Kasbah Tamadot
Asni, Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Reviewed by
Michael Cullen
It was in 1998 that Richard Branson's mother Eve first came across this crenellated kasbah, perched dramatically on a hilltop and surrounded by the peaks of the High Atlas. At that time it belonged to an Italian antiques dealer who had opened it up to his friends. But she saw the potential of a luxury north African retreat and the Tamadot project was born.
After 7 years of labyrinthine negotiations and top-to-toe refurbs, it finally opened its carved and inlaid gates to guests seeking the ultimate luxury in the heart of Morocco's most spectacular mountains. Today, the extensive gardens are carefully landscaped with mature rose, fruit and cactus plants, the courtyards hold a 5-star spa with indoor pool, and the suites combine contemporary design with colourful Moroccan antiques. Outside lies a cluster of astonishing Berber-style tents, offering that north African luxe safari vibe, and half a dozen elegant riads. Children are welcome year round and the 'Kasbah Kids' programme provides heaps of fun activities. A destination in itself, we relished unwinding beside the stunning infinity pool, gazing over the snow-capped mountains and dining in the innovative restaurant. It was worth the wait.
After 7 years of labyrinthine negotiations and top-to-toe refurbs, it finally opened its carved and inlaid gates to guests seeking the ultimate luxury in the heart of Morocco's most spectacular mountains. Today, the extensive gardens are carefully landscaped with mature rose, fruit and cactus plants, the courtyards hold a 5-star spa with indoor pool, and the suites combine contemporary design with colourful Moroccan antiques. Outside lies a cluster of astonishing Berber-style tents, offering that north African luxe safari vibe, and half a dozen elegant riads. Children are welcome year round and the 'Kasbah Kids' programme provides heaps of fun activities. A destination in itself, we relished unwinding beside the stunning infinity pool, gazing over the snow-capped mountains and dining in the innovative restaurant. It was worth the wait.
Highs
- The most luxurious hotel in the Atlas Mountains, with amazing facilities and one of the finest mountain vistas in north Africa
- The interiors are just stunning – before Branson, the kasbah was home to Luciano Tempo, a world-renown antiques dealer and designer, so every room is filled with stunning pieces
- Superb cuisine and wines, overseen by an acclaimed chef - treat yourself to the tasting menu
- Initiate and support community projects, such as teaching local women crafts; some of their creations (rugs, cushions etc.) decorate the hotel; the team are 100% Moroccan too
- A heavenly retreat from the bustle of Marrakech – yet within a 45-minute drive
Lows
- The Berber Tented Suites are particularly pricey, but then they are staggeringly opulent – probably the comfiest tents in the world!
- This is a family friendly resort, so guests seeking a more adult experience may wish to avoid school holidays
- The Atlas can be surprisingly cold in winter – but rooms have heating, ponchos and heated blankets
Best time to go
The best period is March-early November. From June to August it can be pretty warm, though always about 10 degrees cooler than Marrakech and the plains. March-May and September-October are perhaps the best months for active types. From December to February, expect temperatures between 10-20 celsius, and the occasional dusting of snow on the peaks round about.
Our top tips
Don't worry about bringing your own entertainment - there's a well-stocked library, plus music and entertainment systems so that if the mountains turn cloudy and wet, you've got every excuse to snuggle in the bedroom.
Likewise they provide umbrellas, sun hats and ponchos, as well as babouches (slippers) which you can take home with you... so no need to haggle for those at great length in the souks (unless you enjoy it, of course).
Likewise they provide umbrellas, sun hats and ponchos, as well as babouches (slippers) which you can take home with you... so no need to haggle for those at great length in the souks (unless you enjoy it, of course).