the best of morocco holidays for the independent traveller...

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A PLACE OF MAGIC AND MYTH, ROMANCE AND MEMORIES www.realmorocco.com THE BEST OF MOROCCO HOLIDAYS FOR THE INDEPENDENT TRAVELLER DESIGNED AND PRODUCED BY OLIVER & GRAIMES 01273 465411 WWW.OANDG.CO.UK 38 MARKET PLACE, CHIPPENHAM, WILTSHIRE SN15 3HT TEL: +44 (0)845 026 4588 FAX: +44 (0)845 026 4577 EMAIL: [email protected] 2640

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Page 1: THE BEST OF MOROCCO HOLIDAYS FOR THE INDEPENDENT TRAVELLER ...files.investis.com/tvz/brochures/best_of_morocco_brochure_2008.pdf · THE BEST OF MOROCCO HOLIDAYS FOR THE INDEPENDENT

A P L A C E O F M A G I C A N D M Y T H , R O M A N C E A N D M E M O R I E S

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DESIGNED AND PRODUCED BY OLIVER & GRAIMES 01273 465411 WWW.OANDG.CO.UK

38 MARKET PLACE, CHIPPENHAM,

WILTSHIRE SN15 3HT

TEL: +44 (0)845 026 4588

FAX: +44 (0)845 026 4577

EMAIL: [email protected]

2640

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Contents

P 01

Useful Information P2

Marrakech P8

Hotels of Marrakech P10

Riads & Maisons d’hotes P17

Fes P50

Midelt P59

Taroudant P60

Essaouira P64

Oualidia P70

Rabat and Casablanca P72

Massa P74

Sahara & the South P75

Ouarzazate P78

Zagora P80

Merzouga P81

Erfoud P83

Dunes & Camel Treks P84

Todra Gorge / Tineghir P85

Skoura P88

Dades Valley P89

Ouirgane P92

Imlil & Toubkal P96

Tafraout P97

High Atlas P98

Sahara Landrover Safari P101

Horse Riding & Trekking P102

Golf P104

Morocco a la carte P106

Sample Itineraries P107

Car Hire P108

General Information P110

Map of Morocco Inside back coverPhotos courtesy of Chris Lawrence

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THE BEST OF MOROCCO USEFUL INFORMATION

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BENI-MELLAL 462

CASABLANCA 511 225

EL JADIDA 444 308 90

ERFOUD 727 736 651 739

ESSAOUIRA 173 370 351 271 718

FES 756 289 289 379 435 640

IMOUZZER 61 523 561 481 788 210 812

MARRAKECH 273 194 236 197 553 176 483 329

MEKNES 746 349 231 319 402 582 60 807 476

OUALIDIA 368 384 166 76 776 195 455 405 223 395

OUARZAZATE 375 398 442 401 338 380 687 436 204 680 427

OUIRGANE 241 261 303 264 620 243 550 302 67 543 290 271

RABAT 602 249 91 181 575 442 198 652 321 138 257 528 388

TANGIER 896 592 370 462 669 721 303 931 611 267 538 809 678 281

TAROUDANT 85 547 467 529 692 258 727 146 225 699 453 290 156 546 981

TAFRAOUT 202 664 713 646 879 375 958 263 475 948 570 477 343 796 1215 187

TIZNIT 161 623 672 605 838 334 917 222 434 907 529 436 302 755 1174 146 107

TINEGHIR 544 567 609 570 146 856 849 605 373 849 596 169 440 694 730 459 646 605

ZAGORA 543 566 611 569 350 555 849 604 379 848 595 168 439 700 983 458 638 604 337

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AVERAGE TEMPERATUREAPPROXIMATE DISTANCES IN KMS

As we all know, global climate predictions have nowbecome fairly meaningless. Listed below are theaverage temperatures that have existed in the pastbut are no longer reliable and should only be usedas a guideline. Christmas and New Year over the pastfour or five years have enjoyed temperatures of 70 -75°F in Marrakech, but this does not mean that nextyear or the year after will be the same. Morocco is inthe northern hemisphere and therefore rain ‘should’fall between Dec - Mar, but the country has suffereddrought for five or six years so rain has fallen lessfrequently than normal. Whilst we would like to beable to make firmer predictions, this would beunwise and misleading to the traveller.For the map of Morocco - please see the inside back cover

P 3

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588USEFUL INFORMATION

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THE BEST OF MOROCCO BEST OF MOROCCO

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588BEST OF MOROCCO

Our first visit to Morocco was in1967 when we drove there in aFiat 500 to look at thepossibilities of organising skiingholidays in the High Atlas andLand Rover safaris in the Sahara.Ever since that time, We havebeen enchanted by thiswonderful country, its people andits enormous variety. Our staffmake regular visits and arealways looking for newdestinations and activities. We have always been innovativeand adventurous with our holidayprogramme and our attention todetail has earned us an enviableand unequalled reputation. This brochure features a numberof new and very charming smallgem-like hotels that you will notfind elsewhere. We are verypassionate about Morocco andtry to urge potential visitors toshare and enjoy our sense ofadventure and creativity.

When we first started arrangingholidays, most of our clients weretravelling to Morocco for the firsttime and it became a destinationthat people visited perhaps onceevery 4 or 5 years. We are nowpleased to say that it is notuncommon for many of ourclients to visit Morocco every yearand in some cases twice a year.

We are proud to say that we areconsidered to be the leadingspecialist tour operator toMorocco. We are contacted bytravellers, journalists, magazines,TV and film producers and touroperators for our specialisedknowledge from the USA,Australia and various European countries.

Needless to say, We have anoutstanding staff, who are alwayswilling and happy to discuss yourpersonal requirements. We hope that you will find thisbrochure interesting andinformative and that we will havethe pleasure of arranging yourholiday to Morocco.

Let us show you the realMorocco... un voyaged’exception.

Our first visit to Morocco was in 1967 when we drove there in a Fiat 500 to look at the possibilities of organising skiingholidays in the High Atlas and Land Rover safaris in theSahara. Ever since that time, we have been enchanted by this wonderful country, its people and its enormous variety.Our staff make regular visits and are always looking for newdestinations and activities.

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOMOROCCO

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588MOROCCO

Morocco brims over with contrast,colour and mystery and all youcan do is simply catch your breathin wonder. It has a timeless qualitythat no longer exists in themodern world, a sense that thepast with all its glory and savagerystill lives on, threading in and outof the present, informing with itsevery word and gesture. On arrivalyou are plunged into a culture, a religion and a lifestyle utterlyunlike anything that you have everexperienced before; a mysterytour of a land of endless surprises, enchantment andenduring fascination.

The first reaction of most visitorsto the cataclysm of newimpressions is to draw a long,deep breath and sigh; the odoursof mint and blossom coalescing

with the acrid smell of the tanners’yard, the unearthly wail of theMuezzin and muleteers’ “balek!balek!”, the subtle intricacies of anart that had reached its apogeeand a daily rhythm that seemsbarely to have changed since thecoming of Islam.

For some, it begins with a glimpseof the cloud-veiled Rif, the first ofthree giant ranges that slicesideways and culminate in theHigh Atlas, a wonderfullyimpressive barricade of snow-cladpeaks that tower above a mysticcity, dark ravines and hiddenvalleys. Beyond the oases ofextraordinary fertility, planted withpomegranate and palm and theonly barrier against the advancesof the sterile desert. Here the air isluminous, the silence almost

deafening and one understandsinstinctively the burning desire forpurity that has fuelled everyMoroccan dynasty.

The Almohads, Merinids andAlmoravids came from the dunesbut their genius erupted furthernorth in a spectacular flourishing of mosques, minarets and palacesthat is everyone’s vision of life in theOrient. The monuments of Fes andMarrakech defy heaven in theirown opulence but, at the heart ofeven the most sumptuous, there isthe modest, desert dream of a lifeof quiet contemplation passedamid ripening fruit and the gurgling of fountains.

For some, the country’s mainappeal lies in the quality of itsbeaches. Morocco has always

been a crossroads, the placewhere the East collides with theWest and Africa shakes handswith Europe across the narrowstraits of Gibraltar. It also marksthe fusion of the Mediterraneanwith the Atlantic and this gives Morocco two strikinglydifferent coasts.

You may like to combine a fewdays on one of the beachestogether with exploring thekasbahs and oases of the pre-Sahara where the only wavesare those shaped by the recedingdunes. You could disappear intothe medieval world of Morocco’sancient cities and souks or goskiing in Oukaimeden or trekkingon foot or on horseback in thehigh Atlas or play golf on some ofthe finest courses in the world.

Moroccans are friendly, polite,competitive and intensely curiousabout the outside world. Islam is a thriving faith but Morocco’sversion is also extremelymoderate, open-minded andtolerant. You can go a long wayinto the heart of their culture justby feeling independent enough toaccept their hospitality, whichpours forth from rich and pooralike whether in the city or in thecountryside. Such gestures offriendship are what transform a good holiday into a greatexperience, for then you are nolonger just visiting but really living.

Our staff know and have visited allthe places and hotels featured inthis brochure and we are probablythe best qualified and mostconversant team to help you

select the most suitable itinerary tomatch your personal interests andrequirements. Most other holidaycompanies deal in the “masses” -we deal in individuals.

Morocco is an exciting country.We have no need to make idlepromises and exaggerations. It is all there for you to experience,but we will help you create anitinerary that involves as littleinconvenience as possible andsteer you away from the placesthat may be of little or no interest to you.

The popular, but wholly erroneouspicture of Morocco is of a hot sand pitwhich starts at the overcrowdedbeaches of Agadir and extends to thedunes of the Sahara Desert. A truer andmore accurate picture would include adescription of the Northern half ofMorocco, which is made up of vastexpanses of fertile agricultural lands,forests, productive vineyards and lush,green grazing meadows. Other surprisesinclude outstanding snow-skiing nearMarrakech; superb golf courses and asummer climate that is similar to mostMediterranean resorts.

P 6

Most other holiday companies deal in the “masses” - we deal in individuals

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588MARRAKECH

You can sense the atavismcatapulting every trick and turn inthe Djemaa el Fna, Marrakech’sthrobbing main square and one ofthe worlds great theatres. The Djemaa is a spectacularextravaganza of singers, tumblers,sorcerers, herbalists, raconteurs,impostors, preachers and snakecharmers, all competing for youreye. There is nowhere else inAfrica which so effortlesslyembraces you, blows aside travelcynicism and keeps you returning.If you get weary, observe thephenomenon from one of theoverlooking rooftop cafes.

There is also a modern Marrakechof luxury hotels, streets withrestless mopeds and guides, butthey all seem to co-exist with thepast. It is a Berber rather thanArab city; the traditional metropolisof Atlas tribes, Mahgrebis from theplains, Saharan nomads andslaves from beyond the desert. It was founded around 1062 byYoussef bin Tachfine of theAlmoravide dynasty, but it was hisson Ali Ben Youssef who broughtarchitects and artisans fromCordoba to build palaces, bathsand Mosques, a subterraneanwater system and in 1126 the firstorbit of walls were raised from“tabia” - the red mud of the plains.

Marrakech’s setting is trulyentrancing. A patchwork ofexquisite green against the bare,brown plain of Haouz with thesnowy High Atlas rearing upbehind like an apocalyptic tidalwave towering through the haze.

The focus of every approach tothe city is the Koutoubia Mosque,Marrakech’s crowningcentrepiece, the 203 feet hightower, the very synthesis ofMoslem architecture. Other sights to visit are the Saadiantombs dating from 1557, over-lavish maybe, but sensational nevertheless.

The Mellah, once the largestJewish quarter in Morocco; theAgdal, Majorelle (Yves St.LaurentGardens) and Menara Gardens,located near the edge of theMedina where it is both cool andvery still and in perfect contrast tothe bustling city streets; the Bahiaand dar Si-Said, the latter housinga museum of Moroccan arts.

By far the best way to visit thesesights is to engage one of the 300horse-drawn carriages (caleches).They will take you in comfort andstyle. But to see the marvels ofMarrakech’s Medina - all twosquare miles of it - you must goon foot. It is in the hurlyburly of theMedina where you will find thetreasures of Marrakechi art. Eachcraft in the Medina has its ownspecial quarter in one of theinterminable passages thatsprawls like some vast livingorganism, teeming with activity.There are two or three mainthoroughfares in the Medina, offwhich branch most of theindividual markets with alleys andsquares devoted to specificcrafts where one can watch partof the production process indyeing, brass and copper beating,

apothecary stalls, cosmetics,herbs, jewellers, leather workers,carpenters, sieve-makers,perfumes, spices and slipper makers.

