SPOTLIGHT: BERBER LODGE
Some places are made for exploring. Others are made for doing absolutely nothing at all. Berber Lodge offers the best of both worlds. There is another side to Marrakech, beyond the lively souks, the winding medina streets and the heady buzz of the city. About 30 minutes away, tucked among ancient olive trees with the Atlas Mountains rising in the distance, Berber Lodge feels like a little secret worth knowing about. This is not the kind of place that needs to shout about luxury. Instead, it whispers it through earthy textures, thoughtful design and a beautifully understated sense of place. Inspired by traditional Berber architecture, the lodge is a collection of intimate, earthy buildings that feel wonderfully connected to the landscape around them.
What makes it so appealing is that nothing feels overly polished or predictable. Handmade tiles, rattan furniture and traditional Berber chests sit comfortably alongside vintage design finds, giving the spaces the warmth and personality of a much-loved family home. The result is a kind of barefoot sophistication: design-led, but never precious; luxurious, but without any unnecessary fuss.
There is something particularly lovely about the idea of having Marrakech within easy reach, while being able to retreat to this much quieter corner of the countryside at the end of the day. It is the sort of place that invites you to leave your plans a little looser, slow down over breakfast and rediscover the pleasure of having nowhere else to be.
The rooms
With just eleven rooms, Berber Lodge has a wonderfully intimate feel. Each space embraces the property's natural palette and relaxed aesthetic, with details such as private terraces, fireplaces and garden access in selected rooms. Some offer views towards the Atlas Mountains, adding another layer of beauty to an already special setting.
Rather than feeling like a conventional hotel room, the lodges are designed to feel like private little hideaways. Expect character over uniformity, tactile materials over glossy finishes and an atmosphere that encourages you to settle in rather than rush out.
Why We Love It
Berber Lodge is a reminder that the most memorable stays are not always the grandest or the most extravagant. Sometimes, it is the atmosphere that stays with you: the contrast between the red earth and the greenery, the simplicity of the architecture, the quietness of the gardens and the feeling of being somewhere that has its own distinct identity. It is a particularly lovely choice for couples, design enthusiasts and anyone looking to combine a few days discovering Marrakech with a more restorative countryside escape.
The Details
Location: Douar Oumnes, Tamesloth, outside Marrakech, Morocco.
Getting there: Approximately 30 minutes from Marrakech city and around 25 minutes from Marrakech Menara Airport, depending on traffic.
Best for: Design-conscious travellers, romantic escapes, poolside afternoons and anyone who appreciates understated boutique luxury.
Don't miss: The architecture, the ancient olive grove and the chance to experience a quieter side of Morocco beyond the city
