Best hotels in Zagora

As you trundle over the sugary Chigaga dunes, Azalai Camp appears like a mirage on the sand, its bone-white tents fluttering in the breeze. A bevy of cakes, dates and mint tea is already laid out on your arrival and the tents are a delightful mix of vintage and modern, with luxury that's quite unexpected in the Sahara Desert. Once settled, trace the dips and crests of the dunes on the back of a camel, play a round of golf on the make-shift course, and, when night falls, find your eyes constantly drawn back to the magical sky.

A bona fide oasis in the middle of the world's largest grove of palms, Azalai Lodge is picturesque to say the least. Craggy stone walls, studded wooden doors and delicate glass lanterns all create a space that is timeless and demure. To reach the lodge, you'll traverse the road that once formed part of the Sahara to Marrakesh caravan route. Once there, you'll spend languid days beside the pool, as well as enjoying hikes into the foothills of the Anti-Atlas Mountains and bicycle rides to the river at sunset. After the hubbub of Morocco's cities, Azalai is a balm to the soul surrounded by unfiltered natural beauty.

As soon as you arrive at the Desert Camp, it's easy to see why this sandy wonderland has attracted travellers for millenia. Follow a rich, red carpet lined with lanterns to find your tent, softly furnished to reflect the surroundings and an idyllic place to rest after a morning camel ride or 4x4 expedition amongst the dunes. Dressed in traditional tunics and turbans, the staff are always on hand to set up a private picnic, deliver mint tea to your sun lounger and, in the evenings, provide a rousing performance of local songs - you'll even learn a few tunes yourself.

Paradise awaits you at Dar Hnini, lush green oasis in the heart of the abundant Draa Valley. Indulge yourself in the unparalleled natural beauty of green date palm trees set against the backdrop of volcanic mountain rangers creating spellbinding sanctuary.