Stylish fort-castle
Situated in an impressive restored fort, this boutique hotel is well located in the Palmeraie, about 15 minutes drive (8km) from the old Medina of Marrakech. Set in its own gardens, the Kasbah enjoys views out to the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains and the nearby Berber villages. The Palmeraie is a green oasis of palms and olive trees along a sandy road, offering a tranquil setting after the bustle of the city. Visitors to Marrakech will enjoy a visit to the Medina, along with all the attractions and entertainment in the central Jemaa el Fna Square. The Koutoubia Mosque with its decorative minaret and the many museums are worth visiting along with the crowded souk. Marrakech airport is just 12km from this luxury hotel.
Set within the thick defensive walls of a former fortress the Kasbah Agafay is a unique boutique hotel in Marrakech’s Palmeraie. The persistence of Abel Damoussi in purchasing the Kasbah from its 36 owners was the start of a Herculean task to restore the Kasbah and convert it into a luxury resort, now a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group. The 16 traditional rooms and suites are arranged around the five courtyards in Moroccan riad-style. Their traditional Moroccan décor and furniture are lightened with Moroccan crafts in a more colourful and contemporary style. The ceilings have beautifully decorated beams, known as ‘tatoui’ and verses of the Quran are carved above the original fireplaces. A further 4 Caidale tents offer luxury accommodation in more local style, yet behind the canvas flaps are four-poster beds, huge fully plumbed bathrooms, heating, air-conditioning and even telephones. Nothing is quite as it seems. Berber tent poles are incorporated into the four poster beds, wooden marriage contacts are used as curtain tie-backs, tent pegs adorn mirror frames, antique keys become toilet paper holders and the bath rack is a former washboard! The private terraced gardens make these luxury tents a romantic choice.
The public salon area has ample comfortable seating for reading, relaxing and socializing and the magnificent carved doors were rescued from Places in Fez. The Atlas room has stunning views of the Atlas Mountains and the outdoor pool and terrace invite guests to linger a while in the sun. Luxury hotel amenities include a fully equipped spa, a yoga room and an authentic Hammam. Kasbah Agafay also has an excellent restaurant where local chefs create delicious international and Moroccan fare, and offer cookery lessons outdoors in the herb garden!
For those who want to say they have stayed in a real castle, the Kasbah Agafay is one of the most unusual and individual boutique hotels in Marrakech. It is also a unique location to hold a wedding or host a family gathering.
