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Sustainable tourism in Imlil, Morocco

When places in less economically developed countries become popular tourist areas it is difficult to preserve the natural environment and social structures in a sustainable manner. This Expedition Special looks at a hotel in the High Atlas Mountains which is making a serious effort to meet this challenge

A view of the Kasbah and surrounding mountains

The Kasbah du Toubkal Hotel, at Imlil in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, was once the retreat of a feudal chief. Two brothers decided to restore it through the tour company Discover Ltd (www.discover.ltd.uk). The building work was carried out by local people using traditional methods. This had two advantages: it provided jobs and it eliminated the need for heavy machinery, which would have damaged the mountain environment.

The final result blends perfectly into the surrounding scenery. This is also true of all the other nearby buildings. The interior is decorated in traditional Moroccan style, with under-floor heating and Berber sleeping salons, designed according to local custom. All food served in the hotel is sourced locally, and prepared fresh at the hotel. This keeps food miles to a minimum.

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Farm diversification in the UK

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