Olinto

We are 2 days into our 3 day stay. What an amazing place it is. Immaculately clean and wonderful, friendly staff who can’t do enough for you. The food is out of this world and the property itself is huge and beautifully kept. We hope to be back sooner rather than later.

If attention to detail were an art form then Prince Fabrizio Ruspoli di Poggio, the Italian aristocrat and visionary creator of the Olinto Atlas mountain retreat would surely be one of the greatest artists of all time. No amount of words, sentences or superlatives can adequately convey the magnificent splendour and unhindered tranquility that this remarkable corner of Morocco offers those fortunate enough to visit. The high Atlas Mountains appear as sentries, surrounding and protecting this very special place which was crafted by skilled and seasoned artisans both local and international. A mere five years ago, a simple olive grove was all that occupied this valley close to Ourigane but as you quietly wander along the lazily twisting paths, expertly laid from locally hewn volcanic rock, it seems as though the low buildings and gently bubbling streams and ponds have simply ‘grown’ through the ancient olive trees so integral and ingenious is the design. The subtle aroma of jasmine and lavender accompany you on your stroll through the lush greenery, overloading your senses with beauty at every turn. Visitors are accommodated in one of nine pavilions, each one enjoying unique and sumptuous decor, their distinctive characteristics adding to and enhancing the overall feeling of a very special and individualised experience. But what of the people charged as gatekeepers for this earthly wonder, the mortal men and women who welcome and inform their guests, sharing knowledge and offering true Berber hospitality. Selected, in most cases, from the local area it would be criminally understating the reality to call them staff, they are simply perfect ambassadors for this garden of Eden . Every small interaction is a pleasure and nothing is too much trouble. Their nomadic ancestors were famous for their kindness and hospitality and that bygone age of honesty, decency and charm flows through Olinto like a mighty river. Locally sourced ingredients enhanced by herbs grown in the property’s meandering gardens are used to create a veritable tapestry of Moroccan cuisine, crafted by Olinto’s hugely talented and delightfully friendly chefs, and sipping one of their signature cocktails to start your evening off, adds up to the perfect way to end your day in this magical place. Explaining the experience of Olinto through the pen is an impossible task, it’s magic is in its people, it’s peacefulness is becoming a part of its environment and its soul is all encompassing and warm, it is a feeling pure and simple and one every visitor will wish to repeat.

Sometimes in life, you come to places you know you want to return to because the place make you feel a special way. We knew Olinto would be a wonderful experience, but our stay exceeded our expectations. The people who work there, the amazing pavilions/ small houses and the whole atmosphere in the hotel, make you feel calm and in balance. The restaurant and the people working there are super, and we really recommend taking the dessert out into the garden and eating it in front of the outdoor fireplace! Simply magical! They do have a gym that will be finished soon, a lovely SPA and Hammam. You can also learn to cook local food. Don't forget to arrange a tour with a local guide, definitely recommended! Olinto is an adults only retreat with 9 villas surrounded by a more than beautiful garden. And again, all the people working there are so polite and always with a smile. We have to mention the girls in the SPA and Mohcine, you are all shining stars! We are already looking forward to come back!

My husband and I recently stayed at Olinto for 2 days and we didnt want to leave. Its so unassuming when you first arrive and then you step into the gardens and feel like you are miles away from everything. The layout of the hotel was so well planned and with only 9 villas you feel like you re in your own private home. The villas are beautifully appointed and drenched in sunlight. Surrounded by olive trees and flowers with 3 different outdoor siting options its sometimes hard to leave the villa. Bfast on the rooftop was the highlight for me. Staring at the mountains, eating fresh food and juices listening to the birds and the call to prayer in the background was incredible. Tayeb was our waiter and did a fantastic job. All of the staff are so lovely and accomodating. Great service - they are always on hand but not overbearing. Like the villa there are lots of places to stop and drop. Take a book to sit in the gardens or lie beside the pool/s ( super comfy day beds) or down by the stream. You can also spend hours staring into space just appreciating the beauty of the property. This is understated chic and I dont feel the photos do it justice. We will definately return on our next trip to Morocoo.

After traveling through Southern Spain, Marrakech, and the Agafay Desert, we capped off our trip with with a multi-day stay at Olinto. And it was a spectacular opportunity to relax, decompress, and to thoroughly enjoy this amazing facility and its location. Upon arrival we were warmly greeted by Jamie, fully familiarized with the hotel services, and enjoyed a full tour of the grounds on the way to our pavilion. Most amazing was the creativity in the overall design, the attention to detail, and serenity of the locale. And most exceptional was the warmth of the staff and their high levels of service and attention to meet your individual needs. The word no is simply not in their vocabulary. We enjoyed the incredibly appointed bar facility, a wonderful spa experience, their locally sourced boutique, poolside relaxation, and absolutely top notch food & restaurant services. In all, Olinto is a most special hotel supported by an amazing staff that we enjoyed immensely!

WOW. WOW. WOW. We arrived after a long journey from the U.S. This is a beautiful, welcoming oasis. The grounds are breathtaking. The accommodations are top-notch from start to finish. The food is fresh and delicious. However, the staff is this property's most important asset. They are genuine, passionate about their country, and warm and welcoming. A special shout-out to Youssef. He was a wealth of knowledge and took a personal interest in ensuring we had a memorable stay. Well done, all around!