Morocco : Atlas Mountains
The Atlas Mountains have three separate mountain ranges running east to west along the backbone of Morocco. In the north the Middle Atlas rise to an altitude of 3340 metres, this area has endless rolling hills and thick forests, could easily be mistaken for areas of southern Europe. Here you can walk through thick cedar forests, see Barbary apes, impressive waterfalls and climb Joubal Bou Iblane as well as other peaks. Running along the central part of the country are the High Atlas Mountains, the highest mountain range in Morocco, peaks reaching 4167 metres. This range is home to some of the most beautiful valleys and mountain passes as well as the Dades and Todra gorges. Make some time to meet some of the incredibly friendly local Berber villagers and bear in mind that these areas do not see many foreigners. If you really want to explore, the Anti Atlas (the most southern range before the Sahara desert) is the place for you. This area is dry by comparison of the other mountainous ranges, and is sparsely populated, to trek here expect to carry your own supplies and take detailed maps as guides and local knowledge are difficult to come by.
Treks can be organised on request for an overnight visit or over a week of walking depending on your party size and chosen route. Local experts guide all organised treks into the mountains, mules carry all the equipment and evening accommodation is comfortable with hearty local meals.
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Kasbah du Toubkal
At 1800 metres above sea level, Kasbah du Toubkal looks out over three major valleys carved out of majestic rocky mountains rising to over 4000 metres. This is the home of eleven villages of the Ait Mizane tribe of the High Atlas Mountains. The Kasbah is perched on a great rock outcrop above the main village of Imlil with panoramic views of the mountains, valleys and waterfalls. Here you are made to feel that you are staying in someone's home rather than a hotel. There is electricity, plenty of hot water, beautiful bathrooms and even a traditional Hammam (steam bath). There are communal rooms for eating and meeting.
The bedrooms inside, all furnished in Moroccan style, are clustered around a tiled inner courtyard which is open to the sky. Stairs lead to the large flat roof where many visitors choose to sleep under the stars and which offers spectacular views.
The ascent of the neighbouring Jbel Toubkal (4,167 metres), North Africa's highest mountain, is achievable during the summer months without specialist climbing skills. Most people who are reasonably fit and determined can achieve this goal and the views are magnificent - on a clear day you can see the Sahara. Numerous activities are available, ranging from gentle rambles through the villages around the Kasbah to extended treks of one or more days. The longer treks will be supported by local guides and mules to carry your luggage, staying in the houses of the local inhabitants and/or mountain huts.
"Amazing views and loved the trek. The dinner menu is just one choice but they were happy to cook an alternative if you asked."
Rosie and Peter, London
"Nothing was too much trouble for the staff at this outstanding place."
George and Sheila, Stirling
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La Roseraie
La Roseraie is a stunning property tucked away in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains at an altitude of 3000 feet next to the village of Ouirgane and only an hour's drive from Marrakech. It is set in 50 acres of beautiful rose gardens, park and farmland.
There are 40 cottage-style en-suite rooms and suites, all with patios leading into the gardens and some with an open wood-burning fireplace. There are two swimming pools (1 indoor and 1 outdoor) and two tennis courts. Meals are served on the shaded terrace or the indoor restaurant. There is a cosy lounge with a roaring fire for the chilly winter evenings. La Roseraie is a perfect haven for relaxation and for artists, birdwatchers, gardeners and ramblers alike.
The well established riding centre at La Roseraie has superb Arab horses which guests can ride by the hour or by the day or trek with a local guide into the surrounding countryside.
La Roseraie offers its guests the use of an heated indoor pool, jacuzzi, hammam, sauna and fitness equipment together with staff specialising in facial and body treatments in Shiatsu.
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Kasbah Tamadot
Kasbah Tamadot is Richard Branson's Moroccan retreat, and is a magical walled hideaway in the High Atlas Mountains with lovely peaceful courtyards, landscaped gardens and breathtaking views. There are 24 striking bedrooms, including eight suites (one with its own private pool), six tented Berber suites with private plunge pools and a Master Suite with three bedrooms. All the rooms and suites are very stylishly and individually decorated with traditional Moroccan furnishings and antiques. An infinity pool looks straight out to the mountains, and there’s a spa and gym, hammam, floodlit tennis courts, while excursions, including trekking, horse-riding and hot air ballooning can all be organised from here. The restaurant serves superb Moroccan, African and international dishes.
