Visitor Comments
Loved it!
…genuinely hospitable staff, gorgeous views, conducive to meeting interesting fellow travelers, thoughtful attention to detail, exceptional food. Maybe the best place I’ve ever stayed.
Mitzy Applegate, via Facebook
Exceptional encounter with Atlas Mountains Berbers of Morocco
by axismundi, TripAdvisor
This is a rare place. A labor of love of two men—one Berber and one English—who created a luxurious mountain haven while honoring the qualities of the local culture (food, architecture, welcoming hospitality). All the comforts are provided including a pleasing hamman (steam room); reading room ,wifi, all in a dramatic mountain setting facing the Toubkal peak (13,000 ft); great local food. Easy access to local trails into mountainside Berber villages and into the high reaches—all with Kasbah provided guides and mules. The Kasbah rates among my top-five worldwide for luxury in an exceptional traditional rural setting (in this case mountainous). Scorcese’s Kundun (Dalai Lama) was filmed in Morocco and parts at the Kasbah.
Very, very special - setting, accommodation, food and especially people
by Heron2912, TripAdvisor
The Kasbah has been described as “not so much a hotel - more of a Berber hospitality experience”. My wife and I discovered that this is NOT pretentious waffle, but a very good description of what has been, for us, a unique and wonderful experience.
The setting is exceptional - the Kasbah is on a small outcrop at about the level of the tree-line, at the confluence of several small valleys. Whichever way you look, the views are stunning with woodland, waterfalls, moluntains and small Berber villages all around you.
We had a standard room which was at the top of a small tower and had its own roof terrace, where we could ascend with a hot drink in the cool of the early morning to watch the sun creep over the mountains before bathing the slopes below. Timeless and magical.
The room itself was traditional, not luxurious, but very comfortably and pleasantly furnished. Fresh fruit, non-alcoholic drinks, dates, figs and assorted nuts were provided along with bottled water and facilities for brewing those early morning hot drinks. Surprise facilities included a cd-player, an i-pod docking station and traditional leather slippers and jbebel(?) for our use during our stay.
Food was again, excellent, being primarily traditional Berber dishes such as salads, tagines and cous cous, but beautifully cooked and incredibly tasty. I don't think we managed to finish a single meal, given the quantities. Breakfast was a semi-buffet affair with cereal, fruit, yoghourt, pancakes, eggs and lovely home-baked bread.
The outstanding feature for us, though, was the friendliness and hospitality of the people we met - both the staff within the Kasbah (where the service was outstanding)and the villagers, moving back and forth along the various mule tracks. All were very open, polite, interested and interesting. Even the shopkeepers (who we have found very pushy in some places) seemed more interested in arriving at a mutually beneficial arrangement than extorting every last dirham - shopping was actually an enjoyable experience.
Having said all that, I don't think the Kasbah will be for everybody. If you need to be surrounded by luxury; if you want to lounge around a pool in swimming kit; if you want lively entertainment and shows; if you want to hang around in bars; if you believe that staff are modern-day servants; if you like to drive everywhere, then this is not likely to be your sort of place.
If you appreciate an opportunity to simply relax; if you are interested in learning about a culture, rather than imposing your own; if you are reasonably fit and love walking in woods and mountains; if you enjoy simple food, from fresh ingredients, beautifully cooked; if you like engaging with local people in a low-key, non-intrusive way; if you want to feel like a guest, rather than a client, then the Kasbah might suit you very well.
We booked through Discover Ltd but did make direct contact with the Kasbah before we went and all these preliminary contacts set the tone for our stay All arrangements, including the car transfer from Marrakech to Imlil, worked exactly as we were told (except the return mule down to Imlil, which was 15 minutes late!).
We never return to the places we visit (except Venice!) but will be returning to the Kasbah as soon as we are able.
My wife and I recently stayed at the Kasbah (4th to 8th June 2009) and wanted to say what a wonderful time we had there. The setting, the accommodation, the food and the environment were absolutely outstanding. What made the trip most memorable, however, was the warm welcome that we experienced—not only from the staff but also from the people we encountered on the surrounding trails. A very big thank you to all concerned. We tend not to return to places visited, as the world has so much to offer, but have promised ourselves that the Kasbah will be an exception.