The High Atlas, a mere 30 kmsouth of Marrakech and thegreatest mountain range in Africa,is undoubtedly the most beautifuland compelling part of this diverseland. It has sustained aremoteness which until recentdecades was essentiallycomplete. Staying a few days inMarrakech you are bound to hearabout the Ourika, a long andbeautiful valley where “locals”breeze out on their mopeds in thesummer to escape the city heat tolie beside the streams andwaterfalls, just an hours drive fromyour hotel. Oukaimeden, the mainski resort in the Atlas (3,272mhigh) has good piste and off-pisteskiing between the months ofDecember and March. Marrakechholds the same fascination as thesea, constantly changing andtirelessly the same, and once youhave witnessed it, you’re sure tobe back for more.

Medina.Each stone is a bookAs old as fablesEach street is a storyAs intricate as nightEach house is a novelWith pages gnawed by rats.

Marrakech is a city in the grip of a delirious imagination. A feverish dreamscape of honeycombed alleys and minaretsquivering in the moonlight and haunted by the restlesscreatures of a visionary carnival that has lasted for athousand years and shows no sign of stopping now.Marrakech is one of the world’s enchanted places wheretime becomes suspended and, through its open door, youcatch a glimpse of the past so rich and so remote and yet so palpable.

The Djemaa is a spectacularextravaganza of singers, tumblers,sorcerers, herbalists, raconteurs,impostors, preachers and snakecharmers, all competing for your eye.

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

This has become one of the mostsought after “hotels de charme”in Marrakech and is featured incountless coffee-table books andconstantly receives outstandingreviews in newspapers andmagazines throughout Europeand North America. The essenceof the place combines simplewith chic, intimacy with space,warmth with cool.

Only fifteen minutes from of thecity centre, one can dip in andout of the action of Marrakech asone pleases (the complimentaryhotel minibus shuttles guests inand out three times a day).Situated on an escarpmentoverlooking the River Tensifttowards the Palmeraie, the hotel’ssilhouette stands against thewhite-tipped peaks of the High Atlas Mountains.

Caravanserai, a Persian word,describes a resting place ontrading routes where in yearsgone by merchants would stop towater camels, wash, eat andsleep, before going into the citiesto sell their wares. With thiscontext in mind, a small hotelwith just seventeen rooms andsuites was created. Traditionalethnic roots are retained with

Caravanserai

pisé walls, arches and domes,numerous terraces andcourtyards, ceilings ofeucalyptus and palm beams andoriginal old wooden doors andwindows, all reinterpreted with a21st Century sense of style.

Rooms surround a series ofinterconnected courtyards.Windows look inwards. Roofterraces jostle for the view. It isserene, a mule’s bray muted bythe thick, pink pise walls. It isalso rustic, without compromisingcomfort, featuring polished, paleochre ‘tadlakt’ (polished plaster)floors, high walls and wrap-around cream cottonbanquettes and bolsters.

Each room and suite is unique. The terracotta tones are coolingand calming,and bathrooms haveimpressive vaulted domes. TheMajorelle and Pool Suites havetheir own private courtyards andheated pools - the ultimate inromantic (but do book in advanceas these are always the first to go).

The large central swimming pool,approached through an imposingarchway, is one of the moststriking architectural arrangementsof any Moroccan hotel. There is

We left Caravanserai with heavy heart.We mourned the beauty, sophisticationsimplicity and general sexiness of theCaravanserai horribly ...nothing couldmatch Caravanserai’s Hammamanywhere in the World...

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588MARRAKECH

an exceptionally beautifulhammam with domes andcolumns, as well as massage anda treatment room. There is notelevision or similar distraction -this is a place to talk, read, gaze,snooze. There is a charmingrestaurant that leads through to asnug and stylish bar whereoccasional live Gnaoua music isplayed in the evenings. Buffetlunch around the pool or in thecolourful garden is delightful -“dejeuner sur l’herbe”. Staff glidearound the hotel, alwaysgenuinely pleased to welcomeyou to the hotel that they areproud of. Their conviviality isalways respectful, never familiar.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

The Sunday Times Travel Magazine,editors' awards. Judged by distinguishedtravel journalists in search of the world'sbest hotels for outstanding style, valueand service. Caravanserai was nominatedfor the “style” award in November 2003.

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588MARRAKECH

Located in the heart of thePalmeraie area, fifteen minutesdrive from Marrakech, Les DeuxTours is about a mile down adusty track. It is in an almost-biblical setting - a seeminglyendless expanse of palm treesdotted with little clusters of sheepand small hamlets.

The hotel takes the form of aseries of villas set in a lush andfragrant walled garden, with twotowers that overlook the originalentrance. There are twenty-fourstandard and deluxe rooms.Some have fireplaces and severalhave impressive domedbathrooms; all have bath orshower, air-conditioning andtelephone (and, laudably, no TV).There are also five luxurioussuites, each of which has a smallheated pool, garden, sittingroom, bedroom, fireplace anddressing room.

Les Deux Tours

No two rooms or suites are thesame, although all share thesame sublime use of zelige(mosaic) for the floors, tadlakt (acool, marble-like surface) for thewalls, and Tataoui (Oleanderwood) for many of the ceilings.The architect responsible for LesDeux Tours is the renownedCharles Boccara, whoseexquisite taste, style and charmflood the place, and hisinspiration with its mixture ofMoorish, Egyptian and Turkisharchitecture is quite apparent.

There is a lovely heated swimmingpool in a grassy garden setting,and a superb hammam withmassage and beauty treatmentsavailable. Meals are served in thedining room, and breakfast canbe taken in your room/suite.There are 3 salons and a bar inthe new main-building. Transportinto town is by taxi ordered at reception. A courtesy bus isplanned for 2006.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

The architect responsible for Les DeuxTours is the renowned Charles Boccara,whose exquisite taste, style and charmflood the place, and his inspiration withits mixture of Moorish, Egyptian andTurkish architecture is quite apparent.

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

This is the ultimate rural retreat.Tigmi is a magical, understatedplace - somewhere to listen tosilence, with little to interrupt you save for the occasional hollerof a shepherd or the braying of a donkey.

The setting is biblical. Tigmi isperched on the brow of a mud-walled Berber hamletcalled Tagadert in the Haouz plain,just 15 miles south of Marrakechin the low, rolling foothills of theAtlas Mountains. Converted from a labyrinthine string of villagedwellings, and remaining totally inkeeping in appearance with therest of the village, Tigmi has eight suites built around six separate courtyards.

The interiors are meaningfullyrestrained: organic, white curvedwalls; eucalyptus ceilings; colourfulcushioned banquettes; a splash ofsaffron, fuchsia or Buddhistorange. Walkways are open to theskies. Bedrooms and sittingrooms are all rustically cosy andcomfortable. Several suites havefire-places which are lit on chillyevenings, and one suite with twobedrooms and a sitting room, hasits own plunge pool.

Tigmi

This intimate little hotel feels morelike a private house run by anexceptionally efficient and friendlystaff. There is food when you wantit, and indeed where you want it –on a terrace, in your suiteperhaps, or lazing in the gardenthat is seductively candle-lit bynight. One could spend hoursfloating in the large heated pool,soaking up the sun and thestunning views of the surroundinglandscape with the snow-cappedHigh Atlas Mountains just over thefields. Pure bliss.

At Tigmi, life is rich in its simplicity.There is a hammam with massageand gommage treatments onrequest, and a television roomwith DVD library for those whosimply cannot do without. Nearbythere is a turreted kasbah to visit,and of course the pink-walled cityof Marrakech and all itsenchantments not far beyond.Lake Lalatakerkoust is about 15minutes drive away, where youcan jet-ski on the lake. Quad bikesare also available near by toexplore the spectacular mountaincountryside. Atlas Cheval ridingstables will collect you from Tigmiand take you on half or full-daytreks across the plain or into the

foothills. Tigmi is a spiritual haven.One comes here to shake off theweight and grime of everyday life,and to get back a sense of whatis important.

Over the past three years, Tigmihas been featured in dozens ofglossy magazines, newspaperarticles and coffee-table booksabout style, comfort, space andvolume, the unusual and theextraordinary. It’s warmth isinfectious and like many others,you may well want to return againand again.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

“I have travelled through Morocco for 25 years andcan assure you that Tigmi has achieved somethingvery exceptional. Many thanks for the hospitality,the order, the calm and discreet Magic”Barnaby Rogerson, author of The Cadogan Guide to Morocco

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588MARRAKECH

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What is a Riad?A riad is an urban dwelling in themedina (old city). Moroccanarchitecture is more inward lookingand given to isolation and intimacyrather than showing off. It is, aboveall, an enclosure, a place ofcontemplation and escape for itscloistered inhabitants, an engaginginterior away from the outsideworld. A mysterious enchantmentawaits the guest who is invited tocross the threshold.

The typical home is organisedaround a central courtyard, oftendecorated with zelige (mosaic),zouak (painted wood), gibs(sculptured plaster) and generallywith a fountain and orange orlemon trees giving a profusion ofscents and the rippling of runningwater. The courtyard is usuallysurrounded by an archedcolonnade giving access to theliving rooms and kitchen. The sleeping areas are constructedon the upper floors, thus creating acovered arcade around the patiowith balustrades running aroundeach storey. The roof terrace mayhave an awning to protect againstthe sun where guests will havebreakfast or dinner. Riads havethick walls thus protecting theinhabitants from the sun or thecold and most of the outside noise.

Being urban dwellings, they areoften situated along a narrowalleyway (derb) with no access by car. For those seeking anauthentic Moroccan style ofaccommodation, the riad offersits guests a haven of tranquility,an architectural treasure, aninsight into tradition, culture and craftsmanship and anopportunity to melt into ananonymous location.

Riads and Maisons d’hôtes

However, almost all riads are withinearshot of a Mosque and the fivetimes a day calls to prayercommencing at sunrise.

What is a Maison d’hôtes?Quite simply, this means a guesthouse. Usually these are privatehouses that have been convertedinto small and very charminghotels. As you will see, they varyfrom riad-style to converted villas,and more recently theCaravanserai and Tigmi set in ruralvillages just outside Marrakech andhave been converted in remarkable style from existingmud-walled houses.

“The first thing one shouldown is a home; and it is thelast thing one should sell; for a home is ones tomb this sideof heaven”(Moroccan proverb)

Enjoy the harmony of Dar Zemorawhere lanterns abound and lightis filtered and reflected againstsurfaces of tadlakt and bejmat,the traditional rich materials of Morocco.

Located in the ancient palmgrove of Marrakech, yet onlythree miles from the city’s mainsquare, this is a tranquil oasis.The stunning swimming pool(which is heated in the coolermonths) is set in three acres ofcolourful gardens, and the villaincorporates old andcontemporary design.

The ‘Perla’ suite has a four-posterbed, sitting area with fireplace,separate dressing room andbathroom, as well as a largeprivate and curtained roof

Dar Zemora

terrace. The ‘Zahara’ suite has a four-poster bed, hall, sittingroom with fireplace, andbathroom with separate showerand dressing area. It has a private terrace and opens tothe garden.

There are three elegant roomsoverlooking the gardens. All suites and rooms haveindividually controlled air-conditioning, marblebathrooms, bath robes, CDplayer, phone and safe. Breakfastcan be served in your room, onthe terrace or in the gardens, andlunch or dinner can be preparedwith advance notice.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588RIADS AND MAISONS D’HÔTES

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The former residence of a judge, Villa des Orangers was acquiredand converted into luxuriousboutique accommodation by aFrench husband and wife teamwith an already establishedsuccessful hotel business inParis. The style is Moorish palatialand it has 19 rooms and suitesarranged on two levels around apair of beautiful courtyards - oneof them filled with the eponymousorange trees, the other lavishlydecorated with lacy carvedplasterwork. All rooms have a bath and shower, mini-bar,safe, satellite TV and phone; six suites and two rooms haveprivate sun terraces. Threemaster suites have a balconyoverlooking the pool and garden.All guests have access to theroof with its plunge pool andmatchless views of the nearbyKoutoubia Mosque and its

Villa des Orangers

landmark minaret. The location isgood - just a few minutes walkfrom Jemaa El Fna, the old city’scentral square. The Villa desOrangers also boasts a finerestaurant serving Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine, amassage centre and facilities forlate check-outs. The service andattention to detail is outstanding.

