Riad Dar Poublanc

Sixteen rooms arranged around a traditional courtyard in Hassi Labiad, Riad Dar Poublanc sits at the edge of Erg Chebbi — the towering dune field that marks Morocco's Saharan frontier, roughly 50km from Erfoud.

The riad's position makes it a natural base for pre-dawn camel treks into the dunes, with guides departing directly from the property before sunrise. Evenings typically end at a desert camp further into the erg, returning under full star cover — conditions Merzouga's low light pollution make exceptional.

Hassi Labiad is a quieter satellite of Merzouga village, favoured by travellers wanting dune access without the tour-group congestion closer to the main road. Erfoud airport serves the region; the drive from Ouarzazate runs roughly three hours along the Draa Valley route.