Kasbah Du Toubkal

These words are also on the Kasbah's website, because this is the sort of business you are dealing with. The Kasbah du Toubkal does leave you speechless and in terms of responsible tourism storytelling, it has been cited as a case study the world over. Not only for its sensitive architecture and exemplary protection of cultural heritage, but also because of its total immersion in the local community. For example, the Kasbah team co-founded the Imlil Valley Association, and there is a five percent automatic levy on every tourist visit to the Kasbah that goes towards funding this. The Association manages everything from waste disposal, a community hammam and improved fresh water to an internet café. They also work at a higher level to ensure that the region is protected from inappropriate and insensitive tourism development, the likes of which has been seen throughout the Alps.

The views and the vibe are both winners at the Kasbah du Toubkal, no matter what your age or income group. But so is the Berber hospitality. You don’t feel as if you have ‘staff’ looking after you, but are treated like an honoured guest in their home. People do whatever they can to help you or advise you, and yet with no sense of hierarchy. It is more like a true Berber community. The manager is just as likely to help you if you need something at the table, as your waiter or waitress. So if elitism is your thing, then the Kasbah may not be. If a deep understanding of mountain life, Berber heritage and a warm, ‘open to all’ welcome is, then the Kasbah will definitely rock your world.