Community spirit at the Kasbah

Bleary eyes from an early start are soon cleared hiking Asloun peak, with the whole family motivating each other to get their blood pumping and make it to the top. That encouragement then remains along the dusty track flanked by juniper trees and panoramic views of the valley’s contours all the way to Tamgounssi Pass. Later, an optional trekker spa treatment – an invigorating twist on the traditional hammam involving alternating hot basalt and cool marble stones – does wonders for tired legs.

Venturing to the Tamgounssi Weaving Centre, the women of the Eve Branson Foundation introduce the ancient craft of weaving. Taught by local artisans employed by the foundation, women attend the centre daily to learn the art of hand embroidery in a range of textiles. New skills start to shape into stories, which are largely hand-sewn into motifs, using the symbols of the Amazigh language. The creative sorts thrive here, hand-crafting their own keepsake to take home while getting to know the women and what the Foundation does for the local community. An embroidered cushion would be our choice, to cuddle up with the memories of Morocco when you’re back home.