THE FACTS ABOUT KASBAH TAMADOT, MARRAKECH

Morocco Marrakech

Richard Branson's Moroccan retreat lies high up in the Atlas Mountains near the Berber village of Asni. Owned by an Italian-American art dealer, the contents of the property fell to Branson upon purchase, including a warehouse stuffed with treasures. The renovation took some time, and the Kasbah finally opened to guests in March 2005. Branson made a point of employing staff from Asni, the local Berber village, which is undoubtedly his master-stroke: they are unfailingly friendly, charming and enthusiastic about the Kasbah, which has brought employment and better schooling to the area. There are 18 rooms and suites; varying in size, all have a mix of carved Indian doors, Indonesian statues, elaborate mosaics, and ornate silver chairs and sofas. There are mini Bose stereos and a good range of cds to choose from, comfortable Moroccan slippers, electric blankets on all beds and torches and adaptors are provided. Plasma TVs and DVD players can be brought to the rooms. The Aman Suite has a huge terrace and its own pool. A gorgeous infinity-edged pool takes centre stage, with a poolside restaurant attached, and a glorious view of the green river-capped valley and snow-capped peaks. The spa with traditional hammam and sauna also has a large indoor pool, and activities include ballooning, tennis and one or two-hour mule mountain treks. The fine dining restaurant serves Moroccan and European food, masterminded by head chef Jean Mundell-Murphy, who was poached from Necker Island. See our guide to Marrakech Visit www.virginlimitededition.com