As a rule you can guarantee that at any one time Marrakech usually has a riad or a high-end hotel chain opening an outpost, but far from the souks and bustle, the hotel scene is a little more static.
Just opened in Tassoultante, 14km out of Marrakech at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, is the Fellah Hotel.
All 69 rooms and 10 villas are furnished minimally, mixing items from local flea markets and modern pieces made by local craftsmen with views of the palm tree and cactus-fringed pool and mountains beyond. Two restaurants serve local cuisine.
But what sets this hotel apart is its non-profit UNESCO-Aschberg-recognised arts and cultural centre, Dar al-Ma’mûn. Also supporting local education and literacy centres, Dar al-Ma’mûn is supported by visitors.
The Wat Po Thai Massage Centre offers two-hour southern-Thai style massages while the Moroccan Wellness Centre has yoga and the expected hammam.
Doubles from €170 B&B. For more details, visit fellah-hotel.com