First thanks to Laurence for the excellent instructions over the phone before we left Essaouira. It enabled us to drive along some very small roads so that we'd visited the authentic Morocco even before getting here. Had we depended on the Michelin map I think we'd have struggled!||The Dar at present seems to be just two villas, well away from each other, built in Moroccan style (see photo) and with masses of space, a small kitchen (not required, the cooking here is really excellent), a shower room with hot water, separate toilet and comfortable beds (there were two bedrooms in our lodgings).||In front of our villa was an open field being planted with shrubs and then wonderful views to the snow capped mountains (see photo).||Laurence gave us a warm welcome and it was obvious that she genuinely wants her guests to have a good time, without ever trying to sell them hammam, massage or treks. So one feels relaxed and independent, knowing that if anything is required then Laurence is there to help.||As mentioned above food was absolutely excellent and quantities served generous. The meals were brought to our villa, enabling intimate dinners which in spring and summer could be outside with the mountains as backdrop.||We are not walkers, more strollers, but we ambled quite a few kilometres during our stay. The area has many paths and we just headed off randomly. Since there is a dry river bed less than 500 metres from the Dar and there is a range of hills just behind the Dar, it was impossible to get lost. When we did stray too far we just followed the river bed back to base.||The few people we met during our walks were very friendly, in spite of almost zero possibility of conversation. ||Points to improve: on our arrival the staff watched as we struggled with our suitcases without offering to help. The mealtimes were a bit haphazard. We'd ask for dinner at 8pm and at 6.20 it was announced that "dinner is ready" ( it was kept hot and we ate at 7). Some variety in breakfast fare would be welcome. ||The heating in our villa was by butane gas mobile heaters; efficient but not completely odourless. Since heating is rarely necessary this is a very minor point. The other villa had a fireplace.||Biggest positives: you're completely off the tourist track, next to a small village. Views are great, you can walk anywhere, everyone is friendly and the...
Read moreThis is such a lovely and relaxing place! Dar Achorafa is located in a very quiet area, with no other tourists around, quite a contrast with the hustle and bustle of Marrakech which we experienced the days before. ||||The living room of our villa was really huge. The villa had a nice terrace as well and is just a few steps from the swimming pool. The manager Laurence provided us with useful information and tips about the area, and provided hand-drawn maps of possible walks in the surroundings.||||We opted for half-board which turned out to be an excellent choice as the meals we had were always delicious and plentiful and they were different every day. Laurence's team was professional and friendly. Delicious Moroccan grey and red wine is available upon request.||||We enjoyed the private hammam which is available on-site - combining cleansing and relaxation in the same experience. The black soap used here is enriched with eucalyptus, giving it a refreshing touch. Fatima will come and help you with the body scrubbing, and you can stay as long in the hammam as you wish.||||We booked a private guide (Oumar) through Dar Achorafa for a very nice day tour, hiking in the surrounding berber villages. We can recommend this tour, as it enables you to see places and things and you wouldn't even notice without a guide and to hear the stories from someone who has lived in the area for so many years. We visited a village with traditional pottery makers where we learnt how to make clay tajine pots. We had a delicious lunch with Oumar's friendly family. We also witnessed how Oumar's mother bakes traditional bread in a clay oven and how lemons are...
Read moreA group of 16 girls (family and friends) stayed here for one week to kick off a 40th birthday. The drive from the airport to the villas was a bit hair-raising but once we arrived we were met by our hosts. We immediately had Moroccan tea and was completely refreshed. The group took over both of the villas and the family even gave up some personal accommodation for the two older ladies in our group. Even though the accommodation was basic and you washed with a bucket from the shower to preserve water due to a dry summer, we had everything we needed.||On site there is a spa facility where the hosts provide a hammam (Moroccan body scrub) and if you want a massage the therapist comes from Marrakech. ||The food was basic but filling: breakfast of Moroccan crepe, yoghurt, bread and jams and evening meal of a different tangine each night. ||The local rosé wine was excellent tasting and reasonable price but I would avoid ordering beer as the host must travel into Marrakech which is an hour away to purchase.||There are options of camel rides, visits to markets etc but you do have to travel an hour or so to get to any of them. ||The pool area and grounds were delightful and there was plenty of shade which was needed due to the daily heat.||No wifi no cell coverage (well for me anyways) no computers complete getaway. For a techie always on girl like me it was a total tech detox.||So if you want a remote hideaway to completely relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life I would wholly ...
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