David Knight
Stunningly beautiful
by africajourneyman, TripAdvisor
Kasbah du Toubkal seems to receive a mixture of reviews, the majority fantastic but some poor. I can understand the different viewpoints but can only offer comments on our experience.
My fiance and I stayed two nights in the Garden House to celebrate our engagement. The room was undoubtedly very expensive, and well beyond what I've ever spent on accommodation before anywhere in the world, but WOW what a place.
The Garden House is absolutely stunning. It's located a little down from the main buildings which makes it very quiet and secluded, certainly totally away from the bustle and hassle others have complained about. The apartment itself is stunning, with breathtaking views out to Toubkal and across the valley. Furnishings were simple but beautiful. The apartment itself is huge with lovely kitchen, two dining tables, sofas around a cosy wood fire and lovely bedroom downstairs. There are even stunning views from the bathtub! We really did spend much of our two days open mouthed at how beautiful the views were and what an utterly amazing place we were staying in.
We had all our meals in the Garden House and staff were warm and friendly, attentive but without being intrusive in any way. The hospitality lived up to everything stated by the hotel and it meant a wonderful combination of luxury without the snootyness some five star hotels can have. We loved it and can only praise our experience most highly. We will never forget it. Clearly the price means this won't be for many people, but if you are looking for a very special experience for honeymoon, engagement or anniversary this place is absolutely fantastic. Loved it.
Just a final comment on Kasbah Tamadot (Richard Branson’s place) as some people have compared the two. We had lunch there on the way to Kasbah du Toubkal and Tamadot arranged all our transfers from Marrakech and up to Imlil. The experience was also very good. Staff extremely professional but friendly and relaxed too, very good service and nice setting but nothing on Kasbah du Toubkal. It struck me that these are two very different places catering to slightly different markets though we did see some people at both. Do choose carefully. However, for me, we got a stunning apartment for the price of regular rooms at Kasbah Tamadot and it was the right choice.
“I would like to emphasise what a special place you have created; with caring staff, beautiful scenery, tasty food and an enchanting atmosphere. We loved our stay, it was such a tonic and I can’t wait to return next year…this time to climb Toubkal.
“You have created an inspiration for many people and I would like to thank you for all you have done for that village and all that visit it.”
Emma Folland
Soul Journey
Kasbah Du Toubkal
Was once merely just a dream -
A nostalgic reminder
Of the glory it had seen.
Yet, with the inspiration
That filled the hearts of several men,
In its former grandeur
It stands proudly once again.
A haven for the soul -
A retreat beyond compare,
A spiritual experience
For everyone to share.
Leading all to appreciate
The Earth that God has made -
The beauty and magnificence
That all around us is displayed.
The grandeur of the mountains,
So sturdy, strong and tall
Reminding us that we are one -
Together one and all.
For, Humanity’s a family
Eternally connected -
Let us stand side by side
Upon the Earth God has perfected.
It’s so awesome to behold
The glory of Creation -
Every tree, every blossom
And the people of each nation.
Teach every single one of us
Our hearts to open wide
And to take the outstretched Hand
That’s always there to walk beside.
Barbara J Laing
UK
“We have lived in five or six star hotels before and have also stayed in half-star budget accommodation. But none of those is akin to this Kasbah, for everything here (including the decoration and setting, the services and the atmosphere) are just right to put you at ease.
“The architecture ‘sub-merges’ into the mountains and the history as well as the contribution the Kasbah did to the nearby local villages is also remarkable. We are impressed with the insight/vision of Discover Ltd.
“It happens that it is Thanksgiving today. We wish to express our gratitude to all staff here including the chefs for their excellent service and food. Were grateful for the opportunity to stay here. This is a memorable experience in our honeymoon. Married 5 days.”
November 2005
“My husband and I received a stay at the Kasbah du Toubkal as a wedding gift. Our three days here have truly been a magnificent way to explore the natural beauty of the maghreb and to understand the culture and lifestyle of the Berber people, whose history is so central to Morocco, our new home.
This trip has opened my eyes to what a wonderful experience it is to spend a year in this fascinating country. Many thanks to the Kasbah du Toubkal and especially to our guide Houssein for introducing us to a new way of seeing the world.
November 2005
“…with beautiful snow on the mountains and clear blue sky, the audacious pursuit which is the Kasbah Toubkal presented itself in all its beauty.”