Only children over 12 are accepted.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

A small and exquisite riaddesigned, owned and managedby the very talented Frencharchitect, Christian Ferre. There are eight charming roomsarranged around a centralcourtyard filled with orange,lemon and pomegranate treesand a gurgling fountain. All therooms are very different fromeach other (all air-conditionedwith bath or shower) and RoomNo.3 has its own private and verypretty terrace.

Riad Kaiss is located in anattractive, high-walled, narrowderb (alley) in the southern part ofthe old city and only a short walkfrom the Jemaa El Fna Square,the Bahia and El Badii Palaces,the Mellah (old Jewish Quarter)and the Saadien Tombs.

The decor is traditional Moroccanwith earthy ochre walls, vibrantpaintwork, jade zelige tiling and

Riad Kaiss

stylish furniture. The colours usedare very cheering and fresh.Guests are greeted by red rosepetals sprinkled on their whitelinen pillows. Breakfast is servedin your room, on the roof terrace or around the main courtyard - as you prefer. Dinner can beprepared at the riad on request (traditional Moroccan or international).

There is a cool plunge pool onthe roof and a small but well-equipped fitness room. There isalso a hammam for relaxingafterwards, as well as twocomfortable salons each withopen fireplaces.

The atmosphere is relaxed: staffare on hand but discreet andvisitors are made to feel likeguests rather than customers.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

The atmosphere is relaxed: staffare on hand but discreet andvisitors are made to feel likeguests rather than customers.

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A delightful, elegant and authenticriad with eight charming roomslocated in one of the more quietand accessible parts of themedina which has been restoredand beautifully decorated by itsFrench owner Jocelyne Despin(also known as “Madam Blue Eyes”).

The quality of decoration andfurnishings confirms one’s firstimpressions of the house, wherearches and galleries are mirroredin the waters of the superb poolin the centre of the centralcourtyard. Rooms are all

Les Yeux Bleus

air-conditioned and open ontoone of two serene courtyards.There is a roof-terrace withcomfortable seating andpanoramic views of the old cityand its skyline. There are twositting rooms, a dining room anda small hammam, offering a“gommage” or regeneratingmassage with argan or essential oils.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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“My wife and I have just gotback from our honeymoon inMorocco. We would just like tothank you for arranging thebest holiday we have ever had.We stayed at Riad Les YeuxBleus. The accommodationwas second to none, a paradisewithin the medina. MadamBlue Eyes was so hospitable tous as were the rest of her staff.The Riad was just beautifuland we were made to feel likea king and queen.”(May/03)

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Cigognes is French for storks,and at sundown each evening thegreat birds can be seen wheelingin the skies above the city. They also nest atop the walls ofthe ruined 16th Century BadiPalace, in the shadow of which isthis charming boutique hotel.Originally a wealthy merchant’shome, it dates in part back to the17th Century. It has beenbeautifully and sensitively restoredwith walls of white and mutedtones that serve to highlight thefine carved dark wood detailsaround the central courtyard. This jewel of a boutique hotel wasdesigned by Charles Boccara andsits on the edge of the “mellah”the old Jewish quarter within themedina, a short walk to theDjenna El Fnaa.

There are eleven air-conditionedrooms in total, including superior,deluxe and suite rooms, alldrawing on the rich culturalheritage of Moorish art anddecoration with particularly finedelicate carved plasterwork. On the ground floor are a diningroom and small library stockedwith books on Morocco in a variety of languages, and thereis a rooftop garden terrace withviews across the old city. There is also a spa, Hammamand boutique and the hotel offerscookery classes and picnics(payable locally).

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

Dar Les Cigognes

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This property, once a residenceof the former Pasha ofMarrakech, has been refurbishedto an extremely high standardwith painstaking respect for theAndalusian style and enormousattention to comfort details. The main courtyard has anAndalusian-style swimming pool,thirteen metres long, cuttingthrough it, a huge bougainvilleaand two cypress trees soaring tothe sky, all distracting you fromthe fact that you’re actually in theheart of the medina.

There are five double rooms andone french double, all with en-suitebathroom, air-conditioning,satellite television and telephone.Each room is individually andbeautifully decorated. Downstairs,there is a large music-receptionroom with an art deco Pleyelgrand piano and a hi-fi system, a fireplace and comfortablechairs, for cozy evenings ofreading and relaxing.

There are two dining rooms - onewith a long parade table in cedarwith twelve places, and the otherMoroccan-style with the typicalsofas, cushions, carpets, smalloriental tables and chairs. The resident Chef will prepare

Riad Al Moussika

Moroccan, French and Italiandishes on request.

The various loggias havearmchairs and tea tables, andthere is also a library with bookspredominantly on Moroccan artand history. The riad has twoterraces, partially sheltered bywooden pergolas, where guestscan have breakfast and candle-lit dinner, or sunbathe on cushioned armchairs and teak chaises-long. One of the terraces has a pavilion withMoroccan sofas, cushions andlamps, should guests prefer a more intimate space. There is a hammam with massage on request.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588MARRAKECH

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La Sultana Marrakech

This beautiful 5 star boutiquehotel is a member of “SmallLuxury Hotels”. Hidden in theheart of the Medina andcomprised of four courtyards it isa sophisticated establishmentwhere no detail has beenoverlooked, and yet an intimateambience has been achieved.There are 21 air-conditionedrooms and suites, all individuallydecorated with en-suite marblebathrooms with bath and shower,satellite TV, DVD and CD player,phone, internet access, mini-bar,safe and fireplace. There is a heated pool and variouspanoramic terraces with strikingviews. Talented French andMoroccan chefs prepare refinedmeals in the dining room, andthere is 24-hour room service

available. The lounge bar is ratherunusual in that it has a view intothe pool, and other facilitiesinclude a library and a shop.

The hotel has built an enviablereputation of care and comfortoffering spa treatments such ashammam, sauna, vichy douche,balneotherapy bath, indoorjacuzzi, indoor and outdoormassage rooms.

La Sultana is not a suitable hotelfor children.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

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Originally a restaurant run by twoFrench grand dames, whosepatrons included the likes ofWinston Churchill and QueenIngrid of Denmark, La MaisonArabe is now owned by Italianprince Fabrizio Ruspoli who hashad the property readapted as asuitably regal riad. The style isMoroccan classic, evoking theera of travel with steamer trunksand letters of introduction topashas. The 18 air-conditionedrooms and suites are supremelycomfortable, most with their ownprivate terraces, some withfireplaces. The Moroccan cuisineat the house restaurant is highlyregarded and there is anattractive, modestly-sizedhammam, plus a pretty foliatedcourtyard and a small library.

La Maison Arabe

The hotel has its own countryclub in a garden setting a 20-minute drive away on theoutskirts of town (serviced by free hourly shuttles) with a largeswimming pool, beside which lunch is served, and acookery school offering half andfull day courses.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

Situated in the heart of theMedina near Bab Doukala, thisdelightful Riad offers its guests a warm welcome. Originally builtin the 30s’ and discerningly andartistically restored in 1997 byDidier Vicaire with appreciableattention to Moroccanarchitecture and furnishings.

Made up from two adjoining andinterconnecting riads, the originalDelacroix wing and the newlycompleted Matisse wing eachhas four air-conditioned rooms,and the Delacroix wing also hasone suite. The reception, loungeareas and dining rooms surroundthe central courtyards which havebeen restored in traditional zelige(mosaic) and tadlakt(plasterwork), carved wood andother Arabesque materials. Thechef prepares a typical Moroccanbreakfast and can also serve a superb dinner with a few hoursadvance notice. Non-alcoholicdrinks are complimentary.

Riad Moucharabieh

The four rooms in the Matissewing have CD players andfireplaces and there is a smallheated pool. The Delacroix wingalso has a jacuzzi. Roof terraceswith parasols and sun loungersafford guests plenty of space for relaxation.

Ideal for those seeking anauthentic Moroccan Riad in a very central location. Childrenunder 12 are not accepted.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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THE BEST OF MOROCCO CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588

Medina.Each stone is a bookAs old as fablesEach street is a storyAs intricate as nightEach house is a novelWith pages gnawed by rats.

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This is a stunning riad, situatedabout 20 minutes walk from themain square. After the heat andhubbub of the souks, here is a serene haven where authenticityand refinement meet.

There are eight rooms and foursuites, all beautifully andimaginatively decorated, and allnamed after famous explorers.Each spacious room/suite hasair-conditioning, satellite TV,telephone, mini-bar, safe andbath/shower.

Villa Nomade has a small heatedpool, a traditional Orientalhammam (steam room) with fullmassage and beauty treatments,and a restaurant serving a varietyof à la carte Moroccan dishes.There is also a roof terrace withsun-loungers, two courtyardssurrounded by columns, a sittingroom and a number of patiosand cosy niches.

The receptionist at Villa Nomadewill be pleased to call taxis foryou, arrange excursions andmake restaurant reservations.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

Villa Nomade

This delightful and colourful littleriad is the ideal hideout forromantics, or the perfect base fora family or a house party -anyone who wants to enjoy theirown private space. Riad Souikais only 15 minutes walk from themain square and the souks (markets).

The house has three charmingdouble bedrooms, each with en-suite bathroom. There is a large sun terrace protected byhigh walls, as well as a roofterrace where guests cansunbathe and relax during theday, and have candle-lit dinnersat night. The sitting room has TVand a fireplace and there is a small dining room.

Riad Souika

The property is tastefullydecorated with traditionalMoroccan furnishings and iseminently stylish. There is a full-time Moroccan housemanwho cleans and preparesbreakfast each day, serves teaand cold drinks on the roofterrace and, if requested, canprepare appetising lunches anddinners. The houseman is also on hand to carry out errands andhelp with child minding. This riadis available as a whole or roomby room.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

This riad offers its guests theamenities of modern life as wellas the charm of traditionalMoroccan ornamentation. Wellestablished and professionallymanaged, Riad Noga is burieddeep in the Medina, only tenminutes walk from the Djemaa ElFna Square.

Behind salmon-pink walls is a bougainvillaea and orange tree-filled courtyard serving as anantechamber to an inner, moreprivate courtyard built around a green-tiled solar-heatedswimming pool.

In the main house, with itssoothing tones, there are twobedrooms, a dining room withvaulted ceiling, and sitting room.

Riad Noga

The newer, adjoining guest wing,which is more colourful in design,has a dining room with fireplacefor chillier evenings, and fivebedrooms. All rooms are en-suiteand air-conditioned, and all havea CD player and big, soft beds.Satellite TV, telephone andinternet portal are provided in thefirst floor rooms.

The riad is very spacious but alsointimate. There are three privateroof terraces for sunbathing (one with cedarwood pavilion).The chef will prepare eitherMoroccan cuisine or internationaldishes on request.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

This riad offers its guests theamenities of modern life as well as the charm of traditional Moroccan ornamentation.

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588MARRAKECH

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The former palace of a crownprince of Morocco, converted bythe French administration into ahotel in 1923, La Mamounia hasbeen feted and famed almostsince the day it opened. Duringthat romantic era of early travel, it was not just an hotel but a wayof life, where a small exclusivecommunity of ex-pats, colonialrulers and adventurers wouldlazily sip Scotch in the hotel’swell-watered gardens. In post-waryears it was a favourite haunt ofWinston Churchill who paintedfrom his balcony, which hedeclared the ‘loveliest spot onearth’. The numerous refits overthe hotel’s splendid history havenot robbed it of its charm and itstill retains gorgeous perioddetailing and fittings and isundeniably glamorous. There are171 rooms and 57 suites, severalof which are themed (the 19thCentury suite, the Orient Expresssuite, the Churchill suite).

Attentive service and facilities areexcellent: five restaurants, fourbars (including the truly stunningPiano Bar), a nightclub andcasino, a business centre andshops. There is also a swimmingpool with palm tree islandsurrounded by the most beautiful and extensive floral gardens.

Sports and leisure facilitiesinclude two tennis courts, an air-conditioned squash court, fully equipped gym, a superb tenacre gold driving range, beautycentre with hammam, sauna,massage, beauty and hair salon.Three championship golf coursesand riding stables are a short taxi ride away.

At the time of going to print (2006) the hotel is subject to a majorrefurbishment - please see our website www.realmorocco.com forcurrent photos.

THE BEST OF MOROCCOMARRAKECH

During that romantic era ofearly travel, it was not just anhotel but a way of life,

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La Mamounia5-STAR DELUXE

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The Amanjena brings theAmanresort’s particular conceptof high expense luxury to NorthAfrica. What guests get for theirmoney is a gated complex somefive miles south of the town, wellaway from the masses (andsecure from the paparazzi) witharchitecture that is low-risepalatial, rose pink and frilly,trimmed with green tiled roofs.

