It’s not easy finding charming accommodation in the medina of Taroudant.

A little off the main imperial city route, this lost-in-time town is mainly a stop over between Agadir/ Marrakech and the dunes of Erg Chigaga and possibly the only attraction besides its well maintained 16th century walls is the feeling of being in Marrakech in the 1980’s, where most inhabitants rode bicycles and life had a different pace. Most of its medina is of a more recent date and lacks the charm of say, the ones in Fes or Marrakech, but Palais Oumensour may be just reason enough to overnight. Property of a Belgian surgeon and run by Lamia and its efficient team, it sports a dozen beautifully designed rooms and suites and I can bet anything that you won’t find a larger pool in the whole of Taroudant’s medina. A hammam and massage room are also present on site. The food is delicious – you should try the sea- food pastilla ( needs to be ordered in advance). Alcohol is not available on site.