In the heart of Morocco’s ancient ranges, a digital detox awaits in the High Atlas Mountains. Here, ancient traditions and breathtaking landscapes await those seeking to unplug from the digital world.
Just an hour from Marrakech, the High Atlas Mountains offer the perfect escape from our increasingly connected lives.
The High Atlas mountain range is a vast and ancient geological formation in Morocco, stretching over 350 km.
It is part of the Atlas Mountains system, which spans across several countries in North Africa.
The High Atlas peaks reach elevations of over 4,000 meters, with Jbel Toubkal being the highest point at 4,167 meters.
The range is composed primarily of 'limestone and schist rocks' , formed during the 'Paleozoic Era' .
Its unique geology has created a diverse landscape, featuring valleys, gorges, and summits.
We’ve all been there – a destination where we know we’ll feel at home, even if we’ve never visited before. For me, that place has always been Marrakech. But, as it turns out, I was wrong about the High Atlas Mountains. A chance encounter with travel-savvy friends convinced me to add this majestic range to my itinerary, and what a discovery it turned out to be.
Located in western Morocco, Marrakech is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and bustling souks.
The city's old medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features intricate riads, majestic mosques, and colorful markets selling traditional crafts and spices.
Visitors can explore the Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the Majorelle Garden, designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle.
Marrakech is also famous for its cuisine, blending Arab, Berber, and French influences.
The ‘perfect escape’ from our increasingly connected lives is found in the High Atlas Mountains, located just an hour from Marrakech.
Located just an hour from Marrakech, the High Atlas Mountains offer a tranquil respite from the bustling streets of the former imperial city. The mountains’ rugged beauty, with their heft separating the Sahara Desert from the Mediterranean Sea, create a natural barrier that shields us from the world.
We decided to spend a few days in the mountains, post-Marrakech, and what an excellent decision it was. Our journey began with a scenic drive into the mountains, where we left our car behind and walked into a Berber village. The warm hospitality of our guide’s family friends welcomed us into their home, where we learned about medicinal plants, herbs, and flowers that serve as remedies in Berber culture.
Our visit to the High Atlas Mountains was an immersive experience from start to finish. We began by learning how to make flatbread in a traditional clay oven and donned traditional Berber headwraps and tunics (or djellaba). The highlight of our lunch was ‘chicken tagine, chopped tomato salad, and fresh fruit sprinkled with cinnamon’.
After lunch, we explored the grounds of Kasbah Tamadot, perhaps the most famous property in the High Atlas Mountains. This regal main building is visible from afar, but its impressive acreage – a true green oasis in the mountains – was not until we wandered the grounds that we discovered. The hotel’s communal spaces, including an expansive pool and hot tub, offered the perfect retreat after our hike.
Located in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, Kasbah Tamadot is a luxury resort that offers breathtaking views and authentic 'Berber culture.'
The kasbah, meaning 'fortress' in Arabic, was originally built as a private villa in the 1940s but has since been restored to its former glory.
With 28 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with local textiles and artwork, Kasbah Tamadot provides a serene retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.
Our next morning’s activity was a nearly daylong hike into the mountains. We stopped at the Eve Branson Foundation, which teaches local women how to embroider, weave, and make rugs, some of which are sold by the hotel. The foundation also includes a small shop where we picked up some stunning table runners.
From there, we drove to the Ouirgane Valley, known as the Colorado of Morocco for its striking red rocks and far-reaching vistas. Our trek wove through serene juniper tree forests and small villages, offering breathtaking views that seemed even more expansive with each step.
As I wandered the property’s manicured paths on our final morning, I realized I’d barely looked at my phone since arriving. The calming surroundings had occupied me, and it was then that I understood the value of the element of surprise in travel. Our visit to the High Atlas Mountains reminded us that even the most careful planners can benefit from unplugging and embracing the unknown.
Our journey to a digital detox in the High Atlas Mountains left an indelible mark on our lives. If you’re looking for a destination where you can unplug and reconnect with nature, this might just be your new favorite spot.
- observer.com | In Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, a Chance to Disconnect
