Our list of the best hotels outside Marrakech includes everything from traditional guesthouses to remote desert camps to palaces, both modern and ancient. And these hotels make perfect bases for discovering a less touristy Morocco, and for experiencing some of Morocco's traditional hospitality.
Marrakech is definitely a headline destination, but beyond the wonders of this amazing 'Red City' - where you can now stay in ultimate, modern, five star luxury within the walls of the thousand year old medina - is the rest of magical Morocco.
There's the epic sweep of the desert, the incredibly photogenic Atlas Mountains promising adventures, the wonderfully traditional desert oases and Berber villages, the spectacular coastlines, bewildering marketplaces in ancient trading towns, and plenty of historic and cultural highlights to discover for yourself.
But if you're looking for inspiration and you're interested in the kind of Moroccan experiences you might find, rather than the destinations themselves, then read on for our list of the 10 Best Hotels in Morocco - Outside Marakech!
Dar Ahlam is a traditional Ouarzazate Kasbah, transformed into a luxury retreat. Sumptuous suites and private villas provide the comfortable sleeping arrangements, while the hammam and giant pool will help bring you back to life after time in the desert. Wow. In a Wow setting.
Dar L'Oussia is situated within the old ramparts of Essaouira. As well as the historic location these 23 rooms, and fours suites, ooze heritage, from the four poster beds to the art, to the wonderful inside courtyards and romantic balconies overlooking them.
Traditional and comfortable, the Kasbah Bab Ourika is eco-friendly, with a Berber feel. Traditional 'rammed earth' walls surround rose-filled courtyards and there's a gorgeous terrace and pool. Plus there's plenty to do in the staggeringly beautiful surrounding countryside.
Gorgeous Berber castle, Kasbah Angour is the Moroccan equivalent of a country house hotel, with 25 rooms, two suites and a decent restaurant. The views over the High Atlas foothills are spectacular, there's a beautiful garden and a huge swimming pool.
Dar Adrar is a simple guesthouse within the Toubkal National Park, but still only an hours drive from Marrakech. In a lovely little Berber village with breathtaking views of the mountains, this is the kind of place where the hot water may not always come on demand, but the grand breakfasts and excellent tagines will make up for it.
The Domaine de la Roseraie is a rural paradise in the foothills of the High Atlas. It's surrounded by wonderful trekking country, but it's also a great place to unwind. The altitude, 1000 meters above sea level, means it's cool in summer, and tucked away in a valley, it's also mild in winter.
If you love the idea of staying in a riad, try Villa de l'O, an 18th Century boutique version, just minutes from the beach, souks and golf courses of Essaouira. As well as being a romantic blend of traditional and colonial decor, this villa has wonderful sea views from the rooftop terrace, which also overlooks the old town's battlements.
Dar Liouba used to be an Imam's residence in Essaouira, and its seven comfortable, sunny, whitewashed rooms can all be booked together.
High Atlas (Km 60 Taroudant road Ouirgane Valley)
Traditional hotel in the foothills of the Atlas mountains. Large, unpretentious bedrooms with traditional Moroccan features set scattered through exotic gardens. Lovely swimming pool and seasonal cooking. A spa and hammam to completely unwind in. Ideal for nature lovers.
Essaouira
A fabulous 18th century boutique riad in a perfect location - minutes from the beach and the golf course. Sand stone columns, sculpted woods, and beautiful fabrics blend oriental tradition and western luxury. A lovely roof terrace has stunning coastal views. A luxurious treat.
High Atlas (Marrakech)
Gorgeous Berber castle in foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Superb panoramic views, suites with traditional Moroccan materials and locally made furniture. Beautiful gardens, a large swimming pool and wonderful local excursions. A relaxing spot to recoup in after a day of activity.
High Atlas
A stunning escape in the foothills of the Atlas mountains less than an hour from Marrakech. With staggering mountain views - this is the perfect place for enthusiastic trekkers as well as those who want to relax.
High Atlas (Imlil)
A simple and charmingly rustic guesthouse perched in the High Atlas mountains above Imlil.
Ouarzazate
Traditional kasbah in Skoura's Palmeraie, four hours from Marrakech, transformed into a luxury and spoiling retreat. 14 sumptuous suites & villas, plus hammam, large pool & plenty of activities including quad safaris or hiking. Tailor made excursions including private dining under the desert stars.
Essaouira
A lovely creamy clad guesthouse, formerly an Imam's residence. Sunny rooms have white washed walls, comfortable beds, and splashes of colour. Cosy living areas have fireplaces and there's a fabulous roof top terrace. Excellent value, available for exclusive use.
Essaouira
A beautiful boutique riad in the old ramparts. It oozes heritage and traditional romance. Sunny rooms and suites all in creams with four poster beds, artworks, and balconies onto the inner courtyards. Fantastic roof top terrace and great Moroccan restaurant. A great value spot for couples.
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