Secret Santuary in North Morocco
I came back a few days ago from a trip to northern Morocco, and I highly recommend adding a few extra days to your itinerary to discover this magical place, filled with good energy, peace, and tranquility.
People who followed my trip on Instagram couldn’t believe that what I was showing them from L’Ermitage D’Akchour was actually Morocco. I received messages like, “Is that in Morocco?” or “I can’t believe that’s in Morocco!” Even though I had researched the place extensively before visiting, the reality far exceeded anything I had seen online.
Now, I’ll try to summarize in photos and words what you can expect if you stay at L’Ermitage D’Akchour. I took tons of videos but very few photos, so the images in this post are either mine or from the property itself. Photo credits are indicated below each image.
Where is L'Ermitage d'Akchour?
Akchour is a small town in Morocco, nestled in the Talembote Valley, which is part of Talassemtane National Park. This stunning natural area is just over 30 km from Chefchaouen.
Since you’ll most likely be visiting the Blue Pearl on your trip through northern Morocco, I highly recommend setting aside two or three days to explore this breathtaking region. Even if you’re not a big fan of hiking, the scenic trails here will captivate you. Picture lush forests, majestic mountains, flowing rivers, and enchanting waterfalls—straight out of a fairytale.
For the perfect ending to your trip, stay at L’Ermitage d’Akchour. Check out the activities they offer and explore the area with their recommended guides by following this link.
Location and Founder
Totally in harmony with nature, this sanctuary, L’Ermitage d’Akchour, is nestled among towering mountains, with a river running through its grounds. Outside, you’ll find several chalets built from natural materials, seamlessly blending into the landscape.
Winding paths weave through the property, looking as if they were taken straight from a fairytale. The mastermind behind this project is, in my opinion, a genius—each chalet, resting area, tree, and flower has been placed with such precision that everything coexists in perfect harmony. Later in this post, I’ll tell you more about the visionary who founded L’Ermitage.
If you’re seeking relaxation, I can assure you that from the moment you arrive and start exploring, a profound sense of peace washes over you.
Wellness
At L’Ermitage d’Akchour, wellness is a top priority. During my stay, I happened to be there at the same time as a wellness retreat, and I have to say—it’s the perfect setting for this kind of experience. If you’re an organizer, look no further! This place has everything you need, especially for small to medium-sized groups.
L’Ermitage also offers a wellness program for guests, which you can check out here
In line with this philosophy, food is also a key element at L’Ermitage. The restaurant is truly the heart of this retreat, serving seasonal, wholesome ingredients. You can explore the menu here
Now, let me show you my favorite part of L’Ermitage: the river. I could spend hours here, surrounded by peaceful corners, loungers, mats, and quiet spaces designed for relaxation and reconnection with yourself.
The visionary behind this project
This sanctuary, where a deep sense of peace washes over you the moment you arrive, was founded by Ahmed Saad Zniber. For years, he dreamed of a place he hadn’t yet found—only to realize it had been in his homeland, Morocco, all along.
When he arrived in Akchour, he knew he was home. It wasn’t so much a discovery as a reunion with the place he had always envisioned. He sought out the elderly guardians of the land to learn its history and understand the strength and power it holds. The villagers embraced him as one of their own.
He soon realized that Akchour is more than just a place—it’s a story, one that can be shared by the fire or whispered by the river, but only with those who truly wish to listen.
At L’Ermitage, they are the keepers of this story, and if you’re willing to hear it, they will gladly share it with you.
As I’ve mentioned throughout this post, this is a sacred and deeply special land—one where peace and serenity come naturally.
Ahmed Saad Zniber is a mystic, artist, therapist, social entrepreneur, and architect who envisioned L’Ermitage as a way to share the magic of this place with others. You can learn more about the founder of L’Ermitage through this link.
The Chalets
Now, let’s take a look at the chalets, designed with stone and wood walls to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
They are spacious, cozy, and thoughtfully designed. Some offer views of the lush gardens and mountains, while others overlook the river.
You can explore the different types of chalets and suites at this link. Here are some pictures.
Info and favourite pictures
I’m wrapping up this post with a selection of my favorite photos of this place, along with all the details you need to connect with L’Ermitage d’Akchour.
I wouldn’t hesitate to return—honestly, I’d come back to Morocco just to stay here without adding any other stops. This place has made it straight into my Top 5 favorite locations in Morocco.
It’s also the perfect way to end a trip through the north of the country. You’ll head back home feeling completely renewed. Plus, Tangier and Tetouan airports are just a short distance away.
📍 Book your stay here
⭐ Read reviews on Tripadvisor or Google
📸 Follow their journey and philosophy on Instagram
Don’t think twice—stay here, it’s truly special!
