All Year Round
In search of an invigorating and awe-inspiring weekend of activity within easy reach of home? You'll be hard pressed to find a better destination than Morocco's enchanting Atlas Mountains. Just an hour away from the buzzing souks of Marrakech, these mountains offer a heady mix of solitude and peaceful serenity amongst some of the most stunning scenery you are ever likely to see. Spend your days trekking along winding mountain paths fringed by lime groves and olive trees; these paths have been trodden by nomadic Berber tribes for centuries. As either a stand-alone experience or combined with a visit to Marrakech (it makes for a brilliant 'fast then slow' combination) a trip to the Atlas Mountains is a must for anyone looking to truly get away from it all - and you can easily squeeze it all into a weekend.
The mountains can be visited throughout the year with each season bringing a distinct feelent feel to the area. As the weather warms over the spring and the summer months, enjoy day-long treks (led by local guides) through the lush undulating landscape of the mountains. You'll discover traditional Berber villages hidden away in the mountains' nooks and crannies, and get a truly authentic taste of Moroccan life. The cooler climate of the winter months brings a totally new perspective to the tower peaks of the range with increasing amounts of snow covering the area. Treks can still be enjoyed in the lower foothills of the mountains and skiing dominates the higher reaches.
While you're up in the Atlas, a stay in the beguiling Kasbah Tamadot is not to be missed. Situated in the lower foothills, this stunning residence offers beautiful gardens and a relaxing spa. As a base from which to explore the mountains there is none better. After a day in the surrounding foothills return for sweet mint tea and delicious local delicacies by the open fire or discover the benefits of the Hammam Spa and treatments using locally produced oils.
It might be Marrakech that always gets the coverage (and we can understand why) but just an hour away lies an area that offers an experience matching any stay in the buzzing capital. We like to think of it as the ultimate 'weekend away from it all'.
