Richard Branson bought Kasbah Tamadot as his palatial mountain retreat, and it opened in 2005. It is just a 45-minute drive from Marrakech, so you could base yourself here and dip into the city if you choose to. Many guests come for three or four nights, but you can easily spend a week soaking up the views, exploring the mountains and relaxing by the pool.
Kasbah Tamadot certainly has the ‘wow’ factor when you walk through the landscaped gardens featuring rose, fruit and cactus plants. It is located close to Asni, leading to the High Atlas Mountains around Imlil. Although it sits on the roadside, the gardens disguise the noise, and the views over the valley on the other side are still delightful.
It took seven years of a major refurbishment to bring Kasbah Tamadot to life. There are 28 rooms and suites, so it still retains a boutique feel in every respect. Each room is individually designed and uses the collection of the former owner, Luciano Tempo. He was a renowned antique dealer and interior designer and assembled a stunning collection proudly adorned in the rooms and suites.
Terracotta floor tiles merge seamlessly with carved wooden chests and inviting hand-made king-size beds. Some have roofs that feature ornate mosaics. You can opt for a smaller Superior or Deluxe Room or add in living space with the Superior or Deluxe Suites. You either get a ‘Moroccan’ or ‘Contemporary’ bathroom – the Moroccan one having a sunken bathtub and the latter a freestanding bathtub. The Master Suite is a mini-Kasbah and has three rooms, so ideal for a large family or group travelling together.
There is also a selection of Berber Tented Suites in the gardens, some with private Jacuzzis. They are air-conditioned in the summer and warm and toasty in winter.
The Kanoun restaurant has the most glorious setting, and you can enjoy the terrace for dining or a pre-dinner cocktail (or two, as the views are so good). They offer a blend of Moroccan and International cuisine of the highest standard. Lunch is usually served beside the pool.
You can also make use of the Asounfou Spa, which also has an indoor pool and five treatment rooms, a sauna and a Moroccan hammam. They use products from Yon-Ka.