Embrace Nature in Luxurious Accommodation
Nestled high above the picturesque Ourika Valley in Morocco's Atlas Mountains lies a serene hotel that boasts an impressive array of accommodations, featuring a total of forty-two rooms. These rooms are thoughtfully distributed across the main building, a garden wing, a private villa, and an 11-room addition aptly named The Retreat, each designed to provide a unique experience without the distraction of televisions. The journey to this hidden gem begins in Tnine Ourika, a quaint market town located approximately 40 minutes from Marrakech. However, as one ventures beyond the town, the paved roads give way to rugged terrain, necessitating the use of a 4x4 vehicle provided by the hotel, as the narrow pathways can be challenging to navigate. The hotel's enchanting location is marked by walls crafted from the same reddish clay as the surrounding hills, harmoniously blending into the stunning natural landscape.
A Testament to Sustainable Architecture
The genesis of this remarkable retreat dates back to 2004 when an enterprising English owner, who was already running a riad in Marrakech, discovered this idyllic hilltop. At the time, the absence of a road meant that construction materials and water were transported by donkey, and the access paths were painstakingly carved by hand. Today, a sophisticated system pumps water from wells situated over 500 meters uphill, a testament to the ingenuity and commitment to sustainability that continues to characterize the property. Over five years, the main building and its lush gardens took shape, with subsequent expansions including the garden wing and the private villa, followed by the addition of The Retreat during the pandemic, catering specifically to weddings and group gatherings.
The architectural style employed here is known as pisé, or rammed earth, which naturally regulates indoor temperatures, eliminating the need for air conditioning. This ingenious design keeps the interiors comfortably cool during the day and pleasantly warm at night. The eco-friendly elements of the hotel include a biodigester that converts kitchen waste into electricity, solar panels that provide hot water and underfloor heating, and an innovative water recycling system. This commitment to sustainability is not merely a marketing tool; it is an essential strategy for operating in such a remote location, far from conventional power sources.
The interiors of the hotel reflect the earthy hues of the surrounding landscape, featuring terracotta floors, traditional beijmat clay tiles, and walls adorned in soft shades of cream and ochre. Each room showcases a unique blend of decor, incorporating Beni Ourain rugs, vintage Art Deco lamps sourced from Marrakech souks, and locally crafted leather chairs, creating a cozy yet eclectic atmosphere. With fifteen rooms located in the main building and sixteen more scattered throughout the gardens—complete with a five-bedroom villa boasting an infinity pool—the accommodations are diverse and cater to various preferences. The villa also features a sitting room with a glass roof, providing a stunning venue for stargazing, enhancing the overall allure of this tranquil retreat.
The Retreat, which houses eleven additional rooms spread across three floors, is designed with groups in mind, although it remains open to all guests. The Superior category rooms, the smallest in this section, offer spacious layouts of around 40 square meters, each equipped with a king bed that can be converted into twin beds, private bathrooms, and most featuring a terrace. The absence of televisions and air conditioning in all rooms reflects a conscious decision to encourage guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Notably, one upstairs room boasts a bathtub positioned for a breathtaking view of the national park.
The culinary offerings at the hotel are a delightful fusion of Berber and European cuisine, with many ingredients sourced from the hotel's own gardens or nearby villages, ensuring a fresh and authentic dining experience. With a team of around sixty dedicated staff members, primarily hailing from the local villages, the hotel provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, whether guests are enjoying the spa, dining in the restaurant, or exploring the grounds.
The breathtaking scenery surrounding the hotel is a significant highlight, with the Ourika River flowing beneath, flanked by groves of olive, orange, and lemon trees, and terraced fields leading down to the water. The majestic High Atlas Mountains, often capped with snow well into spring, form a stunning backdrop visible from the hotel's terraces. For those seeking adventure, the nearby village of Setti Fatma is famous for its series of seven waterfalls, accessible via a leisurely two-hour hike. Additionally, the ski slopes at Oukaïmeden are conveniently close, providing an excellent winter excursion option.
Guests can take advantage of the hotel's arrangements for horseback riding, camel trekking, and guided excursions to nearby villages such as Timalizen and Tagadirte, allowing for an immersive experience without the need to return to Marrakech. For longer hikes into the national park, a mule named Pepito carries the picnic supplies, emphasizing the authentic and remote nature of this extraordinary getaway.
As reported by cairoscene.com.
