Where to stay in the High Atlas Mountains
The High Atlas Mountains offer some of Morocco’s most spectacular scenery: snow-dusted peaks in winter, wildflowers in spring, and cool mountain air in summer. But choosing where to stay in the High Atlas Mountains can be confusing.
Having visited the High Atlas repeatedly over the past decade, this guide includes some of my personal favourite places to stay, from homestays to luxury boutique hotels. I hope it will help you choose the best spot for your trip.
Overviews of the different regions covered:
Imlil is best for Mount Toubkal hikes and dramatic alpine scenery.
Ouirgane is gentler, greener, and ideal for relaxed walking.
Ourika is the easiest valley to reach from Marrakech and is well-suited to shorter stays.
Where to Stay in Imlil (Best for Hiking & Mount Toubkal)
1.5 hours from Marrakech
Starting point for Toubkal
Higher altitude
Snow in winter
Kasbah du Toubkal
Best for: Hikers, winter stays, mountain views, yoga retreats.
I first visited Kasbah du Toubkal in 2014, and fell in love with the village (Imlil) and the Kasbah’s majestic location within it. The Kasbah was originally home to the Caid, let’s say, chief of the area, perhaps chosen for its elevated views of the village, on one side, and the peaks of Mount Toubkal on the other. It’s a popular choice for hikers and mountain enthusiasts. I recently revisited the Kasbah to see the new additions and renovations following the September 2023 earthquake. It’s amazing what they have created, especially given the logistics! Guests can choose from 17 rooms; all but the Standard Rooms have a bathtub, much appreciated in the Winter months. New additions include an infinity pool, ideal for Summer, new Deluxe Rooms with private covered balconies, and a new main house with a cosy dining area, toasty thanks to underfloor heating and fireplaces. There are several terraces for dining and relaxation, including The Lookout tower, which has 360-degree views of the valley, Imlil, and Mount Toubkal. As well as a yoga room with underfloor heating.
Riad Jnane Imlil
Best for: Hikers, families
A boutique riad on the lower eastern slopes of Imlil, a short walk into the village. Each room is unique; choose from different room categories depending on your budget and style preferences. I love the Chalet Suite style, floor-to-ceiling wood pannelling, large windows, a private balcony, and cosy seating area with a fireplace. They have an outdoor pool; check their policy for suitable swimwear. Cooking classes and hikes can be arranged in-house.
Dar Imlil
Best for: Hikers, adventure travellers
The sister hotel to the Kasbah du Toubkal is located in the village of Imlil. It’s a traditional riad with just 10 rooms. Their terraces offer views up towards Kasbah du Toubkal, with the peaks of Mount Toubkal behind. There is a small outdoor pool (16sqm, not heated). Ensuite Superior Rooms sleep up to 3 people, with tadelakt bathrooms, private balconies, and pretty views. Spacious Deluxe Rooms sleep up to 4 people. There is also a traditional Moroccan hammam for a relaxing hot steam and invigorating scrub.
Douar Samra
Best for: Rustic travellers, digital detox, solo travellers.
A simple mountain home-style guesthouse, highly recommended by industry friends. For those looking for simplicity, community, and views, it offers all that, with no electricity in the main house, meals shared communally, and terraces to take in the surrounding mountain scenery. They also have treehouse suites, which look great for a mountain chalet-type stay.
Kasbah Tamadot
Best for: Luxury travellers, families, pampering, honeymooners
Sir Richard Branson’s award-winning Atlas Mountain retreat. With a range of luxury ensuite accommodation options that allow guests to enjoy the magnificent location, facilities, views, and architecture of the Kasbah. Families and groups of friends looking for all-out luxury, check out the new three-bedroom riads.
Berber Family Lodge
Best for: Home stays, simplicity, small village life
Located on the road between Asni and Imlil, it’s a remote homestay experience. Authentic and humbling. Spectacular views from their central dining room and roof terraces. As the name hints, people are invited to feel a part of the family.
Where to Stay in Ouirgane (Best for Gentle Walking & Relaxation)
Lower altitude (1000m)
Green amidst the olive groves
Warmer in winter
Visiting tiny villages
Less dramatic but more tranquil setting
Ouirgane Ecolodge
Best for: Eco-conscious travellers, relaxation, cultural enthusiasts
I enjoyed my first stay here in September 2024 so much that I went back in 2025 with a friend. The unpretentiousness, the pretty gardens, the pool area, the kind staff, and the delicious tagines. I love the chalet-style interiors of the Family Rooms with private balconies and garden views. Ouirgane Ecolodge is a charming, peaceful guest house surrounded by leafy olive trees, and gentle walks from the door into the Atlas foothills and neighbouring villages.
Best for: Couples, honeymooners, high service-levels, design lovers.
For adults-only. This luxury mountain retreat is where quiet luxury abounds in its private pavilions with pools. Tucked away in the olive groves of the Ouirgane Valley. I visited when it first opened. The rooms are very impressive, some with private pools. Five-star service is matched by five-star prices.
Where to Stay in Ourika Valley (Best for Easy Access from Marrakech)
45 minutes drive from Marrakech
Popular with locals on weekends
Waterfalls & rivers
More developed, visit local markets/ shops
Kasbah Bab Ourika
Best for: Honeymooners, horticulturalists, spa retreats
I stayed several years ago, loved the calmness, location (45 mins drive from Marrakech, in the foothills of the High Atlas), and style: a country retreat paradise. I would recommend Kasbah Bab Ourika for people looking for relaxation, spa facilities, gentle hiking, stylish accommodation, secluded outdoor pools, beautiful gardens, and family room options.
FAQs
Is Imlil a good base for hiking Mount Toubkal?
Yes. Imlil is the main starting point for Mount Toubkal treks and guided hikes.
Which valley is closest to Marrakech?
The Ourika Valley is the closest at around 45 minutes by car.
Can you see snow in the High Atlas Mountains?
Yes, typically between December and February at higher elevations like Imlil and Oukaimeden.
Is the High Atlas safe for tourists?
Yes, when using licensed guides for mountain treks and choosing reputable accommodation.
When is the best time to visit the High Atlas?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) are ideal. Winter (December-March) is best for snow lovers.
Sally Kirby is a UK-born travel writer based in Morocco. She has co-authored Lonely Planet Morocco and DK Eyewitness guidebooks and specialises in Atlas Mountain travel.
For her other Atlas Mountain articles, check out:
Snow in Morocco: Where to Ski, Stay & See Snow
High Atlas Mountains Morocco: Why Visit in 2026 and Complete Travel Guide