The Atlas Mountains Luxury Kasbah Lodges and Berber Valleys

The High Atlas form a wall of peaks south of Marrakech, and within an hour the palm groves give way to walnut terraces, rushing rivers and earth-colored Amazigh (Berber) villages clinging to the slopes. Mount Toubkal, at 13,671 feet, is the highest summit in North Africa, and the valleys around Imlil, Asni, Ouirgane and Ourika are laced with mule paths that make for superb walking.

The region's luxury lodges are among the most memorable places to stay in all of Morocco, combining mountain views with spas, pools and Moroccan cooking. Many travelers spend two or three nights here between the city and the Sahara on a Morocco luxury vacation.

Fly into Marrakech, seasonally nonstop from Newark on United or Atlanta on Delta, or nonstop to Casablanca on Royal Air Maroc from New York JFK, Washington, Miami or Los Angeles and connect. Your lodge will arrange a private transfer; the last stretch to some lodges is by foot or mule. Helicopter transfers can be arranged on request; see arriving privately.

Hike with a mountain guide through Imlil's villages, or attempt the two-day climb of Toubkal from April to October. Ride mules to remote hamlets, visit an Amazigh family for tea and bread baked in a clay oven, and explore the waterfalls of the Ourika Valley. In the Agafay desert, ride camels or quad bikes at sunset, and in winter take a scenic drive to Oukaïmeden. For more adventures see desert sports and the outdoors guide.

Villas in the Ourika road and Atlas foothills appeal to buyers who want cool summers within easy reach of Marrakech. See our guide to Morocco Luxury Real Estate.