KASBAH BAB OURIKA

KASBAH BAB OURIKA : MOROCCO KASBAH BAB OURIKA : MOROCCO KASBAH BAB OURIKA : MOROCCO KASBAH BAB OURIKA : MOROCCO KASBAH BAB OURIKA : MOROCCO KASBAH BAB OURIKA : MOROCCO
Perched on a hilltop at the apex of the Ourika valley this beautiful boutique hotel commands panoramic views of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains and the groves of olives, oranges and lemons below. It is an exceptionally beautiful landscape and Bab Ourika has been carefully constructed using traditional Berber methods ensuring that it reflects the natural earthy colours that surround it. It is also one of the most eco-friendly buildings in Morocco using solar panelling for the hot water and under floor heating throughout, and recycles the water for use in the rose gardens.

Inside a clever use of glass allows guests breathtaking views at every turn and each of the 15 rooms has been individually decorated with Berber textiles and artefacts. In the bedrooms bed-heads have been upholstered in natural tones of leather, Beni Ourain carpets cover floor surfaces, windows are dressed with old Berber plaids (each one unique in design) and Berber pom pom blankets decorate the beds — all of these furnishings have been locally sourced, all carrying the theme of the natural earth colours that surround the Kasbah — brown, white and creams.

There is plenty to do here, a visit to the Monday Berber market, day trips to the Setti Fatma Waterfalls, mountain biking, lazy picnic lunches or just relaxing by the pool. In addition, more adventurous guests can explore the region on longer treks including the remote and unspoilt Salt National Park where you experience a taste of Berber village life as you pass through the many local villages. The Kasbah’s Guide, Mohammed, with mules and muleteers offers a choice of six different treks to suit all levels of fitness and the chef arranges individual picnic lunches or special picnics set up by the Kasbah staff in spectacular locations.

Being only 45 minutes from Marrakech, Kasbah Bab Ourika is the perfect antidote to the raucousness and hustle of the souks.
Prices from £128 per room per night.
‘Here in these spacious palm groves rising from the desert the traveller can be sure of perennial sunshine, of every comfort and diversion, and can contemplate with ceaseless satisfaction the stately and snow-clad panorama of the Atlas Mountains.’
Winston Churchill
 
Quick Guide
Copyright ©2010 Holmes Travel Ltd. All rights reserved.