20 enchantingtravels.com/morocco ountains of orocco Morocco is a fascinating fusion of eastern and western cultures, illuminated through its architecture, food and landscapes. Numerous oases are found in the High Atlas Mountains, a region rich with legend and folklore. Away from the narrow labyrinthine alleyways and bustling, colorful souks of the city of Marrakech, it’s time to head to the mountains and enter a nomadic dream. BERBER ORIGINS The Berber community is native to North Africa. They have lived here for thousands of years, even during prehistoric times, as indicated by many cave paintings. Over the centuries, the Berber people managed to stave off Roman, Arab and French invaders. Berber culture has been steadfastly preserved through oral storytelling and song. In Berber mountain villages, you may be lucky to hear the rhythmic beat of drums and flutes, and to witness everyone dancing, sometimes for rituals meant to ward off evil spirits. Traditional Berber belief systems are quite literally woven into daily life. Berber women weave rugs, and use natural plant dyes to express distinctive simple geometric designs. These are often a visual representation of the many stories passed from one generation to the next. Traditionally, the Berber people were merchants who would transport items through the great mountains and valleys, across the Sahara Desert to North Morocco. But today, they have a semi-nomadic lifestyle focused on livestock farming. The Berber people have always been experts at taming ungulates, namely camels, horses and donkeys. Their rich heritage celebrates a local martial art on horseback. Mountain air breathes creativity, and you will find that the Berber people are talented artisans. Various Berber groups have their own specialist crafts, be it handmade babouches (slippers), kaftans (tunics) or the making of silver jewelry. NomadLiving D I S C O V E R N E W W O R L D S 21 GO SLOW RUSTIC REVIVAL Kasbah du Toubkal is a hilltop walled fortress hotel that appears formidable amongst the simple villages of the local Berber people. However, its very existence is to cherish the community and environment. Located at the foot of North Africa’s highest peak, Kasbah du Toubkal was formerly the summer home of a local feudal chief, and a crumbling ruin until the mid-1990s. The current owner was first introduced to the kasbah by a local mountain guide and respected leader of a small Berber village nearby. A thoughtful, sustainable renovation of the kasbah revived not just the building, but infused the economy of an entire mountain-dwelling community. The kasbah is run through a unique partnership with the local Berber community. The locals not only make up the workforce of the kasbah, but also receive funds specifically for their community to prosper – whether it is to purchase an ambulance or support their children's education. RECOMMENDED ROUTE Morocco’s Mountain Magic and Ancient Traditions (11 days) Casablanca (1 night) Fes (3) Rabat (1) Marrakech (3) High Atlas (2) Marrakech (1) Adventure Culture Landscape Best time to go: MAR to JUN, SEP to DEC From $ 4,280 / person TALK TO OUR EXPERT Jojo Aggers jojo@enchantingtravels.com The peaceful seclusion of this ancient kasbah is only interrupted by the warmth of the staff. They emanate natural hospitality, whether it's while offering you a glass of steaming Moroccan mint tea, or sharing their family stories. You can experience astounding and ever-changing views from the kasbah, specially when the sun glides over the mountain range. Bewitching log fires and cozy natural furnishings keep you warm at night. Feast on a tagine, a staple food of the region that comes served in an earthenware pot with aromatic couscous, and you might never want to leave. Luckily, there are many trekking and hiking trails, which will encourage you to explore the region and savor the crisp mountain air. Along the way, generous Berber families welcome you into their humble homes, where you can tuck into a delicious, traditional lunch. If you like, your mountain guide can also take you on a medicinal walk, and tell you about the rich array of native plants, many used for preparing herbal remedies. As you descend back down the mountain to modern civilization, you may leave this rustic lifestyle behind, but the invigorating, welcoming experience of the Berber community will always remain with you.