Walking into Kasbah Tamadot is like walking into Aladdin’s castle. Sir Richard Branson’s stunning retreat, originally a private residence, is nestled in the foot of the towering Atlas Mountains in the Berber region. 

As you are driving up to the retreat, the red clay and mud wall towns surrounding the Kasbah are reminiscent to the real ancient Morocco. This area dates back to the 16th century and any new buildings such as the Kasbah have stayed true to that century, most of them avoiding any kind of modernization.

The hotel was a private residence for an Italian merchant in the early 1980’s until it was sold to Sir Richard Branson in 1998 and opened as a hotel in 2005. His mother happened to stumble upon this magnificent home during one of her trips, before telling her son he needed to buy it and turn it into a luxury hotel. 

Since then, Virgin did a mayor renovation adding spectacular tents, upgrading the existing bedrooms and building a gigantic breathtaking pool.

The service from the moment you set foot in the hotel is superb. You have a delicious cold towel, delicious Moroccan tea and appetizers waiting for you while you check in. Then they swiftly take you to your uber chic room and drill you on the amazing activities during your stay. Make sure you request the Afulky Berber Tent during your stay if possible, the private jacuzzi overlooking the second highest peak in Africa is pretty amazing.

Your days will be filled with relaxing hours next to the spectacular pool, unforgettable hikes, traditional Moroccan delicatessens, dinners in the middle of olive tree gardens and outdoor screening of classical films like Casablanca. Dream come true!

Photographs courtesy of the property.