We will be very short on time in Marrakesh but would very much like to venture into the Atlas Mountains. We will have a Friday afternoon and the whole of Saturday. Since we leave at 11am from Marrakesh airport on the Sunday, I am wondering if anyone has any tips for either a long day trip out to the Mountains on the Saturday or a 1 1/2 day trip involving an overnight stay. Is this something that would be best done with a private/ group guide? (In principle there is no problem about hiring a car, but for such a short time I think it's nicer not to have to drive ourselves). Is this something that may be possible through the Hotel Ali? Or does anyone have any other suggestions?
Any tips are most welcome.
Margaret

we found a place near the hamlet of imlil, and arranged it on the spot. they took us out into the mountains for three days...the fertile lands, remote villages (stayed with berbers), on houses...they gathered the water and the food for the trip...and i know that we also left them some clothes and medicine after we were done....to tell you the truth, i can't remember how much we paid, but i know that it was a really good deal...the info for the place is:

Auberge: Callon Dococ
Adresse: Village Armed Imlile b.p.85 Asni 42150 Marrakiceh Morocco
Tel (00212) (0) 70 41 03 76
email: walkinginmorocco@yahoo.com
website: www.walkinginmorocco.com