Fodor's Expert Review Kasbah Bab Ourika

This luxurious retreat is a delightful example of how to build a near-perfect romantic getaway that's also eco-friendly. The hotel is perched on an outcrop overlooking a national park that staff fondly refer to as "Arizona" though its real name is Isk-N-Tanoumiri National Park. Inhale the lavender-scented gardens and take a moment to marvel at the fully organic herb and vegetable beds, the two pools, the terraces and arbors (hung with vines and roses), and a lawn any Englishman would die for. What is so extraordinary about this refuge (just a short journey from Marrakesh) is that it looks as if it has occupied its lofty position for generations, when in fact, it was built from scratch only a few years ago. All water is recycled, much of the power is solar (although Bab Ourika has its own generator), beauty products are supplied by nearby Nectarome, and salt comes from the mines below. The hotel also contributes to the local villages and is one of the most eco-friendly hotels in Morocco; it's constructed principally from rammed earth, the traditional Amazigh building technique. The thick walls provide such good insulation that air-conditioning is unnecessary, but each room has a fan in case you get too warm.