There is a Kasbah in Imlil
Which sits high up on a hill
With beautiful views
From each window you choose
The Garden House is a thrill
H, E and T Kuenzlen
“Thanks to Mike and the Kasbah team for allowing us to experience the magic. It is wonderful to know that there are people crazy enough and determined enough to make this happen. Everyone involved can be proud to have created this authentic Moroccan experience which is second to none in this country.”
Joslen and Blyth Kindersley Casablanca/Germany/France
“Just a brief note to thank you for a magical stay. What a place! You’ve truly created a piece of history. With beautiful people and stunning scenery it reminds you that everyone should make time to be inspired by the natural world.”
Steve and Kate
“Wow! What an amazing place – stunning scenery and great hospitality. A wonderful end to a faboulous honeymoon in Morocco – We will be back.”
Sarah and Justin Bishop.
“It’s a wonderful place! The hospitality is superb and we hope to return.”
Rosemary and David Wood.
“A fantastic place a super retreat so friendly, so delightful enchanting. We love it and will return to experience the kasbah one summer in the future. Thank you.”
Jonathon and Sarah Dalton, 18th November 2003
“My wife and I have had an outstanding holiday in Morocco. Our thanks to all of you who set it up.”
Tim and Sue
“Thank you for the wonderful trip. This was a far better experience than we had dreamed of. Our guide Mohammed and the two muleteers were always helpful and fun and took care of our every need. The mint tea and food were exceptional.
“This was superb value for our money and we feel we got a very genuine view of mountain berber culture and tremendous scenery. Thank you again for the highlight of our Moroccan vacation.”
Chris and Jocelyn Chandler
“A breathtaking experience! Happy to set foot here.”
L. Mercier Canada
“What a beautiful place. We feel well exercised, well relaxed and very well fed! A real Oasis during our time in Morocco. Thank you so much.”
Jo Benwell and Corinna Archer
“I’ve come from Canada and this is the most exciting thing in the world.”
Emma Macdonald Vancouver
“It’s got to be said that this is by far the best place we’ve stayed in. The area is beautiful and all the people are so friendly.”
Philippa Braun
“I’ve had a really wonderful time here. The views have been amazing and the food delicious! It has been an experience of a lifetime and the memories will last me my lifetime. Thank you very much for making my stay so special.”
Emily Mary Ellen
“We were all really impressed with the Kasbah – it surpassed everybody’s expectations. It seems to strike the perfect balance between comfort, a relaxed atmosphere and local character. The attention to detail in terms of architecture, decoration and style is commendable, and the service of your staff was excellent. You must be very proud.”
Paul Wright
“We were both blown away (as were our friends from the UK) by the new Garden House. What a fantastic job the Toubkal team have done! And it was great to see the obvious pride that Hajj Maurice and the rest of the team took in the new development. The Kasbah is clearly going from strength to strength. We had such a lovely, restful time. Many, many thanks.”
Rupert Joy, Deputy Head of Mission British Embassy, Rabat January 2003
“Jamie and I had the most wonderful holiday in Morocco but undoubtedly the highlight was our stay at the Kasbah. It is the most beautiful building in the most fabulous position. Our room in the tower was amazing – definite ‘wow’ value! So much effort has been made to furnish the rooms so that you really feel as if you are staying somewhere with lots of history (and the shower is great too).
But above all the welcome we received and the hospitality of the staff was wonderful. The atmostphere is so relaxed, you never feel you are being hassled and can do exactly what you please but someone is always at hand to help.”
Penny (York)
“The scenery, the hiking, the hammam, the staff and the other guests conspired to leave me so completely refreshed. The large postcard sits to the side of my computer. What an amazing venture you have there.”
Michael Diamond Heritage Tours Dec 2002
“The Kasbah was a fantastic place and you’re going to be pretty hard pushed to find someone that doesn’t think it’s fantastic. Could you please pass on my thanks to all the staff at the Kasbah who did a wonderful job and made us feel really welcome. They were really informative too. It really is a fantastic set up that you’ve got there and I wish you every success with it. Thank you again and best wishes.”
Dominic Tombs, Editor Global Adventure
“While I knew how beautiful the mountains and the location were, I was totally unprepared for the warmth and hospitality shown to me while staying. I came away deeply impressed by the level of friendliness and standard of service.”
