There are places in Morocco that everyone talks about — Marrakesh, Agadir, Ouarzazate — and then there are places that feel like beautiful secrets waiting to be discovered. Taliouine, known as the saffron capital of Morocco, sits quietly between the High Atlas and Anti-Atlas mountains. It’s peaceful, authentic, and full of soul.
During my journey through southern Morocco, I stayed at Auberge Askaoune, located in 83500 Taliouine, and it became one of the most memorable experiences of my trip. From Berber hospitality to breathtaking mountain views, everything here felt genuine, slow, and deeply calming.
Let me take you through my stay — from the road leading to the inn to the warm tajine served under desert stars.
🌄 Arrival – A Scenic Journey Through the Mountains
Reaching Auberge Askaoune was a highlight in itself. The drive from Taroudant to Taliouine unfolded like a moving painting — red earth landscapes, winding roads, scattered argan trees, and the silhouettes of distant mountains.
When I arrived at the auberge, its traditional earthen architecture blended perfectly with the surroundings. A wooden door, Berber carpets at the entrance, and a warm welcome from the staff instantly set the tone: this was going to be a peaceful, authentic Moroccan stay.
A mint tea was placed in my hand before I even sat down, and as I looked around at the mountains surrounding the property, I felt the stress of travel melt away.
🏨 First Impressions – A Traditional Berber Auberge with Heart
Auberge Askaoune has a rustic charm that feels honest and rooted in the culture of the region. The décor features:
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Berber rugs
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Carved wooden furniture
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Earth-toned walls
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Handmade pottery
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Mountain-inspired artwork
Nothing here feels artificial or overly modern. Instead, it feels like a family home adapted for travelers — warm, grounded, and full of character.
The staff, mostly locals from nearby villages, welcomed me like a friend. They shared stories about local traditions, the saffron harvest, and even recipes passed through generations.
🛌 Rooms – Simple, Clean, and In Harmony with Nature
My room at Auberge Askaoune was spacious yet simple — a perfect reflection of Berber mountain life. It included:
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A comfortable bed with warm blankets
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Traditional textiles and carpets
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A private bathroom with hot shower
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A small seating corner
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Clean linen and fresh towels
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A window overlooking the mountains and sunrise
The charm of the room wasn’t in luxury but in authenticity. The walls kept the temperature cool during the afternoon heat, and at night, the silence of the mountains was the best lullaby.
Every morning, sunlight slipped through the wooden shutters, and I woke up to birdsong — a rare and priceless experience.
🍽️ Dining – Home-Cooked Moroccan Flavors You Can’t Resist
Food is one of the biggest highlights of staying at Auberge Askaoune.
Breakfast
Each morning started with:
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Freshly baked Moroccan bread
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Amlou (almond spread)
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Olive oil
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Honey and saffron jam (a local specialty!)
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Hard-boiled eggs
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Berber tea or strong local coffee
Breakfast was served on the terrace with a panoramic view of the mountains — the perfect beginning to any day.
Dinner
Dinner at the auberge is a must-try. I enjoyed:
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Traditional chicken tajine with lemon and olives
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Couscous with vegetables and saffron
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Harira soup
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Seasonal fruits
Everything was homemade, slow-cooked, and bursting with flavor. You can taste the care in every bite.
The staff is also happy to adjust meals for vegetarians or travelers with dietary preferences — a thoughtful touch.
🌵 The Surroundings – A Gateway to Nature and Culture
Staying in Taliouine offers an opportunity to explore landscapes you won’t find anywhere else in Morocco.
Here are the nearby attractions I visited during my stay:
🟣 1. Saffron Fields of Taliouine
Taliouine is Morocco’s saffron capital. Between October and November, the saffron flowers bloom, and you can visit local cooperatives to learn how the world’s most precious spice is harvested.
🏺 2. Taliouine Saffron Museum
A small but fascinating museum that explains saffron cultivation, Berber traditions, and local agriculture. The staff shares stories that enrich the experience.
🏞 3. Taznakhte & Ait Benhaddou Route
A scenic route connecting Taliouine to the valley leading toward Ait Benhaddou — perfect for travelers heading toward Ouarzazate.
⛰ 4. Mountains & Hiking Trails
From the auberge, you can walk straight into the mountains. I spent a peaceful afternoon hiking, listening to the wind, and marveling at the beauty of the Anti-Atlas.
🕌 5. Berber Villages
The auberge can arrange guided visits to nearby villages, where you’ll learn about traditional life, crafts, and agriculture.
🚗 Transportation – Easy to Reach for Road Trip Travelers
Most travelers reach Taliouine by car, either from:
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Agadir (3 hours)
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Taroudant (1 hour 30 minutes)
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Ouarzazate (2 hours)
The auberge offers:
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Free parking
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Help arranging taxis
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Local guides for excursions
Because the area is remote, it’s best to plan your route in advance, but the roads are well-maintained and incredibly scenic.
🌿 Activities Offered by the Auberge Askaoune
During my stay, the team offered several activities:
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Guided hikes
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Cooking demonstrations
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Saffron field visits
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Village tours
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Sunset viewpoints in the mountains
They also gave great advice on where to buy authentic saffron — straight from local producers.
✨ Why We Recommend Auberge Askaoune
Here are the top reasons why Auberge Askaoune should be your go-to stay in Taliouine:
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Authentic Berber Hospitality – warm, genuine, and unforgettable.
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Perfect Mountain Location – peaceful, scenic, and inspiring.
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Delicious Homemade Meals – flavors of Morocco’s saffron capital.
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Comfortable, Clean Rooms – simple but perfect for unwinding.
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Excellent Value – affordable rates with generous service.
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Great Base for Exploring – saffron fields, nature, culture.
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Quiet & Relaxing Atmosphere – ideal for disconnecting and recharging.
If you’re looking for a true Moroccan retreat far from tourist crowds, this is the place.
❓ FAQ – Auberge Askaoune, Taliouine
Q1: Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, the auberge offers free Wi-Fi in public areas.
Q2: Does the hotel serve meals?
Yes — homemade Moroccan breakfast and dinner are available daily.
Q3: Is the property family-friendly?
Absolutely — families are welcomed warmly, and the environment is peaceful and safe.
Q4: What is the nearest airport?
Agadir Airport is the closest major airport (around 3 hours by car).
Q5: Are pets allowed?
Some rooms may allow pets — ask when booking.
Q6: What is the check-in/check-out time?
Check-in usually starts mid-afternoon; check-out is in the morning (confirm on Booking.com).
Q7: Does the auberge offer guided tours?
Yes — hiking tours, saffron field visits, and village tours can be arranged.
🌅 My Favorite Memory – Saffron Sunset Over the Mountains at Auberge Askaoune
On my last evening, the staff invited me to sit on the terrace for sunset. The sky glowed orange, then pink, then purple — the colors reflecting the very saffron this region is famous for. Birds flew across the horizon, and the mountains slowly fell into shadow.
A warm breeze carried the scent of cooked spices from the kitchen, and I remember thinking: this is exactly why I travel.
It was simple. It was peaceful. It was Morocco at its most authentic.
✨ Conclusion – Book Your Stay and Experience Real Morocco at Auberge Askaoune
Auberge Askaoune is more than a place to sleep — it’s a window into Berber culture, mountain life, and the soul of Morocco’s saffron region. Whether you’re stopping for a night during a road trip or spending several days exploring Taliouine, this auberge offers comfort, tradition, and heartfelt hospitality.
If you want an experience that feels real, intimate, and unforgettable, this is the place to stay.
👉 Book your stay at Auberge Askaoune on Booking.com
Your Moroccan mountain escape is waiting.