Escape to the Land of the Berbers
Throughout the country, despite the years of French and Spanish colonial rule and the presence of cosmopolitan cities, the past constantly makes its presence felt. Fez, perhaps the most beautiful of all Arab cities, maintains a life still rooted in medieval times - when the Moroccan kingdom stretched from Senegal to northern Spain - while in the mountains of the Atlas and the Rif, it’s still possible to draw up tribal maps of the Berber population.
Itinerary Description
Venture into the Land of the Berbers, where the simplicity of this ancient culture unfolds in the city and the desert. Spend 12 days in Morocco’s most decadent accommodations, exploring the diverse terrain by day and retiring to resplendent abodes each evening.
Begin your Moroccan journey with a stay in Le Royal Mansour Méridien and a tour of the sights of Casablanca before transferring to the edge of the Sahara. In the “Region of the Thousand Kasbahs” guests will find Dar Ahlam, a 19th-century Kasbah in the heart of the Skoura oasis, surrounded by olive and palm trees. Beyond the grounds of this grandiose retreat the ancient Kasbahs and secluded oases will come to life on treks to visit the timeless fortified cities and meet the Berbers who still call them home. Among these is Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and favorite location of filmmakers. Next, it’s a picturesque drive back over the Atlas to Marrakesh, Morocco’s cosmopolitan hub of culture and history. Retire to La Sultana for three nights, tucked away in your own private Medina on the city’s edge. Split your time between the highlights in the city, including the bustling Jemaa El Fna, and the thrill of zipping through the Palm Grove on a quadbike. Local hospitality shines at a private henna party and over a cup of tea at a local home. Continue on to the Asni Valley, an hour outside of Marrakesh, to experience authentic Moroccan leisure in Sir Richard Branson’s Kasbah Tamadot. From here you will embark on a trek by mule to a remote Berber community for a local lunch. End your journey on the coast at Essaouira, a city famous for its roots as the link between northern Africa and Europe during the caravan trade. Stay at the stately L’Heure Bleue Palais, a regal home found in the heart of Essaouira’s historic Medina. See the city sights on a guided tour and embark on a picturesque horseback ride on your final day in the city. Your horse will kick up sand as you travel along the shore ~ with Essaouira’s ancient city walls as your view.
Suggested Itinerary-at-a-Glance
Day 1: Arrive Casablanca / Le Royal Mansour Méridien
Day 2: Ouarzazate / Dar Ahlam (B,L,D)
Day 3: Ouarzazate / Dar Ahlam (B,L,D)
Day 4: Ouarzazate / Dar Ahlam (B,L,D)
Day 5: Marrakesh / La Sultana (B,L)
Day 6: Marrakesh / La Sultana (B)
Day 7: Marrakesh / La Sultana (B,D)
Day 8: Marrakesh / Kasbah Tamadot (B)
Day 9: Marrakesh / Kasbah Tamadot (B,L)
Day 10: Essaouira / L'Heure Bleue Palais (B)
Day 11: Essaouira / L’Heure Bleue Palais (B)
Day 12: Departure (B)
Kasbah Tamadot
Located at the foothills of the Atlas mountains, Kasbah Tamadot is part of the prestigious family of Virgin Limited Edition, Sir Richard Branson's collection of exceptional international properties.
Tucked away behind walls, its own private medina, La Sultana is one of Marrakesh's premier destinations. Experience palace living on the edge of the busy city, a calm sanctuary where classic elegance meets modern splendor.
in association/Ker & Downey
