Illustrative photo of the region — the property's own gallery is on the booking page.

Richard Branson's Atlas retreat — infinity pool over the valley, Berber tents, impeccable service.

Kasbah Tamadot is the Atlas at its most indulgent: Richard Branson's mountain retreat above the Asni valley, where an infinity pool hangs over terraced gardens and the High Atlas fills every window. Rooms in the old kasbah are romantic; the Berber-style tented suites, with fireplaces and private terraces, are the ones people cross the world for.

The hotel works closely with the surrounding villages, and treks, mule rides and visits are easy to arrange. It is a splurge by any standard — but as a two- or three-night exhale after the medina, very little on the continent touches it.

Why we picked it

• Infinity pool suspended over the Asni valley
• Berber-style tented suites with private terraces
• Service and food at international five-star level