Located only 20 minutes from Agadir, this traditional mountain Kasbah-fortress is set in the magnificent landscape of the Atlas mountains in the heart of the designated Argan Biosphere Reserve. This authentic and serene ‘ecolodge’ enables guests to slow to the Berber's pace and slowly drift into the lifestyle of this ancient civilization.
Atlas Kasbah is a family-operated ecolodge, cared for by Hassan and Helene who combine an assortment of Berber traditions with select European comforts all within a unique hospitality experiences that embraces cultural sensitivity and an environment-friendly philosophy. The friendly Berber staff are all from the local villages. They have received extensive training enabling the Kasbah to further its commitment to community-based tourism. Both owners hold a Master’s Degree in sustainable development and tourism and Atlas Kasbah has won several sustainable tourism awards including the Morocco’s Ministry of Tourism Responsible Tourism Award.
The 9 intimate rooms have a traditional Berber decor that is reflected in the architectural motif and the use of natural building materials. They all have the comforts that today’s sophisticated traveller has grown to expect including: large comfortable beds, well appointed bathrooms and cosy seating areas. All the rooms boast spectacular views over the High Atlas mountains, the famous Argane Biosphere Reserve and the attractive yet quaint Berber villages. There are also 3 suites if you wish to spoil yourself or the ones you love.
Green Star Rating Results:
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Overall Rating: ★★★★ (4)
Energy Rating: ★★★★★ (5)
Staff Comment -
• Energy efficient light bulbs throughout the Kasbah
• Electricity from renewable energy sources : We have solar panels which heat 80% of the ecolodge
• All water heating from renewable energy sources
• Bioclimatic architecture, all traditional construction materials and architectural motif of the building
• Energy efficient equipment in the kitchen
• Staff and Guests awareness programs
Water Rating: ★★★★ (4)
Staff Comment -
• Adequate information cards in the rooms for the guests on how to save water
• Waste bins in toilets for appropriate waste instead of the toilet.
• Regular checks of the leaks and appropriate action is taken as necessary
• Towel and linen change upon request
• Water-saving devices : Aerators on Taps, Dual Flush-toilets (cisterns of 6 litres maximum per flush)
• Watering plants and garden after sunset
• Chemical-free cleaning of linen and towels
• Chemical-free cleaning of the Kasbah
• Chemical-free cleaning of the Swimming pool
Disposal Rating: ★★★★ (4)
Staff Comment -
• No individually packaged or disposable items
• Recycling of certain materials (plastic,…)
• On-site compost bin for kitchen waste.
• Oil disposal
• Waste separation for plastic.
• No smoking in common areas and all rooms
Protection Rating: ★★★ (3)
Staff Comment -
• Use of local seasonal produce
• Indigenous plants in the gardens
• Promotion of local heritage, crafts and argane products throughout the Kasbah
The location of the Kasbah is absolutely spectacular. It is surrounded by the endemic Argane tree forest, effectively a landscape that can be found no other place on the planet. The exceptional health values of the Argane Tree have become increasingly well-known over the past decade. It is also possible to visit a Feminine Cooperative where women prepare the argane oil with the same techniques that have been used for generations. This experience is just one of many ways in which the Atlas Kasbah maintains its strong ties to the local communities. Most of the staff come from the adjacent villages and much of the organic foods consumed on-site are prepared by local farmers.
