Boutique Yoga Retreat Near Marrakech, Morocco

This intimate boutique hotel sits within a magical desert landscape on the brow of a nearby Berber hamlet, whose labyrinth of narrow alleyways and flat-roofed village houses feels timeless and biblical. Known in the local Berber dialect as "My house," it was built in 1840 for the local judge. As with many North African dwellings, the interior is everything: step inside to a peaceful oasis where a lovely garden of lawns and winding paths unfolds, planted with banana palms, citrus and olive trees. A swimming pool of soft, jade-coloured water, orange blossom and roses fill the air with scent, and slow-moving tortoises roam the grounds, reinforcing the unhurried atmosphere.

Facilities include two swimming pools (one heated in cooler months), sun-loungers and shaded garden areas furnished with comfortable divans for relaxing out of the sun. The venue also offers a hammam and spa with treatments delivered by skilled local therapists.

Retreat programme: this yoga retreat features two yoga classes each day with Rhi and one yoga-free day. Classes are suitable for all levels and all yoga experience: mornings begin with meditation and a flowing asana practice to open the body and attune the mind to the breath, while afternoon sessions are more restorative and explore postures more deeply. Two dedicated yoga spaces include a covered roof terrace with stunning views across the plains to the Atlas Mountains, and a charming, light and airy indoor room with a log burner for cooler days.

Things to do: days can be spent lazing Moroccan style—lounging, reading or swimming in one of the two pools, playing backgammon or chess in the many gardens and courtyards, or venturing into the nearby city. Cultural highlights are plentiful: visit mosques and museums, the famous Jemaa el Fna square, the Majorelle Gardens and the grove at La Palmeraie. Exploring the souks in the Medina is an art form in itself, with bustling market stalls and colourful displays of local crafts, satins, silks, baskets, leather goods and spices. Various day trips can also be arranged further afield, such as a hike in the Atlas Mountains.