Dar KamalChaoui

Being welcomed into a Moroccan household

Pros: Kamal and his family were ready to host us at very little notice after our plans changed. They welcomed us into their home like old friends, introducing us to their small children. They offered us some bissara for lunch. Kamal then took us around Sefrou for an enlightening tour (for a charge). We then had dinner all together with two other guests, some delicious starters and prune tagine. We really felt at home throughout. It was definitely the most convivial and special day we had in Morocco on this trip. The facilities themselves are great: you will sleep upstairs in Kamal’s house, in beautifully decorated rooms full of artwork. The bed is amazingly comfortable.

Cons: Nothing to report

Great place to visit and provided insight to Moroccan life and the caves, local community

Pros: Homely welcome in a family home. Great terrace looking out and food exceptional. Massive spread with some home cooked delicacies. Very informative host . Excellent tour of village in very sensitive and discrete manner

Absolutely happy. 😊

Pros: It’s a charming place where you feel at home. Especially when you’ve traveled through Morocco a bit before you appreciate the delicious food with a twist, the desserts (sometimes European). Plus - opportunities to make guided tours with Kamal.

Cons: We were happy; were there the second time after three years.

The reason why we travel

Pros: This is the kind of place why we travel and sometimes go that extra mile. We booked very last minute (an hour in advance) but the welcome wasn't any less warm or generous. After dragging our bikes up, Kamal and his wife took the time to welcome us over some tea and share some stories about our travels and themselves. Note that the room with separate beds is no longer available, but this was solved in a pleasant way. And very important in January, it was warm inside!(!) Even though we didn't mention it beforehand, we got a place to store our bikes overnight, which we really appreciate. The area is calm (pedestrian), view from the roof terrace is beautiful; in warmer times the tasty homemade breakfast is served there. There are some groceries and (street) food options within walking distance. In short: a bit higher on the price than average, but nevertheless a guest home we highly recommend.

Cons: If there was anything to comment on, it would be the bathroom getting very wet from the shower for the way it's arranged. But the pressure was good and water was hot, and that's what really counts.

Brilliant stay in Bhalil

Pros: We loved our visit to Bhalil and stay with Kamal and Jalila. They are such lovely, genuine people. We took the village tour with Kamal, he is so passionate about Bhalil and it's culture and traditions, and brings a great energy, which makes it much more meaningful than a usual sightseeing tour. We were also very thankful to the people who allowed us to visit their homes, who were very friendly and welcoming. If we had had more time, we would have loved to have spent more time there and done other tours too. We enjoyed a delicious dinner, as well as breakfast on the roof terrace, with a great view over Bhalil.

Perfect homestay with great food and lovely hosts.

Pros: A beautiful house in the historic town of Bhalil. The hosts, Kamal and Jalila are the kindest, friendliest people. Jalila's cooking is excellent, every night we had dinner with the family and it was always delicious, with lively conversations too. Breakfast on the roof terrace was lovely, great views across the town and the hills. Lots to see in the town; cave houses, local artists and craft shops and some local cafes and restaurants too. Some local walks, and the nearby town of Sefrou to explore. Not far from the Cedar forest national parks too. Only 20 mins from Fez.

Pros: A proper homestay experience with Kamal and Jalila, both of whom are experts at hosting. Highly recommend this unique stay

A delightful stay

Pros: This is an ideal location if you do not want to stay in Fes. It is a quiet, hilltop town about 20 mins to the south. Kamal was away, but kept in close contact with us to make sure we could find the property. His wife, Jalila is a perfect host and an excellent cook - the 4 course meal was delicious and really worth having. We even wanted a recipe from her. Breakfast can be had on the terrace from where you look over the town and see Fes in the distance. A delightful stay.

The most enjoyable part of our stay in Morocco!

Pros: What a wonderful place to stay! Kamal and Jalila are truly amazing and made us feel very welcome. Kamal is a fount of local knowledge and very personable and passionate about his local community. He gave us excellent walking suggestions and the most interesting of guided tours! Jalila cooked absolutely delicious food - generous feasts each day. The room was beautiful in itself: comfortable and artistic. This was the highlight of our holiday. Thank you to Kamal and Jalila!

Pros: We spent 2 lovely nights with Kamar and Jalila. Kamal helped us greatly with getting some essential shoe repair organised, showing us around Bhalil at the same time. The first evening we enjoyed a superb 3 course meal, prepared by Jalila, who also provided us with delicious breakfast on both days. While we were there we were also introduced to artist-in-residence Achim from Switzerland, working on a street art project in Bhalil, initiated by Kamal. If you are looking for a standard, run of the mill hotel, this is not the place for you. But if you want something different and personal, you will surely feel at home with Kamal and Jalila!