Marrakech, Morocco – October 24, 2024 – Nestled amidst the majestic High Atlas Mountains, Kasbah Tamadot, Sir Richard Branson’s renowned Moroccan escape, has triumphantly reopened its doors after a year of meticulous restoration. The earthquake that struck the region last year may have caused temporary closure, but it could not dampen the spirit of hospitality that defines Kasbah Tamadot.
Following a year of rebuilding, the Kasbah emerges not just restored, but significantly enhanced. Guests can now experience the warmth of Berber hospitality in 42 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, an increase from the original 28. This expansion includes the much-anticipated addition of six brand new Riads.
These stunning, three-bedroom Riads offer a unique blend of tradition and contemporary style. Each boasts its own private bathroom, a lounge area, a terrace, and the showstopper – a rooftop tented suite complete with a hot tub, providing breathtaking views and a truly modern take on the classic Riad experience. A private pool area adds to the exclusivity, while guests can still enjoy all the renowned amenities of the main hotel, from the infinity pool with panoramic mountain vistas to pampering spa treatments and authentic Moroccan cooking classes.
“It was heartbreaking to witness the earthquake’s devastation,” shared Sir Richard Branson, Founder of the Virgin Group. “But even amidst the hardship, the resilience and warmth of the Berber people shone through. We pledged to rebuild Kasbah Tamadot better than ever before, and thanks to the incredible team behind this project, we’ve achieved that goal.”
The reopening marks a joyous occasion not just for the hotel, but for the surrounding Berber communities. Kasbah Tamadot employs a 100% Moroccan workforce, and the aftermath of the earthquake saw a powerful display of solidarity. The hotel, alongside its charitable arm, The Eve Branson Foundation, raised a staggering £1 million through the Earthquake Emergency Relief Fund. Importantly, all staff remained employed throughout the restoration process, and the Berber Tents continued to welcome guests, supporting tourism and relief efforts in the region.
David Redouane Assabbab, General Manager of Kasbah Tamadot, expressed his delight: “Kasbah Tamadot is deeply woven into the fabric of the High Atlas Mountains and its Berber communities. We are thrilled to reopen our doors fully and welcome back past, present, and future guests. We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support we received from our guests and donors who contributed to the Eve Branson Foundation’s relief efforts, allowing the local communities to rebuild their lives.”
With bookings already filling up, Kasbah Tamadot is poised for a vibrant future. The new Riads offer an exciting addition to the existing accommodation options, including the iconic and luxurious Berber Tents. Guests can now book their stay at Kasbah Tamadot, with prices starting from MAD 45,100 for a three-bedroom Riad on a B&B basis.