Imperial Glory Lodges

We spent one night at Imperial Glory Lodges as part of a 5 night Secret Escapes package which included a night in the Dades Gorge and a night in the Sahara, as well as nights in Marrakech either side. We finally arrived at the jeep pick up point at 4pm, from where we were driven a shortish distance into the desert to reach the location of the camels (actually dromedaries as only 1 hump!), along with another couple on the same tour. The 4 of us were then led on our camels for 1.5hrs through the dunes to the camp - which to be honest seemed very long, as we had drizzle/rain most of the way and there was thunder in the distance - not what you hope for at sunset time! We passed other camps on the way and when we finally saw the welcoming lights of Imperial Glory, it was a relief to get off! By then it was about 6pm and we were greeted with a refreshing cold drink and some nibbles, and then taken to our "tents" - although both of us couples were actually taken to a couple of thatched roof cabins with glass patio doors on the fronts, which were at the end of the arc of white tents - which felt like an upgrade! Our "tent" was stunning inside with 2 big beds at either side, dressing table, hanging rail, rugs etc and then a large bathroom behind with a huge bath in the centre, and a shower section at one end and toilet at the other. It was also lovely and warm which was a relief after our damp camel ride and the rapidly cooling night air, and there was good lighting. The only issue we had was that the shower water was only luke warm, so we could only face a very quick one - perhaps because the water is solar heated and it had been a grey wet day? It certainly wouldn't have been any good for a bath! In the room were his and hers Berber style robes to wear for the evening, which was a nice touch. Dinner was at 8pm and a tasty set meal of 5 courses (included in our package). Soft drinks available to purchase, no alcohol. Then there was live local music by the campfire outside which gave a nice atmosphere. Unfortunately a lot of the cushions set out around the fire were soaked from the weather and it was a very cold evening, so we didn't last long before turning in. We were also advised at dinner that we needed to be at breakfast at 7am with our luggage, before a 7.40am departure. We therefore had to set our alarm for 6.20am. Breakfast was a cold buffet of breads and pancakes and jams. Nothing too exciting and no hot options offered but it was early so we didn't mind. Jeeps collected us and we had a fun journey back across the same dunes, slipping and sliding as we drove up and over a similar route to the camels but quicker! The sun rose as we left. A too short but sweet stay, as it would have been lovely to have had a full day and an extra night to soak up the environment, especially given the poor weather on arrival. A lot of people from other camps were standing on the dunes watching the sun rise as we drove back over, but no time for t

This is complete luxury in the middle of the desert. From the moment you step foot in the camp you are immersed in a VIP experience. The accommodation consists of king size beds, running hot water and air conditioning. The staff were amazing the whole time, friendly and always on hand if you needed anything. The evening campfire and dancing made it an unforgettable experience. I think everyone should stay here at least once!