Ecolodge Le Douar Berbère, Ourika Valley — Hotel in caïdat de Ghmate

Stayed for 3 nights and would highly recommend as a way to experience an authentic yet luxurious Moroccan stay. Mostafa has put great attention to detail in all aspects of a visit to Le Douar, which is truly a project of love for him. His desire is for guests to disconnect from their hustle and bustle and to enjoy nature and connect locally. Noel is an amazing cook, and both Noel and Mostafa are incredibly attentive to the needs of guests. Mostafa is eager to share his wealth of knowledge, and provided us with very detailed self-guided trips during our stay, which is exactly what we wanted. He was clear about what areas would be touristy, and where to go and what to do to get off the beaten path. We spent a day on a driving loop through the beautiful Atlas Mountains, and another hiking directly from Le Douar through Berbere villages. There are other places to eat in the area, ranging from local spots to fancy hotels, and we ate out for lunches and stayed in for dinners as we enjoyed chatting with Mostafa and the incredible view. Hamman and star gazing were...

I had the most aggressive and hostile experience at this retreat from the host Mustafa who became so angry I thought he was going to be violent. Do not stay here.||||After asking for 2 plates and 2 forks to eat our take away pizza dinner in the one common area I questioned why there was a fee. We had dined in the overpriced 70 US for 2 people dinner the previous 2 nights (usually costing a fraction of that at Kasbah Bab Ourika). So it was not the cost but Mustafa's behaviour of becoming so angry that was inappropriate. I felt threatened and afraid. ||||When I asked Mustafa to please walk away for 20 mins to calm down he refused. I never raised my voice but was somewhat trapped by him within the seating arrangement. Finally, his lovely co-worker Nawail was able to stand in front of him while he was screaming at me to try and calm him down. I was then able to get away.||||This is unacceptable behaviour. ||||Do not stay here if the owners still have Mustafa as their host. ||||This is a beautiful spot ruined by...

If you're looking for stunning views and tranquillity, le douar berbere in the heart of the Ourika valley is the perfect escape. Just an easy hour's transfer from Marrakech - either arranged with the help of Mostafa or in your own car - the journey is smooth.

One thing you must do here is eat in the evening. The food is an unforgettable experience, like your best grandmother's cooking, but with the rich flavours of Moroccan spices and fresh local produce. It wraps you in warmth and comfort, making it the perfect end to your day before falling into a peaceful sleep.

The stunning views of the valley from the rooms are breathtaking and the grounds offer plenty of cosy spots to relax and unwind, whether you want to read, chill or simply take in the beauty of the landscape.

You can easily explore the area with some light walking or use it as a base for day trips around the valley. The atmosphere is peaceful and it's a great place to recharge your batteries, take in the fresh air and...