Luxury holidays in Atlas Mountains

Modernity isn't a big thing in the mountains south of Marrakech, where Berber culture is strong, and tourism mainly confined to trekkers. Two specific draws are the snaking road south to Taroudannt; and Imlil, Asni and Aremd, the Berber villages en route to the highest peak, the Djebel Toubkal. But sights aren't what the High Atlas is about – it's the views. Almond blossom at Ouirgane; winter snow at Ouïkaimeden; wild nature and traditional villages all year round.

Areas in Atlas Mountains

When to go

There's skiing of a kind in Oukaïmeden in winter, though good snow isn't guaranteed. Trekking is best in spring when the almond blossom is particularly lovely. The cooler temperatures in autumn make this a good time too. High summer is still a good time for the mountains, unless you're intending to climb Mount Toubkal.

Follow us on Instagram

See the world through @mrandmrssmith

view on instagram

Getting there

  • Planes

    Fly into Marrakech with BA, Air France or Royal Air Maroc. EasyJet starts daily flights from Gatwick in July.

  • Automobiles

    This is 4x4 country, and you'll pay up to MAD1,000 a day for a Suzuki or a Mitsubishi, though you're probably better off hiring a mule for the day unless you're used to the dirt roads. The best way to get out to the High Atlas is in one of the big Merc 'grands taxis'.

  • Taxis

    A 'grand taxi' will take up to six – explain first if you don't want to share with other parties. Establish a price for your trip before you set off.