Borj des Cascades & Spa

One of the first things you learn from traveling is that things have different meanings in different places; also, that flexibility and a sense of humor are essential. If you’ve made it all the way to Ouzoud, Morocco, I would hope you understand that there is a universe of difference between 5 stars in Paris and 5 stars in rural Morocco. That said, this hotel is a hoot. We stayed at the end of June, 2025, during a vicious heatwave, and when we arrived after a few days in Marrakech, we were excited about the waterfall and hopeful that the AC was up to the challenge. On these two points, Borj des Cascades did not disappoint. We were immediately struck by the absolute emptiness of the hotel—there was almost *no one* else there besides us and the handful of 20-something’s who comprise the staff. My friend and I booked separate rooms; both had spectacular views, but mine had a broken door handle, a stopped up sink, and one cockroach (but pretty good AC). My friend’s room was in better shape, but the AC was not as good. Overall I’d describe the hotel vibe as “Overlook Hotel from the Shining, Moroccan version” Our in room phones didn’t work so we went to the front desk when we needed something; Mohammed was on top of our every request, providing room service, a tour of the facilities, guidance on avoiding broken stairs, and advice about getting down to the waterfall. The pools were fantastic (and we had them all to ourselves!); dinner not so much. Our house salad was an atrocity, but the tagine was good. We opted not to eat there the second night. Nowhere else in the hotel was air conditioned, so the generous and tasty breakfast was slightly less enjoyable given that the dining room was already 85 degrees at 8 am; our dinner on the terrace was also sweltering. Every staff member we encountered was polite, kind, helpful, and friendly; we had no complaints about any of them. And our stay was lovely despite the hotel’s quirks—we were only there two nights, which was fine, as there isn’t much to do in Ouzoud. I think you can have a lovely visit here if you know what to expect; the gardens and the grounds are gorgeous, and the view cannot be beat. Just remember you’re not in Paris, and don’t take it too seriously.

When we turned up we were impressed. We weren’t disappointed with the room. The bed was large and comfortable and the views looking over the waterfall were beautiful, it was just a little tired. We had booked half board accommodation and was surprised that we could only have a set meal. The drinks were expensive and when we asked for a beer they had none and offered us wine. There was only a few guests which made the hotel soulless. Breakfast was plentiful. The staff tried their best. We decided to check out a day early as there wasn’t much to do around there once we had seen the waterfall. I don’t want to stop people going there but don’t expect 5 star.

One of the most beautiful hotels I have stayed in. The views of the waterfall were breathtaking, especially at night. The hotel staff were really welcoming and friendly, the room was clean on check in and serviced throughout the stay. Very cultured and relaxing environment, and a special thanks to Tariq for making the stay an exceptional experience and going above and beyond what he had to, to make sure me and my friend was comfortable and having a great time. 10/10 would recommend ❤️

DISAPPOINTING RESTAURANT AND SERVICE. When you go to a 5* Hotel you expect a minimum standard both in the reception, room, restaurant, service... Hind, receptionist, was very nice to all of us and got everything ready before we arrived. She even gave us a tea as a welcome. Rooms weren't neat as they should: some dirt on the walls and even used cutlery on the terrace. There was also a room sservice tray on the hall that wasn't removed in hours. There was a man smoking on the bar, just waiting for life to go. When it comes to order he hardly understand English, which should be a basic. At the pool there's no way to let someone know you want to order, and when we order ithere wasn't a good reaction. They don't even give you glasses for the beer, you have to drink straight from the bottle, which wasn't cool enough. Then we got to the restaurant and got ABSOLUTELY DISAPPOINTED. First of all, there wasn't a table ready for us, 11 people, nor even polished glasses nor plates. When it comes to order, a man that I suposse is the maitre, didn't get it straight and had to come for a second time telling it was us who said something wrong. A few plates on the menu were not available, which we wanted and where not advertised at the beginning of the dinner. Drinks took a while to come, and about the food... We order two ceasar salads, there was no sauce and the chicken was raw. The man didn't even react to us complaining. Main courses were ok, but we order a steak with champignong sauce and came with pepper sauce, also some tagliatelle with champignongs and chicking. I didn't see any champignon. We hadn't finished and another waiter had to call him while he was quietly smoking on the terrace with a friend. He saw our faces and I complained directly to him, didn't even bother. When on the bar to sign the bill I told him there was a cokoroach and didn't bother. Hotel, views, location and Hind were amazing, the other receptionist couldn't speak ANY English. Worst part comes with the service: not even an apology. Hotel was empty, now I guess why. I don't recommend it at all.

Memorable hotel. Incredible views of the waterfalls and mountains. Stunning grounds. We were kindly upgraded by Samir to beautiful suites with a priceless view. Linens and towels quality. Beds are very comfortable. Hotel is maybe in need of a little TLC, it’s a bit tired in places, but if you’re only staying one or two nights it’s worth a visit. Breakfast was astounding. (Parking is a little difficult)

Ruined our vacation! We booked visa the website and received an email confirmation. We also called to confirm the booking. However when we arrived, firstly they could not find our booking, then they said they didn't know where we got the night rate from (literally the one on their website) then lastly they told us that if we wanted to stay as an unmarried couple we would have to book two rooms even though my initial request asked this directly. We weren't willing to give them any of our money at this stage so left. Rude and treated us like we were in the wrong the entire time