At the heart of the resort is thebassin, a massive fish-filledreservoir of water that feeds twoshallow canals running betweenthe 34 pavilions’ and six maisons.These are all vast and lavishprivate residences, with themaisons distinguished by an

Amanjena

upstairs master bedroom andtheir own walled gardens. All accommodations are filledwith every conceivable luxury: airconditioning, CD player, heating,mini-bar, safe, telephone, cableTV. There’s complimentary wineand chocolates on arrival and 24-hour room service. Three of themaisons come with a butler.Hotel services range from spasand facials to a library (books,CDS and DVDs), and the loan ofclubs for use on the 18-holeAmelkis golf course next door.There’s a Moroccan restaurantgraced with 80 onyx columnsand an international restaurantwith an exceptionally talentedThai chef.

5-STAR DELUXE

The Amanjena brings the Amanresort’s particular concept of high expense luxury to North Africa

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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Probably the best 4-star hotel inMarrakech and certainly offeringexcellent value. It is a 130-roomhotel that was greeted withdelight when it opened in 1986for its tongue-in-cheek take oftraditional Moroccan architecture.The high atrium reception area islovely, while the decor in the tworestaurants (stunning palm treecolumns in the international oneand blue and yellow stripedcolumns in the Moroccan) isstriking. There is a gorgeous barin deep red with a beaten-copperceiling, and the hotel also boastsone of the best pools in town, setin a well tended garden withlawns and a terrace where a buffet lunch and dinner areserved (weather permitting).

Rooms are air-conditioned andhave a mini-bar, safety depositbox, telephone and satellite TV,and there is 24-hour roomservice. Although it is located onthe northern edge of town, ittakes no more than 10 minutesto get into the Medina (old city)by taxi.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

The high atrium reception area islovely, while the decor in the tworestaurants (stunning palm treecolumns in the international one and blue and yellow striped columns in the Moroccan) is striking

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Tichka4-STAR

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Le Meridien

Le Meridien occupies acommanding position within a 5.5 hectare plot in the areaknown as "Hivernage", thislocation is home to several biginternational standard hotels ofwhich Le Meridien is one of thebetter known and respected. The hotel from various vantagepoints has excellent views over tothe Atlas mountains. On a clearday, the snow capped mountainsform an impressive backdrop.

The Meridien boasts animpressively large swimmingpool, with attendant bars andrestaurants and fitness facilities.This hotel delivers what youwould expect from aninternational branded hotel -Satellite TV in the bedrooms,

climate control, 24hr. roomservice, hair dryer, mini-bar and a choice of two restaurants and a snack bar.

Le Meridien is well positioned foraccess to both the Medina andthe airport (4kms) with easyaccess to several golf courses.What the hotel lacks in terms ofMoroccan traditional intimacy, it makes up for in convenience,location and internationalstandard of facilities.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOFES

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This is the underworld of Fes.This is where time chose to stopand rest about two hundredyears ago, and never quite gotgoing again. Entering the medinais like taking a huge breath andgoing underwater, to experiencetotal bombardment of yoursenses – to feel life in its mostfrenetic form. It is quite literallyalmost stomach-churning in itsexcitement, as sheep’s headsand goats’ balls flash past you,and as the excruciating stench ofpigeon poo and sulphuric acidhits your nostrils from thetanneries. Almost ten thousandalley-ways form this walled rabbit

warren, so you will need to keepcoming up for air.

While Fes el-Bali (Old Fes) isindubitably the core fascination of this Imperial City, a quick tripuphill to the Merenid tombs isworth it for the stunning viewback across the biblical bowl that is Fes. Also worth visiting are the Royal Palace and theMellah (Jewish quarter) in Fes el-Jdid (New Fes). The villenouvelle, constructed by theFrench in 1916, impresses withits broad, tree-lined boulevards,and more conventional-stylerestaurants and shops than can

be found in the medina. Furtherafield, the Imperial City of Meknes and the Roman ruins of Volubilis, both only about anhour’s drive from Fes, are worthdedicating a day to.

Fes is a city that one cannot failto be passionate about. The addictive essence of thepounding medina drips into one’sveins like a drug that foreverleaves you with a thirst to feelmore, to dig deeper. A single visitcan never be enough. This isMorocco’s religious capital, itscultural capital and its culinarycapital (breakfasts that you’ll

never forget), and its frenziedpace and enormity provide aninteresting contrast to the laid-back village, by comparison,which is Marrakech.

Additional sites to visit:Borj Nord and Borj Sud (16th century watch towers)The Jewish Cemetery Bab Boujloud Boujloud GardensMusee des Arts et TraditionsBou Inania MedersaFundouk NejjarineAttarine Medersa (14th century)Karaouine Mosque (9th century)

Caught on a relentless wave, you are carried through slithersof alley-ways, dodging donkeys and ducking under enormousbaskets of mint as they are carried by on bobbing heads.Either side of your wake, tiny stalls brim over with their wares– cloth, slippers, pottery, leather, brass. Children weave theirway deftly through the legs of their elders; old men with theirpeaked hoods shadowing their leathery, bearded faces crouchin corners carving bits of wood; and women, shrouded andswathed from head to toe save for their piercing black eyes,hold hands and shuffle through the swarm.

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This maison d’hotes possessesall the charm, intimacy andrefinement of its sister hotel, La Maison Bleue. Perched on ahill overlooking the medina. One of the Riad’s particularlyappealing features is a delightfullittle swimming pool (not heated).Welcome revival after a day ofsight-seeing and hot haggling inthe souks. Today, Riad MaisonBleue, the second house restoredand run by the El Abbadi family,consists of three interconnectingcourtyards where guests feel asthough they are negotiating thelaneways of the ancient medina.

There are eight sumptuoussuites, and four standard rooms,

Riad Maison Bleue

each with bath, private terrace,phone, television, mini-bar andair-conditioning (some have a fireplace). Some of which areaccessed by an arched footbridgeAs each suite is so individual, thisis more like staying in a privatehouse with a very slick staff.

Dinner at Riad Maison Bleue is anexperience in itself. This isMoroccan cuisine at its finest,and the poppadom-style puddingdrenched in sweet icing is to diefor. Dinner here, accompanied bya small group of Gnaouamusicians each evening, whosemusic is almost hypnotic, is a romantic’s dream.

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Other facilities include a baroverlooking the Andalusiangardens, hammam spa withmassage, fitness room androoftop terraces for breakfast and relaxation.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOFES

For those seeking a flawlessMoorish residence in the centreof the ancient city, La MaisonBleue is unbeatable. Owned andmanaged by the El Abbadi familywho originate from Andalusia.Mainly embellished in blue zellij(mosaic) and finely moldedplaster wall decoration andfeaturing some remarkable cedardoors and quintessentially Fesstained glass windows. There arefive magnificent air-conditionedsuites and one standard roomeach with double bed, bathroomwith hair-dryer, satellite TV, mini-bar and phone.

Other features of La MaisonBleue include a delightful atrium,a reading room, three salons anda rooftop terrace with breathtakingviews of the medina and where

La Maison Bleue

the ultimate breakfast is served. It also boasts one of the mostdistinguished restaurants in Fes.

An unforgettable experience ofwarm hospitality in typicalMoroccan style.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588FES

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588FES

A charming riad situated in anarrow street in the middle of themedina of Fes. Built in the 17thCentury, this converted familyhome offers its guests the choiceof four junior suites, each withbedroom and sitting room area, a Royal Suite with three bedroomsand two bathrooms and a centralsitting room with fireplace (ideal fora family or group of friends), andsix misryates (small bedrooms withbathrooms) all tastefully decoratedin traditional furnishings and set inan architectural suspension in time,but with all the comforts of modernliving, one of the few riads offeringa lift.

Dar El Ghalia

Dar El Ghalia is owned andpersonally managed by OmarLebbar in whose family thisresidence has been for 300years. The riad takes great pridein its traditional hospitality andmakes every effort to ensure itsguests feel welcome andcomfortable. This riad contains“Dar Tajine”, one of the bestknown restaurants in Fes wheresuperb home cooking providesguests with traditionalMoroccan meals. It also has finepanoramic views of the ancientcity from its roof-terrace. Otherfacilities include a homely sittingroom and a hammam.

THE BEST OF MOROCCOFES

Set in an architectural suspension in time, but with all the comforts of modern living.

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For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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The Palais Jamai is positionedaround an impressive Andalusiangarden of orange, lemon andpalm trees, and medicinal herbs.Despite its location just stepsfrom the hustle and bustle of theMedina, its marble fountains andterraces overlooking the city offera peaceful sanctuary. Designedand built with great deference toArab-Moorish style in 1879 bythe Jamai family, and intended forescape, for pleasure to the eyesand peace for the soul. Thepalace was transformed into anhotel in the 1930’s and has sincebeen the host to a multitude ofdistinguished visitors to Fes.

The Palais Jamai lives up to itsvocation by offering its guestsattentive service in tastefully

Palais Jamai

Built in typical kasbah style, thishotel offers an ideal overnightstop between Fes and theSahara. It has 30 rooms and fivejunior suites with air-conditioning,each with bath or shower. All rooms have television but donot have telephone.

The hotel is located on the edgeof Midelt and is set in gardenswith a large pool and sun terrace.Guests have the use of threecolourful, though perhaps rathergaudy, restaurants, lounges, anda bar serving alcohol. Land Roverexcursions can be arranged bythe hotel to visit the surroundingMiddle Atlas Mountains and countryside. Rooms andservice are basic but comfortable.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

decorated surroundings. Each ofits 137 rooms and suites hasbath, shower, phone, TV, mini-barand air-conditioning. There aretwo restaurants: La Djenina whichserves a la carte Internationalcuisine; and the Al Fassia whichserves Moroccan dishes.

The hotels facilities includeswimming pool, hammam(Turkish Bath), boutique andtennis. Ideal for those who wanta large hotel with conventionalfacilities that is well located forexploring the wonders of thisage-old city.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

THE BEST OF MOROCCOFES

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588MIDELT AND ZIZ VALLEY

Midelt is a small town in the Middle Atlas roughlymidway between Fes and Errachidia and makes aconvenient place to break the journey. The view tothe south of Midelt is dominated by Jebel Ayachi.The town itself is of little interest though there is amarket (Souk Jdid) where good quality MiddleAtlas killims and carpets are sold. The only otherpoint of interest is a Franciscan convent where the sisters teach local girls and women weaving,tapestry and embroidery.

KasbahAsmaa

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588TAROUDANT

THE BEST OF MOROCCO TAROUDANT

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The walls, the souks and thestark backdrop of the High Atlasare the town’s main attractionsand the best way to see the townis by horse-drawn carriage,especially at dusk. The souks arenot large but they are varied;there is a strong tradition of localcraft and much of the work hereis of outstanding quality.

Taroudant is only an hours’ drivefrom Agadir airport and aboutthree hours drive fromMarrakech. It is worth hiring a carduring your stay which will enableyou to make your own excursionsto the magnificent Glaoui Kasbahat Taliouine (50 miles); throughthe Anti Atlas Mountains to theoasis town of Tata; the walledtown of Tiznit and the naturalwonders of Tafraoute in the Anti Atlas.

With its majestic gold, pink and orangetinted circuit of high walls, Taroudant ishalf citadel and half oasis. It is a town ofgreat charm and grace. The ruddy, clayhouses, minarets and groves of orangesand pomegranates seem to drowsebeneath the gaze of the frosted HighAtlas to the north and the Anti Atlas tothe south.

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Dar Zitoune

This hotel has recently been built,just 2 kilometres outside theancient walled city of Taroudant.Dar Zitoune (The house of olives)is the creation of Marc Caburetwho has created the Dar Zitounein Berber style using localmaterials and is made up of a central reception, bar andrestaurant area, dominated by a dome with an impressivechandelier. The 14 single storyrooms are set in 4 acres oflandscaped grounds with olive,palm and orange trees. Eachroom has a good sized bathroomand is air-conditioned withsatellite TV, a safe, phone and

internet access. The Dar Zitounehas a bright, rural, relaxedatmosphere with a wellproportioned 20 metre heatedswimming pool that seducesguests with the opportunity oftaking break from exploringTaroudant and it's surroundingarea.The Dar Zitoune also offersits guests a small spa withhammam (steam room) and achoice of massage treatments.The restaurant prepares a choiceof Moroccan and Europeanmeals and since Marc is a bakerby trade, the pastries have a veryFrench bias.