Alastair Poulain
“Just wanted to email and say thanks for restoring the Kasbah so that people like us can enjoy such a place – we had a wonderful weekend and have returned to Casablanca feeling completely recharged. You have done a wonderful job and long may that spot stay so special.”
Fiona Clark, by email. November 11, 2002
“Thanks, we had a wonderful time. Your dream is everything your PR claims. My feeling is there are few places where the welcome is half as old as humankind – The Kasbah is one of them.”
David Bellamy December 2002
“It is good that the work has built this beautiful living place. Every person who contributed to the building gave a gift to me. I am grateful for a place so beautiful and harmonious, that it expands the light of the soul. Thank you.”
Nara Lampton USA July 2002
“Amazing to be in such a remote and beautiful setting and yet not to have to compromise at all on comfort. Amadin is a gorgeous room.”
Linda and Adrian Bell London June 2002
“It exceeded our expectations and the new rooms were fantastic! We stayed in the lower ground floors, which were like 5 star luxury in the mountains – the food we had was the best we had in Morocco – and the staff were brilliant. Staying at the Kasbah was definitely the highlight of our trip.”
Sarah, International Chapters September 2001
“The greatest strength of the Kasbah (greater even than the stunning location) is the people who live and work there. The rooms are superb, the food was a wonderfully rewarding adventure for us, the roof terrace is my favourite place in the world.
I am left with wonderful memories, a changed outlook on life and a burning desire to return as soon as humanly possible. I cannot say enough to congratulate everyone involved in creating something as unique and precious as the Kasbah.”
Paddy Burrows
“I have just returned from a completely magical trip to Morrocco, the magical part being our visit to the Kasbah du Toubkal. Words cannot express the strength of feeling we felt for the place and for everyone in the Kasbah – we will not be able to stay away too long.”
Judy and Helena Thompson
“One lady said ‘I feel as if I’ve died and gone to heaven’! That is a fine compliment ’cos where we live in Spain we think it’s Paradise.”
Jill Winwood
“The scenery is magnificent. The friendliness and consideration of the staff are outstanding and the Hammam was terrific after Toubkal. One of the most enjoyable experiences in my 2 and ½ years in Morocco.”
Anthony Layden, British Ambassador Rabat July 2001
Tours Organised by Discover Ltd
“I still find it hard to believe that in three days we achieved so much in such an unhurried and positive environment. The climb to the summit of Mount Toubkal was a life enhancing experience that will always be with me.
I would recommend spending time in the very well appointed and comfortable Kasbah to anyone who is looking to gain deeper insights into what is really valuable and worth doing in this world.”
Nigel Southern
“Our trip to Morocco was absolutely brilliant. We found it extremely interesting. The Moroccan people who we met were very friendly and helpful. In particular our driver, Saïd, looked after us wonderfully throughout and our guide for the trek up Toubkal was also excellent. We particularly enjoyed the Kasbah and my husband and I would love to return for another, quieter, holiday sometime. Many thanks for arranging the holiday for us.”
Sandra Grimditch
“The Riad Noga was lovely and I don’t think could be bettered. The Kasbah was one of the most incredible places we have ever been. The location is incredible and the staff could not have been more helpful. I have never seen more stars!”
Emma Ward March 2003
Corporate Stay
“I always knew that we needed an extraordinary venue to do our work on relationships and business possibilities.
The ideal place would have two main characteristics. First it would be in a geographical location which inspired awe so as to put issues and problems into perspective and create conversations that would not take place in more normal surroundings – mountains or deserts seemed likely. Second the local culture would be very different from the UK; experiencing a very different set of values in action is a great way to focus on culture and behaviour.
The Kasbah du Toubkal has both of these characteristics in abundance and has the additional bonuses which we could not have envisaged. The local culture and values are at work within the kasbah itself the place is a manifestation of Berber hospitality, personally warm and welcoming. We did not need to arrange encounters with local culture, we lived in it for a week. In addition the accommodation, in what can be politely described as the middle of nowhere, was terrific. Comfortable rooms, great food and good working/conference facilities.
The Kasbah is an experience in itself, a superb venue for organisation and business development work.”
David Parton, Director of Leadership Development, The Boots Company, February 2002