Atlas Mountains accommodation

country:	Morocco
location:	Atlas MountainsSee map here
price:	From €200 half board per room plus trekking costs

Morocco holidays

Atlas Mountain holidays

description

The building of this remote trekking lodge is the start of a new concept in trekking in the Atlas and now allows guests to stay right in the heart of the spectacular Atlas Mountain without having to compromise on accommodation.

The first of lodges has been built in the village of Id Issa in the Azzaden valley. The valley of Azzaden is truly spectacular and very traditional. This new lodge (3 ensuite bedrooms) now allows trekkers to stay in complete comfort, surrounded by traditional wooden ceilings, wooden carved doors and other traditional features. Its architectural style is such that it complements the built environment of the surrounding villages which welcomes its presence in their valley.

Many local villagers were involved during the building of this lodge and they are looking forward to its opening, it is very much a welcomed development in the valley. In keeping with our sustainable standards, we have already formed a Village Association to carry out Community projects in the area.

special things to do and see here

Walking and trekking: We have many examples of possible treks in the area. Our staff are happy to discuss possibilities with you and arrange full accompanied trekking support

Climbing: The ascent of Jbel Toubkal (4167 metres), North Africa's highest mountain, is achievable during the summer months without specialist climbing skills. Most people who are reasonably fit and determined can achieve this goal and the views are magnificent - on a clear day you can see the Sahara.

Ski Mountaineering: We can also arrange ski mountaineering for you in the mountains

how to find us

This lodge is 18km away from the village of Imlil and can be reached by a dirt road but it is envisaged that the majority of guests will hike in/out of the valley although there are many possible variations. Imlil is 64km south of Marrakech and can be reached by car, bus or taxi (1½ hours).

rooms, food and facilities

3 Ensuite Bedrooms with spectacular views.
Underfloor heating (solar powered).
Spectacular terrace looking up to the snow capped 4000m high peaks of the Toubkal Massif.
Lounge with picture windows, wood burning stove, music etc

how this holiday makes a difference

We funded an Ambulance for the village and built an incinerator and instigated a rubbish clearance system. A 5% levy is made on the Kasbah income and handed to the village association. (Association Des Basins d'Imlil.) This is used to fund the running costs of the ambulance and if surpluses exist is used to build environmentally appropriate incinerators for the villages in the surrounding area. There is also a plan to build a village hammam (public wash house) if/when funds allow.

We instigated a rubbish clearance policy in 1997 for the region including the building of a communal incinerator. We have equipped the Kasbah with water filters to discourage the use of plastic bottled water. All supplies are purchased locally as much as possible and all staff are from the local region. As much as possible of the Kasbah purchases are from the local area this includes both consumables for the running of the establishment and the materials and labour used in the construction process. We have also sponsored a "Tourist Code of good practise".

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