THE BEST OF MOROCCOTAROUDANT

Once the palace of the Pasha ofTaroudant and built just inside theancient fortified walls. This unusual and by far the mostcharming and authentic hotel inthe area has 100 air-conditionedrooms and suites decorated intraditional Moorish style,distributed among towers andAndalusian courtyards with tallpalm trees and colourful Moorishriad gardens; each with phone,TV and bathroom.

Facilities include an intimaterather than grandiose lounge andbar, Moroccan and Internationalrestaurants, two swimming poolseach with its own pool-side bar,hammam, fully equipped fitnesscentre, handicrafts andnewspaper shop. This hotel is notpretentious but it is Moroccan atits most friendly and traditionaland its location just inside the citywalls is unrivaled.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588TAROUDANT

Palais Salam4-STAR

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOESSAOUIRA

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588ESSAOUIRA

Today, the creative nature ofEssaouira is unveiled in theateliers of its artisan workerslocated in recesses under theSkala fortress where Orson Wellsfilmed most of Othello in 1949.This setting transforms the city’scraftsmen into artists, its streetorators into poets and itsmusicians into soul healers. The most celebrated of itscraftsmen create marquetry andsculptured wood from the rootsof the Thuya tree.

Essaouira stands on a vast baysweeping south with miles ofsuperb sandy beach and woodedhills dominating the skyline to theeast. The medina with itshoneycomb of souks lends apotent mystique to the town.

Probably the best known coastaltourist town of Morocco,Essaouira is nevertheless calledthe “windy city” and is more of atown on the coast than a beachresort. The fortified harbour is ahive of activity with fishing netslaid out on the quayside, boatsunloading their catches, fishauctions and stalls servingseafood sizzling on grills.

The word “Essaouira” means “image”. Observed from anyangle, Essaouira is a perfect photograph. Behind its purpleramparts and inside its whitewashed medina with bluedoors lies a city that has been influenced by various cultures(Berber, Carthaginian, Portuguese, English, Bambara andothers). It was the Jewish traders that once formed themajority of the population and it was they who transformedEssaouira into what became Morocco’s most prosperous cityin the 17th and 18th centuries.

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Heure Bleu

Situated just inside the walls of thetown next to the Bab Marrakech(The Marrakech gate), you wouldbe hard pushed to find a betterlocation in Essaouira, the HeureBleu has been diligentlytransformed and renovated.Originally a travellers hotel, it nowresembles a colonial residence.Nowadays this prestigious Relais& Chateau boasts attentiveservice, an excellent hammam,beauty and massage parlour androof top swimming pool - thefacilities you would expect of suchan impressive establishment. The16 rooms and 19 suites are wellfurnished and air conditioned, thedécor reflecting the Portuguese,English and African influences thathave shaped Essaouira, all roomsface onto the central courtyard intraditional Riad style.

The hotel also boasts a billiardroom, a restaurant that is proud ofits French / oriental fusion cuisine.

Indeed if you are so inspired, thehotel also organises group orindividual cooking classes in itskitchens. The downstairs area hasa quiet salon for pre / post dinnerdrinks and afternoon tea. The hotel also features wirelessinternet access if you need toengage the outside world.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

THE BEST OF MOROCCOESSAOUIRA

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588ESSAOUIRA

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Light and brilliance are the keywords in describing this “whiteupon white” charming little riad-style hotel with its seven delightfulrooms. Superbly renovated by itsFrench owner, this enchantinghouse will not fail to please its guests.

Located just off the main squareof Essaouira and near the portand ramparts with stunning viewsfrom its roof-terrace.

Dar Loulema

Dar Loulema has two sittingrooms as well as a Moroccansalon and a small dining room.Breakfast is served in the guests’rooms, in any of the salons or onthe roof terrace. There are anumber of excellent restaurantsnearby for lunch and dinner. The riad is not air-conditioned buteach room has a fan.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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Villa Maroc

Staying at the Villa Maroc is morelike staying in a private house.Located in the heart of Essaouiraand yet just minutes from thebeach. At once relaxed andinformal with fireplaces in thelounges. Meals are served in oneof the lounge areas, the patio orthe roof terrace, depending onthe time of year.

The roof terrace has superbviews across the medina and the

coast and is where guests cansunbathe. The villa, originally two18th Century riads (houses builtaround a central courtyard) hasten rooms, seven suites and two apartments.

Ideal for families and individualsalike. Noted for its relaxedatmosphere and good food. Very “House & Garden”.

THE BEST OF MOROCCOESSAOUIRA

P 69

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588ESSAOUIRA

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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Hippocampe

A small and very good-naturedfamily run hotel, with 23unaffected but clean andcomfortable rooms and twosplendid suites overlooking thebreathtaking views of the lagoon,all with bath or shower. There is a restaurant serving a widevariety of seafood dishes. Itscolourful gardens are lovinglytended and of course it issituated right next to the beachand has a pool (not heated). The hotel can arrange a local taxi to take guests on full andhalf-day excursions to places of interest.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

THE BEST OF MOROCCOOUALIDIA

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The stunning beaches with finesand lend themselves to safebathing, surfing, windsurfing andsmall fishing boat excursions.Oualidia is the main oyster centreof Morocco. To the south of thevillage, a variety of small sandycoves and rocky cliffs offerseclusion and splendid walks.Visitors will have the village andbeaches more or less tothemselves between October andJune whereas July to Septemberis high season when manyFrench and Moroccans spendtheir summer months at thisenchanting location.

Birdwatching is a major feature ofthe wetlands that stretch forseveral kilometers to the north ofthe village and have some ofthe richest habitats for migratingbirds from September - April.

Oualidia is a charming little village situated between El Jadida and Safi and about two hours drive fromMarrakech. The village is spread around the southern shores of an 11 Km inland lagoon filled by the sea through two breaches in the coastal rock wall.

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588OUALIDIA

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THE BEST OF MOROCCORABAT

Probably the best address forvisitors to Rabat. It has 144 air-conditioned rooms and suites,all luxuriously decorated and withphone, TV and safe.

The hotel is well situated in thecentre of Rabat. Its facilitiesinclude two restaurants(international and Moroccan), two bars, business centre, fitnessand beauty centre with jacuzzi,sauna, hammam, solarium andhairdresser, as well as anattractive pool (not heated) set in colourful gardens.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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Located in the heart of the city,this hotel maintains a tradition ofexcellence to satisfy the mostdemanding guests. Each of the182 en-suite and air-conditionedrooms is spacious and wellcomposed, and has satellite TV,phone, mini-bar and hairdryer.There are two restaurants and aconvivial watering hole, a TVroom, fitness and beauty centre,sauna, shops, hairdressing salonand coffee shop.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

Situated on the "Corniche"(beachfront) of Casablanca, just15 minutes from the city centre,this hotel has 198 en-suite andair-conditioned rooms and suiteswith minibar, phone and satellite TV.

Facilities include a large pooloverlooking the sandy beach,piano bar, three restaurants,Thalassotherapy Health Centre(see our website for full details),gym, boutiques and 24-hourroom service.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

P 73

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588CASABLANCA

La Tour Hassan5-STAR

Royal Mansour5-STAR DELUXE

Riad Salam4-STAR

It should be noted thatCasablanca is the commercialand industrial centre of Morocco.

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Ksar Massa

THE BEST OF MOROCCOMASSA

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588THE SAHARA AND THE SOUTH

on the terraces (weatherpermitting). There is a library andTV room, sitting areas and barwith spectacular views of thecoast. There is also a traditionalhammam with massage facilitiesand of course the large sea-waterpool. There are no phones, butmobiles work reasonably well. All rooms and villas are air-conditioned. Ideal for thoseseeking relaxation, sea-bathing,walks through the National Parkand fishing excursions which canbe arranged by the hotel withlocal fishermen in their boats orbeach-casting. Ksar Massacombines extremely well with a few days in the Anti-AtlasMountains (Tafraout) and is nottoo far from Marrakech to make a two-centre holiday (about 4hours drive).

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

Situated about 40 kms south ofAgadir on the Atlantic Coast nearthe village of Sidi Rbat, standingin divine isolation is the KsarMassa. On the edge of theSouss-Massa National Park withits astonishing wealth of wildlifeand the most importantsanctuary for migrating birds inMorocco (see our web-site for a complete list of birds).

The hotel is seven kms along adusty track overlooking miles ofglorious sandy beach. It has tendelightfully decorated rooms withterrace and sea view as well as a two and three-bedroom villa. All the rooms are large withseparate seating area decoratedin traditional materials, and eachroom has its own charm,personality and warm colouring.The main building has a largediningroom where Moroccandishes are served at dinner.Breakfast and lunch can be taken

It is an immense land ofbreathtaking mountains throughwhich the rivers Draa and Dadeshave driven two thin wedges offertility, as beguiling as anymirage. The approach to theSouth is no less memorable; theroad from Marrakech corkscrewsup through the Atlas forests to analtitude of 7,400 feet at the Colde Tichka before dropping downinto the remarkable landscapesurrounding Ouarzazate.

The main towns - Ouarzazate,Zagora, Erfoud and Errachidia are not in themselves sensational,but the vast areas between thesetowns can only be described aswondrous. The roads thatconnect these towns haveremarkably good surfaces andwill take you through trulyunforgettable parts of the Sahara. However, each town and village has its interestingfeatures and should not beoverlooked altogether.

The vital importance of the PalmTree in the Sahara It is said that the date palm “musthave its head in the fire and itsfeet in the water”. The thousandsof acres of palm trees that sogloriously line the valleys and riverbeds of southern Moroccoprovide the only source ofincome to most of the families inthese areas. Apart from thedomestic market, some 90,000tons of dates are exportedannually from the five million treesthat can live for as long as 150years. The tall and defiant palm

tree provides the essential shadeto the fruit trees and crops thatflourish under the broad fronds.The roots bind the soil fromerosion by the desert wind; thetrunk is used in most local homesas supporting beams, and thefronds are the wattle for floorsand walls as well as being usedfor baskets and mats. The palmflower is said to be anaphrodisiac. Other uses includerope-making from the fibre,sections of the trunk are hollowedout to make buckets, and apotent illicit spirit can be distilledfrom the sap to make wine. It isan uplifting experience to stop atthe side of the road and walkthrough the serenity of a palmgrove, but remember to respectthe crops and shrubs.

The High Atlas mountains mark the final frontier beforecrossing into the heart of old Morocco. Here, amid theimmeasurable silences of the pre-Sahara, is an all-forgottenworld of fortified villages (ksour), Berber castles (Kasbahs)and irrelevant Foreign Legion outposts. Once they were theall-important staging points on the camel routes that tiedMarrakech to the great trading capitals of the Sahara withtheir gold and slaves from Timbuktou.

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THE BEST OF MOROCCO CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588

It is an immense land of breathtakingmountains through which the rivers Draaand Dades have driven two thin wedgesof fertility, as beguiling as any mirage.

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Owned and managed by a Frenchcouple, this friendly lakeside hotelwith 13 air-conditioned rooms issituated 12 miles east ofOuarzazate with dazzling viewsoverlooking Lake El Mansour. Therooms have a Moroccan sittingroom area, shower, w.c. and hair-dryer. There is a pool overlookingthe lake and surrounded by a terrace and gardens.

Lunch and dinner are served in theBerber tent and breakfast can beserved on the terrace. A salon inMoroccan style is planned. Whilstthe views toward the lake arebreathtaking, it should be notedthat the views towards the northare less than attractive, but thisshould not affect your enjoymentof Les Tourmalines.

Riad Salam Less than a mile away from thehotel are the largest stables inMorocco, housing horses andcamels which can be hired with a local guide by the hour (about£12) or full day (about £40including lunch).

An ideal location to combinerelaxation with stunning views ofthe lake and exploring the DraaValley, the Dades and TodraGorges and some of the mostspectacular rocky desertlandscape in the Sahara with itspalm groves and dozens of kasbahs.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

Situated just off the main street ofOuarzazate and overlooking theriver, this hotel has 124 air-conditioned rooms with en-suitebathrooms. It has a good poolwith sun terraces and colourfulgardens, a restaurant and bars.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

THE BEST OF MOROCCOHOTELS OF THE SOUTH / OUARZAZATE

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Adhering to local culture, the hotelis built in kasbah style, and with a mix of Berber and traditionalcrafts, an ambience of space andcharm has been created.

