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At a Glance

In the late 1990s, Sir Richard Branson’s parents stumbled upon the private home of an antiques dealer in the Atlas Mountains while visiting their son—who was attempting to travel around the world by hot-air balloon. They introduced Sir Richard to the place and he purchased the house and its vast collection of antiques. In the following years, Branson transformed Kasbah Tamadot into a boutique hotel with tented suites filled with Moroccan décor and one-of-a-kind treasures. The 28 guest rooms and spa are decked out in traditional Moroccan and Bedouin style and have unique views and layouts. Many of the Berber Tented Suites come with private terraces, hot tubs, outdoor dining areas and baths with picture-perfect views of the Atlas Mountains—all one hour south of Marrakech by car.

The Standout: Fabulous dinners in unique and special locations with incredible views
Don’t Miss: Hiking in nearby Imlil, in the foothills of Mount Toubkal

Indagare Loves

• The Moroccan antiques and crafts decorating the rooms
• The expansive valley views, especially from the pool
• Visits to Berber villages and opportunities to engage in the Eve Branson Foundation, the family’s philanthropic endeavors

Kasbah Tamadot Review

One hour south of Marrakech, Kasbah Tamadot is a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The fairytale palace retreat, described by one Indagare member as “practically perfect,” is part of Sir Richard Branson’s Limited Edition hotel group, offering their signature mix of high luxury and an authentic appreciation of location and community. The hotel is popular with couples and big family groups who enjoy the privacy of its isolated location and distractions of the adventurous excursions and spa. Beginning in 2022, the property allows children of all ages, making it a great family getaway from Marrakech.

All bedrooms are decked out in traditional Moroccan and Bedouin style with antiques from around the world, and each of the bedrooms in the main house has a unique view, style and layout. In the Master Suite, a short walk from the main building, there are three separate rooms and a private pool making it popular with groups and those wanting extra privacy. The most luxurious rooms are the 10 Berber Tent Suites, and many of them have private terraces, jacuzzis, outdoor dining areas, plus baths positioned to take full advantage of the stunning Atlas Mountains views.

There is one restaurant, Kanoun, offering relaxed fireside dining with both local and international menus, plus a great selection of Moroccan wines. Guests can also eat under the stars on the rooftop or request a private picnic at one of the many stunning spots around the hotel. The kitchen also offers cooking classes, by special arrangement, where guests can learn traditional Moroccan and Berber dishes.

There are a huge range of activities on offer and complimentary on-site tennis and a three-hour morning walk on Thursdays and Sundays. The hotel can also arrange more challenging guided hikes through the Atlas Mountains, including a two-day trek to the Toubkal peak, the highest point in North Africa. Nearby, there is also mule riding and 4×4 excursions through the Ourika Valley to the Saffron Gardens (where the hotel sources its beauty products). Alternatively, the Asounfou Spa (named after the Berber word for relaxation) is the perfect escape, with an indoor pool, five treatment rooms, a sauna and traditional hammam. There is also a spectacular hillside outdoor massage area, perfect for couples.

Who Should Stay

Couples and families looking for a more chic and private experience with many options for adventure

Author

• Melissa Biggs Bradley