Nestled on the edge of the Moroccan desert, a fortress-like hotel has quietly become a sanctuary for Hollywood's elite. Le Berbère Palace in Ouarzazate, the first luxury hotel of its kind in southern Morocco, has built a legendary reputation over three decades by hosting film crews and A-list stars from nearby Atlas Studios.
Hollywood Glamour Meets Berber Hospitality
Driving through the sun-baked landscape of Ouarzazate, the imposing structure of Le Berbère Palace immediately stands out. Its location is no accident; it's a short drive from the famed Atlas Studios, where blockbusters like Gladiator, Astérix & Obélix, and Prince of Persia were filmed. The hotel has become a home-away-from-home for actors and directors during long production schedules.
Inside, the atmosphere blends cinematic opulence with authentic Moroccan warmth. Intricate mosaics, lavish furnishings, and the gentle sound of a central fountain create a calming yet elegant vibe. The subtle placement of film props throughout the public areas nods to its storied connections. Guests are traditionally welcomed with mint tea and sweet pastries, setting a relaxed tone.
One charming anecdote shared by staff involves Sir Anthony Hopkins, who reportedly enjoyed playing with the resident kittens in a shaded courtyard during the filming of Mary in 2024.
Luxurious Rooms and Star-Studded Facilities
The hotel offers 249 rooms and suites, ranging from Superior rooms to the expansive Vizir and Grand Vizir suites for families or special occasions. The decor is an understated blend of modern clean lines and traditional Berber touches, featuring soft beige tones, handwoven rugs, and warm accents.
A journalist staying in a Deluxe room noted its spacious layout, complete with both a shower and bathtub, an extra-large double bed, and effective blackout curtains. While some furnishings showed signs of age, thoughtful gestures like a welcome tray of sweets and prompt service for extra bathroom amenities left a positive impression.
The facilities cater to both relaxation and fitness. The hammam offers a menu of traditional treatments including black soap cleansing, rhassoul clay wraps, and argan oil massages. The gym is well-equipped, humorously rumoured to house machines left behind by Denzel Washington after Gladiator 2.
However, the undisputed highlight is the sprawling, leafy pool area. It evokes the cinematic style of The White Lotus or The Night Manager, though it can get busy during peak hours. It is also near the hotel's most famous quirky feature: an exit informally dubbed 'the Brad Pitt door', allegedly used by the actor for discretion during his relationship with Angelina Jolie.
Dining and Practical Details for Travellers
Culinary options at Le Berbère Palace are varied. The main restaurant serves a generous buffet mixing Moroccan and international cuisine, with a strong emphasis on fresh salads, pastas, and slow-cooked tagines. For a change of pace, La Trattoria offers Italian fare, while the lounge bar provides a spot for pre-dinner drinks or nightcaps.
Breakfast receives high praise for its extensive selection of pastries, breads, fruits, and cold cuts, anchored by a made-to-order egg station. Guests can start the day with a fresh omelette or msemen, a traditional Moroccan flatbread.
For those planning a visit, rooms start from £74 per night off-peak. A three-night spring stay for two in a Superior room can be booked from around £779. Check-in is at 3 pm, with check-out at 12 noon. The hotel offers some wheelchair-accessible rooms and a step-free reception, though full accessibility is limited.
With its many lounges and spacious grounds, the hotel is deemed perfect for groups, though perhaps less ideal for couples seeking an intensely intimate retreat. Its enduring appeal lies in its unique blend of local legend, Hollywood history, and five-star service in the heart of Morocco's film country.