Centrally located on a high point,the hotel has 235 air-conditionedrooms and suites each withprivate terrace/patio, satellite TV,hairdryer, safe, phone, mini-bar,bath & shower. Facilities includelarge pool (not heated), diningroom serving Moroccan andinternational cuisine, grill andpiano bar, boutique and fitnesscentre with hammam sauna,massage and jacuzzi.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

Berbere Palace

Les Tourmalines

P 79

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588OUARZAZATE

4-STAR

5-STAR

P 78

While most travellers in theSahara are pleasantly surprisedat seeing modern, well-equippedhotels in such remote places withswimming pools, night clubs,tennis courts and some quiteastonishingly splendid buildings. We must point out that thestandards of 4-star hotels (only a few are really worthy of suchrating - others “should” bereassigned 3-star status) in the

Hotels of the South

south should not be comparedwith those in larger cities. The vast majority of visitors tothese areas are members of toursand usually spend one night ateach place which of coursedecreases the quality andstandard of food and service.

Nevertheless, you should notmiss the south for the sake of anoccasional indifferent waiter or

meal. On occasion, for example,an hotel may be unable toprovide tomato juice for yourbloody Mary because of sporadicdeliveries to remoter regions; thewater for your shower may notbe as hot as you would like it,and when the wind blows in thesouth it spreads sand and dustand this can make any buildinglook scruffy. The service, thoughgenerally very friendly, can be

lacking in an understanding ofurgency or the finer points of lifethat we tend to take for granted.They are trying very hard and areanxious to please, so do bear inmind that tourism is relativelynovel in this part of the world.Most (not all) return from thesouth impressed and fulfilled.

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A small but simple family-runhotel of great charm andcharacter built in typical kasbahstyle and made from pisé(reinforced mud). All rooms haveshower and are air-conditioned.The hotel is situated on theoutskirts of Zagora and has adelightful palm-tree courtyardwith refreshing pool, salon de thé,boutique, restaurant and bar.

La Fibule

The hotel can also arrange camelrides in the surrounding area forits guests.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

THE BEST OF MOROCCOZAGORA

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Situated at the edge of the dunesat Merzouga, in sight of ErgChebbi, the highest dune at over250 meters.

The Kasbah Mohayut is a simplebut charming Kasbah styledguest house, run by the amiable"Moha". The rooms surroundgarden areas and arecomfortable with en-suitefacilities, some have air-conditioning (payable locally). The restaurant provides all yourneeds with hearty Berber-cuisine,meals are taken either in here, inthe garden area or on the roofwith stunning views over the dunes.

From the hotel you have a choice of overnight stay in thedunes, either in the deep dunes(A two hour camel ride) or at theedge of the dunes (A 30 minutecamel ride) - staying in a berbertents - watching the stars atbedtime and sunrise in the morning.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

Kasbah Mohayut

P 81

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588MERZOUGA

3-STAR

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOMERZOUGA

The Desert Inn

A captivating auberge in anawesome desert setting, locatedabout ten miles from Merzougaand 15 miles from Erfoud. It has a complement of 19 rooms andbungalows, all with shower.Facilities include a dining room(remarkably good Moroccan/International food), lounge (withoccasional TV) and drinks areserved in the garden or at the pool terrace. Dinner is served inthe garden under olive trees(weather permitting).

Although simple and probably themost isolated hotel in Morocco, it has a distinctive charm andcharacter of its own. Its slightlyeccentric but colourful owner,Michel, has created anextraordinarily unusual butdelightful retreat and over themany years we have worked withhim, we have seen the Desert Innexpand and develop. Now there

are various farmyard animals anda tennis court (Michel declines topronounce who on earth is goingto play tennis in the middle of theSahara, but the court looks goodanyway). In addition to providingsimple niceties in a warm andcomfortable atmosphere, there is something very special aboutthis hotel.

The hotel arranges full or half day4- wheel drive excursions of thedesert as well as overnightexpeditions either on camel or inLand Rovers with accommodationin Berber tents in the dunes of Merzouga.

The Desert Inn closes each yearbetween 15 June - 31 Aug and 6 Jan - 6 Feb.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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The road connecting Zagora with Erfoud (about four hoursdrive via the oasis towns of Alnif, Tazzarine and N’kob)enables travellers to complete the triangle of Ouarzazate,Zagora and Erfoud. Erfoud is essential if you want to see orclimb the 650 ft dunes at Merzouga - about 35 minutes fromthe town which can be reached with any standard car (4 x 4is not essential, but a guide is). Erfoud is also a mere 15 kmsfrom the desert market town of Rissani.

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588ERFOUD

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The Dunes and Camel Treks

Having stuffed our tooth-brushes,handbags and a sweater eachinto our saddlebags, and havinghad the rest of our belongingslocked into the luggage room atthe hotel, we finally set off fromZagora at about half past three.

Within minutes my mother haddecided to dismount her camelclaiming that she had been givenone with a particularly bony back.I offered her mine, who seemedquite nicely padded, but sheassured me she was quite happywalking. My father, by contrast,was at the front of our train, kafiabound around his head, lookingalmost as snooty as his camel,enjoying every bit of his Lawrenceof Arabia moment.

Over three hours the lush palmgroves turned into ripples ofdunes, and a horizon that I canonly imagine resembles the

moon. Rolling forwards andbackwards on my awkwardbeast, I have to admit feelingbriefly unnerved by the expanseof nothingness in every direction,but then strangely elated by it.Aside from the few children whogazed curiously at us from behindpalm trees, and our camel man,we were alone in the desert.At dusk we arrived at camp - four Berber tents strung up in thisocean of oblivion and two otherEnglish families enjoying tea inthe Sahara. As night fell, a hugebonfire was lit to cook our dinner- tagines and couscous, breadand wine. As the mint tea arrived,so did the Gnaoua musicians.Their shrill tones and clownlikedancing seemed almostridiculous in such a setting. I layback on the blanket, their eeriesounds echoing in the void wewere in, and knew that I wouldnever see a sky like that again.

And so to bed (as the nightlifetends to be fairly limited in thedesert). Having brushed my teethwith bottled water, I was relievedto sink into a proper mattress,covered with crisp white sheetsand heavy blankets. All theingredients for a good night’ssleep. However, being slightlyneurotic, I got it into my headthat I was sharing my bed withsome weird desert creepy-crawly,and went and got into bed withmy parents. This would havebeen alright with them had I notjust turned twenty-four, and itwould have been alright with me had my Father not snored all night.

The following morning we wereawoken at some ungodly hour tosee the sunrise. Then breakfastand we were off. My Mother diddecide to give her camel asecond chance and discovered

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOERFOUD

The Todra Gorge

Kasbah Lamrani

A small and typical kasbah-stylehotel with 22 air-conditionedrooms, each with its ownbathroom, satellite TV and phone.The kasbah has an Internationalas well as a Moroccan restaurantset in a local Berber Tent. There isalso a lounge area and a largepool in the gardens.

An ideal stopping place for visitingthe Todra Gorge (15 km away)and the surrounding palm-groves.It is a family-run hotel that offersgreat warmth and pleasanthospitality and they will arrangelocal guides to accompany gueststo some of the dramatic places ofinterest in the Tineghir area.

At Tineghir, take a 20 km side-trip through the glorious TodraValley that takes you throughluxuriant ribbons of palm andolive groves, almond andpomegranate trees, patchworksof tiny cropfields and about adozen pink-grey villages beforeentering the mouth of the TodraGorge, a canyon 1,000 ft high,cut into the pink and green wallsof the High Atlas wherebirdwatchers and wildlifeenthusiasts can experience somevery exciting opportunities. Theactual Todra Canyon is only a fewhundred yards long and tocontinue further, a 4 x 4 vehicle is essential.

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that sidesaddle was the answer.Back at La Fibule, about threehours and a slightly differentroute later, the hotel kindlyallowed us to use a room toshower in and use of theirlovely pool.

All in all a fantastic experience,and definitely worth the slightlynumb bum!

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588TINEGHIR

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The Valley of the Kasbahs

THE BEST OF MOROCCOSAHARA SOUTH

The road from Ouarzazate passesdirectly through this forest of ochrefortresses and stretches 100 mileseast to the Todra Gorge at Tineghir.

A spectacular drive throughstunning desert landscape, villages,palm groves and the Jebel Sargholunar-scape to the south. At ElKelaa M’gouna, there are hedgesof wild roses. Throughout May, thewomen from the surroundingvillages pick 700 tons of pink rosepetals, which are harvested andmade into a rather headyrosewater at the local distillery. At Boumalne, take a side turningthat leads through the dramaticlandscape of the Dades Valley; atTineghir, turn north for 13 milesand enter the breath-taking Todra Gorge.

Behind many of these villages arehundreds of occupied andabandoned kasbahs which are wellworth exploring with local guides.Of particular note are the palmgroves around Skoura and Tineghir.

The people of this region arecolourful, charming, helpful andvery hospitable. You may well beinvited into their homes for the a lamenthe (mint tea) or even to jointhe family in a ritual kouskous –however, you should be warnedthat this may take several hoursout of your day and you will beexpected to leave a donation(normally around 100 Dirhams).

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588SAHARA SOUTH

Approx. distances in miles (Kms):-

Ouarzazate to Skoura 20 (32)

Skoura to El Kelaa M’gouna 35 (56)

El Kelaa to Boumalne 18 (29)

Boumalne to Tineghir 32 (52)

Tineghir to Erfoud 91 (146)

The road from Ouarzazate passesdirectly through this forest of ochrefortresses and stretches 100 miles eastto the Todra Gorge at Tineghir.

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Dades Valley

THE BEST OF MOROCCOSKOURA

Sawadi

Jardins de SkouraThis charming little hotel (ownedand managed by Carole Lecomte)is located about 2.5km off themain road, set in the palm grovesnear the village of Skoura thatstretch toward the High AtlasMountains and in an area offascinating inhabited andabandoned kasbahs. Les Jardins de Skoura has eightrooms/suites set in colourfulgardens with vines, olive, apricot,pomegranate and fig trees. Each room / suite is decorated intraditional style with warmcolours each with its own showerand w.c. All rooms have heating

for the chilly winter nights. There is a small pool (not heated),a restaurant/dining room and roof terrace.

An ideal setting for a couple ofdays relaxation combined withexploring the spectacular palmgroves, the kasbahs andforgotten villages in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. Thehotel can arrange local guidesand excursions with a picnic.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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Set deep in the palm grove, thisguest farm is the result of whenBernard Ribet came to Skoura forlunch, he stayed three nights,and ended up buying this pieceof tranquility.

It has been transformed into afinely finished miniature kasbahwith an immaculate pool and areal farm complete with breedingpens for sheep and donkeys.Sawadi is justifiably proud to beself-sufficient in water, poultry,lamb, Pomegranates, apricots,olive oil and coriander. Sawadi looks as exquisitelyauthentic as any other kasbahalong this famous route.

The house style accommodationis simply furnished butcomfortable. Nearby, there's off-road biking for the energeticand boules for the more sedate,additionally bicycles are availableto guests to explore the Palmerie

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588DADES

The Dades Valley is like a Wild-West land suspended in anotherage, with snow on one side andsemi-desert on the other, an OldTestament wilderness whosesavage grandeur and unearthlysilence can only be equalled bythe Grand Canyon. The DadesRiver flows through the valley likea magic elixir, lacing a miraculoustrail, a tapestry of small fields withwalnut, silver birch, fig andalmond trees set against abackdrop of extraordinary andspectacular rocky landformations. To protect themselvesfrom invaders, the Berberserected literally hundreds ofkasbahs. The 25 kms of windingroad from Boumalne passesdirectly through this forest ofochre fortresses.

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THE BEST OF MOROCCODADES

Chez Pierre

A delightful little maison d’hôtessituated in an isolated butbeautiful setting in the DadesValley about 23 kms from thetown of Boumalne. There are tenattractive rooms, each with privatefacilities. The restaurant serves a variety of inspired dishes.

There is a pool and sun terracefrom where guests can admire theviews of the valley and colourfulterraced gardens with flowers and trees.

Ideal for one or two nights andtime to explore the spectacularscenery and kasbahs lining thetwisting road along the valley. Also suitable for those who enjoy hiking.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588DADES

The Dades Valley is like a Wild-Westland suspended in another age, withsnow on one side and semi-desert onthe other

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La Roseraie

THE BEST OF MOROCCOOUIRGANE

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La Roseraie is a remarkableproperty tucked away in thefoothills of the High AtlasMountains at an altitude of 3,000ft. next to the village of Ouirganeand only about 90 minutes drivefrom Marrakech. It is set in 50acres of gorgeous rose gardens,park and farmland. The climate isgentle in winter and moderate in summer.

