A perfect rural retreat and a base for exploring Marrakesh and the High Atlas.

Having spent years going to Morocco and exploring, we have finally found the perfect place nestled between the Marrakesh and the mountains, and finally our search is over, we will not be staying anywhere else, it's perfect. We both agreed that it would have been as perfect for us in our twenties as it will be in our 40's. Al-Limuna is the oasis we have been looking for, far from the madding crowd but close enough to nip in to the bustle of the souks, the bars and the entertainment. The house is surrounded by calm and the blanket of snow rests on the mountains providing a dramatic backdrop on which to gaze from the roof top, the bedroom balconies, the pool, the breakfast table, the garden, the verandah, the terrace, anywhere all day but especially when the colours change, either at sunset with a negroni or sunrise with fresh juices. The staff are immaculate. One is barely conscious of them until just before you realise you need something. Latifa surprised us daily with exceptionally good fresh food, so that we felt thoroughly restored by the time we had to go. Sa'ed was a huge help for everything we needed and Zoubeida served us beautifullly, and always had a smile or a laugh for us. There are several different eating areas, three of which are out doors, and enough space for everyone to have privacy. The interior has been very well laid out, the rooms are all stylish, spacious, airy with good hot water and walk-in showers. We enjoyed log fires in the evening when it was cooler, even after swimming in the pool in the sun that same morning, in January! The pool has some protection for small children, and camels were laid on for us to go for a ride. Getting around is easy and there is plenty to explore up in the Atlas Mountains as well as the city. We and gone to switch off and read, but found there was so much to enjoy and explore, that we can't wait to go back again, to sit still and read.

We were completely surprised at just how beautiful the house and huge garden were. Every detail had been thought through: the painted Moroccan tiles in the bathrooms, linen-draped four poster beds, home made olive oil, and breath taking views of the Atlas Mountains from every balcony and veranda. We loved being able to sit in different places for breakfast, lunch, drinks, dinner. Lunch was brought to us by the pool by the fabulous cook, and the house maid. Both the cook and maid were great with the children and made a big fuss of them (ages 3 to 7). It was sunny and t-shirt weather during the day, but too cold to swim. There is a pretty box hedge growing around the pool to prevent children getting unguarded access. There are tennis racquets and balls at the villa (old ones, but they work). Marrakech is only 30 mins by car. Nothing nicer than coming back to the cleanliness and tranquillity of the villa after the noisy, bustling souks. I have already booked my next holiday there, only this time I will do less shopping.