8/10 Good
Mark, London, UK
4 Jan 2012
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Casbah des Artes.Authentic experience in Agdz.
Firstly this is not a Hotel providing normal tourist facilities,which may be a surprise to those
who book online.It is a private Casbah building which has been beautifully restored over 6 years and is still not complete.It feels like a palace.A handful of simple but attractive rooms are available for rental.There is no hot water or heating,though the latter is not a problem due to the original thick mud walls(painted)providing insulation.
Exploring the building on a tour with the owner is a delight with spectacular views over the Palmerie from the towers and ramparts.The breakfast and dinner were some of the best meals I had in Morocco.If you're lucky the owner might have some wine.The Casbah is cold at night.
Finding the Casbah is a little tricky since it is newly opened and not familiar to the locals.It is however close to the other tourist accomodation in the old town(eg.Blue Casbah).It is a long walk from the town centre(get a petit taxi for 5 dirham).Call the owner in advance of arrival.He was not expecting me and the thick casbah gates were locked!.
It is an ideal place for a group of friends to stay and use as a base.Single travellers may feel isolated.There is only one person to cook and serve food.As long as you dont expect Hotel comforts and hot water this is a wonderful unique Moroccan experience which will make you feel like you have your own Casbah.It would make a terrific movie location.