Rising from the sand against a backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, Kasbah Taourirt, one of the most beautiful kasbahs in Morocco, is a wonder to behold. Its orange-red walls are so similar to the colour of the sand that it looks as if it grew out of the Sahara. All of which, adds to the grandiose structure’s timelessness, making it seem as ancient and permanent as the mountains behind it.

Kasbah Taourirt was built by the powerful warlord Thami El Glaoui in the 19th century. Its interior is a maze of winding corridors, lofty towers and steep staircases. With an estimated 300 rooms and more than 20 riads, lose yourself exploring the infinite rooms, which range from luxurious sitting rooms to humble kitchens, giving you a taste of the life of a great warlord.

Interestingly, while of great importance in the 1930s when the el Glaoui powers were at their strongest, the Kasbah Taourirt never had an el Glaoui chief as its resident. Today, the compound or more specifically, the rear side, has a few villagers who call it home. For a small fee, they will always be willing to show you the rooms of this stunning palace.