Richard Branson’s Moroccan retreat, Kasbah Tamadot, was bought in 1999 from antiques dealer Luciano Tempo and opened its doors to the public in February 2005. The position of Kasbah Tamadot, nestling in the meeting-point of two valleys, is stunning; the views of the imperious High Atlas, culminating in the peak of Jbel Toubkal, are quite staggering. The 18 rooms and suites come in a mixture of styles, the product of the energies of various designers ranging from the Branson family and the manager of Vanessa Branson’s Riad El Fenn, to Project Orange, an Old Street architectural and design practice. The Kasbah is more of a destination in itself than it is a base for enjoying Marrakech. Situated an hour and a quarter’s drive from the Medina, over sometimes remarkably windy mountain roads, it is quite cut off from the hubbub of everyday life. Horse-riding in the foothills or even an expedition to the top of Toubkal can be organized if you so desire – but the pace of life here is generally a lot slower than elsewhere. Most people tend to enjoy themselves lounging poolside before rousing themselves to sample the endeavours of the remarkably skilled South African chef, and enjoying the relaxing atmosphere of the spa.