose simple lifestyle has changed little over the centuries.

Accommodation

14 comfortable, en suite rooms feature walnut furniture, a CD player, tea and coffee facilities and bath or shower. Standard rooms as above. Superior and Deluxe rooms are more spacious with bath, most with a terrace or balcony. The secluded and more luxurious Garden House has two suites and a superior room (rooms can be booked individually or the whole house can be booked privately, sleeping six people). The hotel also has three Berber Salons which have shared bathrooms but are ideal for families or groups.

Sustainable Features

This hotel has been specially selected to feature as part of our groundbreaking ananea collection of sustainable holidays. Environmental and socially responsible features at this hotel include:

•   All rates include a five per cent charge that benefits the Imlil Village Association community projects that include a school, an ambulance and public baths.
•   Consumption of the resort’s spring water is encouraged over plastic bottles.
•   Natural building materials were used to convert this former Feudal Caid.
•   Energy saving light bulbs are used as well as some solar heating for hot water systems.
•   A water system treats and recycles waste water.
•   The hotel instigated a rubbish collection and disposal system in the local village.
•   Guests are encouraged not to have their sheets and towels washed every day.
•   The hotel is responsible for the local tourism code and is a member of the Green Globe certification programme.
•   The hotel helps to fund college education for girls from the rural community.

Facilities

A wonderful rustic red roof terrace has panoramic mountain views and is the ideal location to sit and sip traditional mint tea, whilst the pretty gardens also host the retreat’s traditional bakery. Wholesome and traditional set meals (dietary requirements can be catered for) are taken in the dining room or on the terrace, and the relaxing hammam is the place to soothe your limbs after a day’s trekking. Day or overnight treks (staying at Kasbah du Toubkal’s sister hideaway, the Azzaden Trekking Lodge) in the local area are available, and day excursions to Marrakech can also be arranged on request.

Location

Situated high in the Atlas Mountains in the Toubkal National Park, 15 minutes walk from the village of Imlil. Approx. 90 minutes from Marrakech. Upon arrival you will be escorted up from the village to the hotel gates with a mule acting as your luggage porter.

Public transport

10-15 mins walk to Imlil Village