Description
Kasbah du Toubkal in it’s own words is not a hotel but a ’Berber Hospitality Centre’, the result of an imaginative Berber and European partnership, who believe that the beauty of Toubkal National Park should be accessible to all who respect it. To this end the Kasbah has been transformed using traditional methods, from the home of a Feudal Caid into an unprecedented haven; one that provides a variety of accommodation and meets differing requirements and budgets. As such, the Kasbah offers both rooms & suites as well dormitories for larger groups in a welcoming environment for people seeking a comfortable mountain refuge in a stunning setting.
At 1800m above sea level, Kasbah du Toubkal looks out over three major valleys carved out of rocky mountains rising to over 4000m. One of these mountains is Mount Toubkal, the highest in North Africa and the Kasbah can arrange treks not only to the base camp but also to the summit of this impressive mountain.
The Kasbah is reached by a short walk from the village of Imlil, while a mule will carry bags up the path to the property. On arrival, guests are greeted by the most charming locals who will encourage them to treat the place as their home and take pleasure in serving set menus of traditional local dishes and gallons of mint tea. While the Berbers themselves do not drink and hence do not serve alcohol, guests are welcome to bring and serve their own preferred tipple.
Eco-tourism is also high on the agenda here which combined with the atmosphere and tranquillity of the area makes the Kasbah the perfect mountain retreat.
Guide price
£975 Per person
£975 per person for 5 nights, based on 2 people sharing a Deluxe Room, on a bed and breakfast basis, including international flights and transfers.
Accommodation
Kasbah Du Toubkal's two Superior and five Deluxe Rooms (with balconies) are all en-suite and are simply decorated with walnut carved furniture and traditional Berber rugs. For guests who wish to have more privacy and their own private lounge, dining room and kitchen. The Garden House is a luxurious 3-bedroom house within the kasbah with its own entrance, kitchen and a stunning lounge with an open fire and a 12 metre plate glass wall looking up towards the mountains and the peak of Jbel Toubkal. It has been designed in such a way that each of its three bedrooms can also be booked separately.
Childcare
The kasbah provides a great opportunity to introduce children to a fascinating and friendly culture and there are many easy walks that will suit families (and mules can be provided for tired legs). The kasbah are very experienced at having younger adventurers around and the apartment is very well suited for families. There is no swimming pool but in the summer Berber boys do swim in a nearby river and children may find joining in with this fun. Babysitting can be arranged on request.
Facilities
Kasbah Du Toubkal has two huge rooftop terraces with shaded areas perfect for relaxation with surrounding mountain views. There is also a hammam and plunge pool, and a book and music library with board games. The village of Imlil more or less shuts down in the evening so evening meals are taken at the Kasbah as are delicious hearty breakfasts. Lunch can be enjoyed on the terrace of a packed lunch can be arranged if you are out for the day.
Activities
Trekking is the main activity here - short strolls, half and full day treks and ascents of Toubkal, North Africa's highest mountain can all be arranged. For walkers and trekkers wanting to do a multi-day excursion, camping or sleeping in a local village house is not for everyone. For those not wanting to compromise on accommodation standards, the kasbah has built Azzaden Trekking Lodge on the outskirts of Aid Aissa, a traditional Berber village in a neighbouring remote valley. Here all the creature comforts can be found including underfloor heating. Please note that many non trekkers come to the kasbah for pure relaxation, the views from the roof terraces are a tonic alone.
When to travel
The Altas Mountains can also be visited year-round, although it does get cold in winter, with averages in the late teens celsius.
Jan
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Above the village of Imlil, 1.5hrs from Marrakech
How to get there
3.5hr direct flight then 1.5hr private transfer by road