Imlil, Atlas Mountains, Morocco, Africa

“Berber hospitality at its best,” says Insider Lauren Steventon who recently stayed here and loved exploring the Atlas Mountains region. “The Kasbah du Tubjal is a MUST. It’s possible to visit just for a day trip from Marrakech, but to fully experience this unique place, you really should stay a night or two,” she says.

The Kasbah was bought by Mike McHugo in 1989, after he stayed in the village and noticed it ruined and crumbling on the hilltop, and was opened as a retreat in 1995. The location is simply spectacular. 1.800m above sea level, the Kasbah sits beneath Mount Tobkal, the highest peak in North Africa, and at the top of the Imlil valley: the walk to the Kasbah is through walnut fields, waterfalls and the homes of the villagers. In fact, you might recognize it as the Tibetan monastery in Martin Scorsese’s film, "Kundun."

There are 8 ensuite rooms, as well as a 3-bed family house. Rooms are quite rustic, but stylish in a simple way with hand-woven carpets, beautifully carved woodwork and amazing views. For avid trekkers, the Kasbah has also opened a trekking lodge a day’s walk away. Simply furnished and with solar powered heating, it is the first in the area. Very cool.

The Kasbah doesn’t just benefit curious tourists, the profits are fed into the local community. Local guides take trekkers through the mountains, explain the Berber lifestyle, and take care of guests back at the hotel—and the service couldn’t be more enthusiastic or friendly! Mc Hugo’s company, Discover Limited has also set up the Imlil Vilage Association, which has helped provide a hammam, a school, garbage disposal and an ambulance. We like and admire—and we think you will too.

Kasbah du Toubkal
Jbel Toubkal
Imlil
Morocco
33 (0)5 49 05 01 35