You will find yourselves in the heartof Berber countryside where pathslead to picturesque villages andhamlets, through forests andhunting reserves filled with wild-life.Streams from the snow-cappedmountains cascade through thecountryside with its carpet of wildflowers, olive, orange, lime, lemonand grapefruit trees.

The extraordinarily colourful rosegardens bloom from April toDecember. Local colour can alsobe seen at the nearby souks atOuirgane on Thursdays and Asnion Saturdays.

La Roseraie has 40 cottage-stylerooms and suites, all withbathroom, patio leading into thegardens and some junior suiteswith an open wood-burningfireplace. There are fourswimming pools (one indoor and three outdoor) and two tennis courts.

Meals are served on the shadedterrace or in the indoorrestaurant. There is a cosy lounge with a roaring fire for thechilly winter evenings. La Roseraie is a perfect haven for relaxation, peace and healthyliving. A fairyland for artists,birdwatchers, gardeners andramblers alike.

La Roseraie Riding CentreThe riding centre at La Roseraiehas superb Arab horses whichguests can ride by the hour or bythe day, or with a local guide intothe surrounding countryside,spending one to five nights invery simple Berber houses.

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588OUIRGANE

La Roseraie Health CentreWith the emphasis on healthyliving, this facet of La Roseraieoffers its guests the use of anheated indoor pool, jacuzzi,hammam, sauna and fitnessequipment together with staffspecialising in facial and bodytreatments in Shiatsu, reflexology, Body-Scratching,hydro-jet massage, manicure and pedicure.

Junior Suite

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

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THE BEST OF MOROCCO

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOIMLIL

In every sense, this is a veryimpressive spot - The Kasbah isperched at 1800 metres on agreat rock outcrop above thevillage of Imlil with panoramicviews of valleys, waterfalls andthe magnificent Jbel Toubkal at4165m, the highest mountain inNorth Africa. It is reached by a 10to 15 minute walk or mule ridefrom the village. Run, and partlybuilt with the co-operation of thelocal villagers, the Kasbah duToubkal has been publiclyacclaimed as a fine example ofeco-tourism.

The eight en-suite bedrooms,three Berber saloons and threebedroom house are all differentand have a range of views andstyles, however all are nicelyfurnished, very comfortable andspacious and whilst they are notair-conditioned, they do have thebenefit of ionised mountain air.

Overnight guided excursions tothe summit of Toubkal can bearranged, together with a stay inthe newly completed, remarkablycomfortable remote trekkinglodge, or day walks with orwithout guide can be arranged locally.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

Kasbah du Toubkal

P 96

Les Amandiers

A Kasbah-style hotel situated ona prominent hill with spectacularviews commanding the town ofTafraout. The air-conditionedrooms are spacious, clean,simple and have en-suite bath orshower facilities. The hotel hasthe only pool in the town with aterrace overlooking thespectacular rock formations onthe opposite side of the town. It has a reasonable restaurantserving a mixture of internationaland Moroccan dishes, a bar andtwo sitting rooms.

However, Les Amandiers is to beused primarily as a stopping offpoint and not for any otherreason. Whilst it is clean andwholesome, this is not amemorable hotel. Well worth itthough for exploring the Anti-Atlas and the dramaticsurrounding countryside.

For more pictures and information, seeour website: www.realmorocco.com

P 97

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588TAFRAOUT

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOHIGH ATLAS

Trekking in the High Atlas

Trekking or walking in Moroccooffers a rich and colourfulexperience, allowing a privilegedand unhurried contact with aworld scarcely changed in athousand years; friendly peoplesand ancient cultures, spectacularscenery and remarkablyrefreshing activity.

Morocco is a varied country,ranging from high mountains anddeep gorges to vast sand seas,yet at the same time the annualsnows provide water, so there arecultivated valleys, a blaze ofspring blossoms and habitationsin the remotest corner. Both inthe huge panoramas and in theintimate details, the Atlas rangesoffer a world of kaleidoscopicsurprises. The unruffled world ofthe mountain Berber tribes isremote and only recently open tovisitors, but this has helped tokeep the people unspoilt bywestern influences. Shepherdsstill lead their flocks on themountainside, women still gatherat the village wells, mule trails stillcarry walnuts to the weeklysouks, and mountain kasbahsperch on defensive spurs. Trekking in Morocco is neitherburdensome nor uncomfortable.

We provide mules to carry yourbaggage and all the equipment,so the walks are unencumbered.Professional Berber guides whoare proud of their beautiful world,plenty of time and refreshment enroute and comfortable campseach evening - with staff toprovide the touches that makeroughing it an enjoyableexperience. No previousexperience is needed. Probablythe finest trekking in the AtlasMountains is found in theBougmez Valley. Mule tracks linkpicturesque villages and valleys,passes and gorges are followedin treks through this enchantingpart of the world. We urgeanyone with the faintest spirit ofadventure to visit some of theplaces that only 70 years ago had never been seen by Europeans.

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588HIGH ATLAS

We urge anyone with the faintest spiritof adventure to visit some of the placesthat only 70 years ago had never beenseen by Europeans.

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Sahara Land Rover Safari

The great Sahara Desert holds animmediate fascination for thoseseeking a ‘once in a lifetime’journey. A Land Rover Safarioffers some of the mostspectacular sightseeing inthe world.

Listed below is a sample of anintinerary for a 4 x 4 safari for 4days that will be intense,challenging, rewarding andmemorable. From the vitality thatis Marrakech, the grandeur andmagnificence of the High AtlasMountains, the rugged pistes(rough tracks) and oasis-strewnvalleys of the mountain people, tothe whispering silence of thewadis and weather-torn plateausof the Sahara. There are otherchoices of 4-7 day itineraries andadventures that will remain inone’s memory forever.

Although these tours are notdesigned for the faint-heartedand a certain amount of teamspirit is required, they arenonetheless suitable for anyonebetween the ages of 8 - 75. Highquality air-conditioned LandRovers or Landcruisers willenable you to experience andenjoy many of the thrills andadventures of the Sahara.These itineraries have beenspecially designed to coincidewith various weather conditionsat differing times of the year.The dates indicated are notnecessarily set in stone and canbe used with a little flexibility.Departures are available on adaily basis as each itinerary willcomprise your group alone sincewe do not mix families or groups.

A sample 4-Day Itinerary from Marrakech (mid-Oct – end of April)

Day 1. 0800 departure fromMarrakech crossing Tiz n’Tichkapass to Ouarzazate. Lunch.Continue on through Amerzgane,Tazenakht and Foum Zguid. 212 miles.

Day 2. Drive about 3 hourstowards the dunes of Mzahil.After lunch, walk in the dunes.Overnight camp in the dunes.

Day 3. Piste towards the dunesof Smar. Walk in the dunes ofEbidiya. Continue on pistetowards Mhamid and TagounitOasis. Overnight camp nearFoum Takkat.

Day 4. Early morning departureon piste to Beni Ali and join theroad at Zagora for 225 mile drivealong Draa valley to Ouarzazateand Marrakech.

Full details of other itineraries withprices and information about what isincluded can be found on our website.

THE BEST OF MOROCCO

P 100

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588SAHARA LAND ROVER SAFARI

P 101

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Dip into a world untouched bymodernity. Immerse yourself inrural tradition. Horsetrekking inthe Atlas Mountains is a meansof exploring the real Morocco andrelishing its remote beauty andbreathtaking mountain scenery.Combine the idyllic setting,comforts and facilities of La Roseraie (see pages 96/97), in the foothills of the High Atlas,with a discovery journey onhorse-back.

There are various options:individual day treks in thesurrounding mountains, stoppingfor a picnic lunch in an almostbiblical hamlet, in a meadow orby a stream - riding for at leastfour hours a day and returning tothe hotel for dinner. Alternatively,we can arrange two to five-daytreks, staying in very simpleBerber houses (often with no

Horse riding and trekking

electricity or running water) duringthe winter months or under thestars in the summer. These treksare led by experienced guidesand your baggage is carried bymules. It is important to note thatsome equestrian experience isessential. Any combination canbe arranged with the stables atLa Roseraie, and of course thesecan be combined with a few daysin Marrakech.

Hourly horse-riding lessons arealso available (payable direct tothe stables).

Riding stables - there are twoexcellent riding stables justoutside Marrakech which arrangehalf and full-day horse treks in the surrounding countryside. Our office in Marrakech will bepleased to give you details or youcan refer to our web site.

THE BEST OF MOROCCOHORSE RIDING AND TREKKING

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588HORSE RIDING AND TREKKING

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOGOLF

Golf

Golf in Morocco is hot stuff inevery way - glorious weather,glorious courses, glorious food,glorious people - and all this amere three hours from London -less time than it takes to playnine holes at some of theovercrowded Spanish andPortuguese courses, a good dealless expensive, and they arerarely crowded.

MarrakechMarrakech has three superb 18-hole championship courses(all par 72). The Royal Golf Club(6,141 yards) set in a stunninglybeautiful forest; the PalmeraieGolf (6,214 yards) and theAmelkis (6,657 yards). All threecourses are no more than 15minutes by car from any of the hotels.

El JadidaThe El Jadida Royal Golf Course(6,003m, par 72) is set in theSofitel’s grounds and overlooksthe Atlantic Ocean.

RabatThe Royal Dar Es-Salam GolfClub is set in a 1,000 acre forestof cork trees. This 45-holecomplex is only 15-20 minutesfrom Rabat and comprises threecourses designed by RobertTrent Jones.

(More detailed descriptions can befound on our web site).

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CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588GOLF

Marrakech

El Jadida

Rabat

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Sample Itineraries

Valid from 1/June 2006 - 31/Oct 2007 (excluding Christmas, New Year& Easter periods)

Prices include return flights and taxes, transfers on arrival/departure,car hire as specified and based on two people sharing a twin/doublestandard room. Itineraries can be modified on request.

7 nights – Sahara Desert1 night Belere, Ouarzazate with HB1 night La Fibule, Zagora with HB (journey: 31⁄2 hrs)*2 nights Desert Inn, Merzouga with HB (journey: 51⁄2 hrs)1 night Kasbah Lamrani, Tineghir with HB (journey: 31⁄2 hrs)1 night Chez Pierre, Dades Valley with HB (journey: 21⁄2 hrs)1 night Belere, Ouarzazate with HB (journey: 21⁄2 hrs)Group ‘A’ car for 7 days(*optional – camel trek for one night)Costs - £940 per person

8 nights – City, coast and Atlas Mountains3 nights Caravanserai, Marrakech with BB2 nights Dar Loulema, Essaouira with BB (journey: 21⁄2 hrs)3 nights Tigmi, Tagadert with HB (journey: 21⁄2 hrs)Group ‘A’ car for 5 daysCosts - £1,060 per person

10 nights – Marrakech & the Sahara3 nights Riad Maison Bleue, Fes with BB*2 nights Desert Inn, Merzouga with HB (journey: 8 hrs)1 night Kasbah Lamrani, Tineghir with HB (journey: 31⁄2 hrs)1 night Jardins de Skoura, Skoura with HB (journey: 21⁄2 hrs)3 nights Riad Kaiss, Marrakech with BB (journey: 5 hrs)Group ‘A’ car for 5 days(*optional – camel trek for one night)Cost - £1,260 per person

14 nights - Anti-Atlas, coast & Marrakech2 nights Palais Salam, Taroudant with HB2 night Les Amandiers, Tafraoute with HB (journey: 4 hrs)2 nights Ksar Massa, Sidi Rbat with HB (journey: 21⁄2 hrs)2 nights Dar Loulema, Essaouira with BB (journey: 41⁄2 hrs)2 nights Hippocampe, Oualidia with HB (journey: 3 hrs)4 nights Les Yeux Bleus, Marrakech with BB (journey: 21⁄2 hrs)Group ‘A’ car for 9 daysCost - £1,350 per person

THE BEST OF MOROCCOMOROCCO A LA CARTE

Few countries can offer such abrilliant array of new experiencesas Morocco. A country with onefoot in a glittering past and theother, most assuredly, in thepresent. No single image canreally capture its elusive essence.There is sun, surf and sand inabundance, and then there is theMorocco of the Imperial Citieswith their age-old monumentsand teeming souks. But behindthem both - often only a shortdrive away - is the eternal,unchanging Morocco of sleepyvillages, olive groves and palm-clad oases, towering peaks,(often snow-capped) and desertsin the south.

It is a country that cries out to beexplored. Perhaps the answer isthe open road. So much inMorocco reinforces our sense ofit being a land of our time, it iseasy to forget that it can alsoboast one of the best developedroad networks in Africa. Tarmacroads link all the main towns,passing through a richness oflandscape and climates that mostvisitors barely suspect. Signpostsare the same as in Europe -directions are in French andArabic and, if you exclude mules,horse-drawn carts and bicycles,the traffic is exceptionally light.Petrol is available in all but thesmallest of villages and costs (inJune 2006) about 70p per litreand diesel about 62p per litre.

