The Atlas Mountains extend some 1,500 miles across northwestern Africa and are dotted with Berber villages and deep canyons and ravines, home to local families who are self-sustaining, producing goods like homemade butter and fresh bread. From Marrakesh, the mountains can be reached within an hour.

The "Red City" of Marrakesh is a wonderful mix of European, Middle Eastern and African culture. Set in the foothills west of the Atlas Mountains, the city home to beautiful boutique hotels, intimate gardens, upscale spas and hammams, delicious restaurants and charming riads.