A British, European or NorthAmerican driving licence is all youneed. It must be rememberedthat flights are not restricted to asingle destination. It is permissibleto fly into one airport (e.g. Fes)and fly out of another (e.g.Marrakech) thus adding greaterflexibility to any itinerary that youmay be planning.

From our extensive experience ofMorocco, we are able to adviseyou on an itinerary to suit yourparticular interests andrequirements. Just phone or e-mail us with all your details and we can suggest a suitableitinerary, together with theappropriate price. Then, with your approval and a credit carddeposit as a guarantee, we will make all the necessary reservations.

Your choice of cars - see priceinsert or our web site, from a FiatUno (or similar) to the luxury of anair-conditioned saloon car or a 4 x 4 self-drive. (See page 110for car hire). All cars includeunlimited mileage, local taxes andCollision Damage Waiver (CDW).Cars can be delivered/collectedanywhere in Morocco, either toyour hotel or at an airport onarrival or departure. Cars can bedelivered in one area andcollected in another.

Morocco à la Carte

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We offer a selection of small,medium and larger cars with air-conditioning, as well as 4-wheel-drive and mini-bus with driver.The prices listed in the insert tothis brochure include unlimitedmileage, CDW, PAI and all localtaxes. Delivery and collection isarranged to and from any hotelfeatured in our brochure and isfree in most major towns. A charge is made to some of themore remote places when arental is for less than seven days(full details in the price insert).

Driving in Morocco is safe andoffers travellers a lot of fun. The country has an excellentnetwork of good tarmac roadslinking all the main towns andcities covering the north, thethree main passes over the HighAtlas Mountains and much of the

Car Hire

Sahara Desert. Road signs areclearly visible and are in French.We can provide those wishing tocover more than two or threedestinations with a large-scalemap at £7. A full driving license isrequired for any rental(International license is notneeded). If you are just twopeople travelling, an inexpensivegroup “A” car will take youanywhere in Morocco. Largercars obviously have more powerand greater comfort and thegroup “D” has the added benefitof air-conditioning which ispreferable from April/May until theend of September/October. Roof racks and child seats areavailable on request.

THE BEST OF MOROCCOCAR HIRE

P 108

4 X 4 carsA Toyota RAV 4 (4-seater) orToyota Land Cruiser (8-seater)can obviously add anotherdimension to your holiday as theywill enable you to get off some ofthe main roads and explore smallvillages and hamlets, mountaintracks and desert pistes. Both cars are air-conditioned andare great fun to drive, but arereally not necessary for travellingbetween Marrakech andEssaouira for example.

Fuel costsAt the time of publication (June2006), petrol is about 70p perlitre and diesel about 62p perlitre. On delivery, you will be givena car with a full tank and will haveto pay the delivery driver theappropriate amount in localcurrency or credit card.

You should return the car at theend of your rental empty as norefund is made on unused fuel.

Car hire with driverFor those who just want to sitback and enjoy the scenery, wecan provide an experienceddriver who will speak French andhave a limited knowledge ofEnglish. He should not beconsidered as a guide toMorocco but will of course havea reasonable knowledge of thecountry. The driver will make hisown sleeping and eatingarrangements at each place andthe additional cost of having adriver is detailed in the price listinsert. By having a driver, you arestill liable for fuel costs.

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THE BEST OF MOROCCOGENERAL INFORMATION

Included in the holiday price (see price insert or our website)Return scheduled flights with RoyalAir Maroc or British Airways fromHeathrow, Manchester or Gatwickin economy class. (Club Classavailable with the appropriatesupplement).

Airport/Hotel/Airport transfers(unless car hire has been arrangedor otherwise stated).

Accommodation and meals asdescribed. Hotel service chargesand local taxes.

All airport charges and taxes.

Not included in holiday costTransport to/from UK airports.

Any surcharges (fuel, currency orGovernment action) levied as aresult of any increase in costsoutside our control.

Travel insurance which is optionalbut strongly recommended (see price insert or our website for premiums).

Child ReductionsInfants under 2 years of age on thedate of travel will be charged anominal fee of £50 for the air fare(no seat is allocated). Most hotelsmake no charge for cots, and foodshould be paid direct to the hotels.Children aged 2-12 years qualify fora reduction when sharing a roomwith 2 adults. Children under 12 notsharing with 2 adults are not eligiblefor any hotel reduction but do get areduction on the air-fare.

Hotel ClassificationGrading of hotels in Morocco canbe confusing. Moroccan standardsor ratings should not be comparedwith those of other countries. Hotel

General information

classification is the soleresponsibility of the Moroccanauthorities and bears no relation tothe prices we have negotiatedindividually with hotels. Theauthorities can change a hotelgrading without notice. There aredifferences between the standardsof different hotels of the samegrade and very few of the riads aregraded. Riads, maisons d’hotesand boutique hotels are not graded.Pools are heated periodically and atthe discretion of hotels, subject to weather conditions.

Hotel AccommodationIt is very important to rememberthat descriptions of hotel rooms inthis brochure apply to standard twinor double-bedded rooms. Singlerooms are usually a standard twinroom for sole occupancy. Theallocation of rooms is at thediscretion of the hotel. Requests forspecific rooms or positions withinan hotel cannot be guaranteedalthough every effort will be madeby Best of Morocco and the hotelto comply with your requests.

If you have ANY complaints aboutANY of the hotels in which you stay,you should bring these to theattention of the hotel managementimmediately so that the problemcan be resolved without delay. Ifyou encounter a problem andmention it to the Reception orManager and nothing is done aboutit, then we suggest you put it inwriting to them and send a copy tous on your return which will enableus to deal with it on your behalf.Dress in almost all hotels is informal.

SuitesMany hotels offer suites at a varietyof supplements. It should be noted,however, that the term ‘suite’ isoften used quite loosely in Morocco

and does not necessarily denotewhat is conventionally accepted asa suite with separate bedroom andsitting room. The terms ‘Royal’,‘Ambassador’ or ‘Pasha’ are oftenbandied about and should notnecessarily lead you to think thatthese suites will have two rooms, asitting room, terrace and butler -they may simply be larger than thestandard rooms.

Hotel FacilitiesMany hotels list air-conditioning asa feature, but Morocco has anenergy conservation programme,so you may find this facility onlyfunctions at certain times of theday/night, and on rare occasions, isshut off completely - this is morelikely in the south of Morocco wherepower cuts occur from time to time.

It should be noted that some hotelfacilities, as described in thisbrochure, may, at certain times andat short notice, not function fully.This may be due to many reasonse.g. a pool being emptied andcleaned. These decisions are partof normal hotel running and are atthe discretion of the hotelmanagement. If, however, we aremade aware of any closure or ofany other alterations to the hoteldescription, we will pass this on toyou as soon as we can, though it israre for hotels to give tour operatorsadvance notice of works orchanges within the hotels.

Neither the hotels used nor TheBest of Morocco acceptresponsibility for anything outsidetheir private grounds e.g. noise orconstruction work near an hotel orcalls to prayer five times a day/nightfrom Mosques. Most hotels arewithin earshot of a Mosque -prayers start at sunrise. All rooms at

all hotels featured in this brochurehave private bathrooms withshower and/or bath and w.c.

Heated swimming poolsSome hotels claim to heat theirpools during the winter months.However, what they call ‘heated’and what we call ‘heated’ may notbe commensurate and Best ofMorocco accepts no responsibilityfor the definition of ‘heated’ nor thedistinction of winter months.

Agents/RepresentativesUnlike large mass tour operators,our clients are not pestered by dailyvisits from reps selling excursions,car hire etc. We have our own officein Marrakech which can becontacted for help and advice andin case of a problem by clients whoare not staying in Marrakech. Theirphone number will be supplied withyour tickets. Otherwise, yourcontact is through the hotel whomay also provide pre-arrangedtransfers. Most of the small places,especially in remoter areas and inthe south, do not havelocal agents.

Travel DocumentsAbout two weeks prior to yourdeparture, we will send youcomplete travel documentation i.e.flight tickets (e-tickets for BA),transfer and hotel vouchers,itinerary with hotel and agents faxand phone numbers, luggagelabels, etc and our comprehensiveessential Travel Information booklet.

Alterations/Cancellations to HolidaysIf you need to alter your reservationafter it has been confirmed andinvoiced, an amendment fee of £50per booking will be charged foritineraries of up to 3 hotels,

thereafter £25 per additional hotel. Iffor any reason you have to cancelyour holiday (see our BookingConditions for cancellation scale ofcharges) travel insurance, undercertain conditions, will protect yourdeposit or charges levied as a result(only available to residents of the UK).

Itinerary Changes Whilst in MoroccoShould you decide to deviate fromyour planned itinerary after yourarrival in Morocco for whateverreason, any resulting costs must bepaid direct to those providing theadditional or alternative servicesprior to your departure fromMorocco. Our office in Marrakech isnot authorised to make refunds.Any claims or requests for refundsmust be made through our office inEngland on your return.

ANY UNUSED PRE-BOOKEDACCOMMODATION, SERVICESOR FLIGHTS ARE NOTREFUNDABLE irrespective of whatany receptionist at hotels may tell you.

Passport/Visa/Health RequirementsA full British/E.E.C. 10 yearpassport is necessary with aminimum of 6 months validity. Atthe time of printing, no visas orvaccinations are required for entryinto Morocco. Non-British nationalsshould contact the MoroccanEmbassy, Visa section in Londonon: 0207-581-5001

CurrencyBy law you are not allowed toimport or export MoroccanDirhams. Travellers cheques orcurrency may be exchanged at theBureau de Change at the airport onarrival, at a bank or at your hotel.

Always keep the exchange receiptform of each transaction as it will berequired when converting Dirhamsback into hard currency whenleaving Morocco. Almost all hotelsnormally exchange money at thesame rate as banks and do notcharge a commission. However, donot expect a small hotel to change£250 without prior notice.

Credit CardsMost hotels and reputable shopswill accept major credit cards, i.e.MASTERCARD, VISA, AMERICANEXPRESS and DINERS CLUB.Even in the markets when buyingsuch things as carpets, leather orany other major items, certain cardswill be accepted. SWITCH andother cards are less widelyaccepted. Some banks in largetowns and major airports now haveATM (hole in the wall facility) to cashmoney day or night.

RememberWhenever you travel abroad, theway of life and the local customsare naturally different and, for manypeople, this is all part of theexcitement. So please do notbe too hasty in condemning a littleslow service or the occasional coolmeal in restaurants. Take people asyou find them, not as you wouldlike them to be. In Moroccoespecially, spare a thought for thereligious customs and sensitivities.

Website/Brochure AccuracyWe have taken great care to ensurethat the information contained inthis brochure is correct. However,we must point out that sometimes,particularly early or late in theseason, some hotel and resortfacilities may not operate.Unfortunately such events arebeyond our control.All holidays are

subject to the terms and conditionsas set out in our BookingConditions whether you havesigned the booking form or not.

Your SecurityTHE BEST OF MOROCCO LTD. is fully bonded and holdsan Air Travel Organisers Licence (A.T.O.L. No.2640). This means that yourholiday is fully protected andcomplies with the C.A.A.’s stringentand high financial standards. If youwould like to receive a copy of theC.A.A.’s “If It Hasn’t Got An Atol, Don’t BookIt At All” leaflet, let us know orphone the CAA on +44 207 8325620 - and if requested, they willalso reconfirm our bonding status.

In the unlikely event of ourinsolvency, the CAA will ensure thatyou are not stranded abroad andwill arrange to refund any moneyyou have paid to us for an advancebooking. For further information,visit the ATOL website atwww.atol.org.uk.

Moroccan National Tourist OfficeWe should like tothank the MNTO forall their kind help and support inprojecting and recommending TheBest of Morocco to members ofthe public. They are very helpful andcan be contacted for detailedinformation, maps and dates of themany festivals held in Morocco at205 Regent Street, London W1R 7DE. Tel: 0207 437 0073.

The Best of Morocco Limited

38 Market Place, Chippenham,

Wiltshire SN15 3HT

Tel: +44 (0)845 026 4588

Fax: +44 (0)845 026 4577

E-Mail: [email protected]

Web site: www.realmorocco.com

CALL TO TALK THROUGH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS ON 0845 026 4588GENERAL INFORMATION

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