We’re always up for a good romance, especially one that unfolds during an unexpected trip where both characters are searching for anything but love. Netflix knows this well and has released its take on the theme titled “Lonely Planet,” starring Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth!
The picture follows a writer struggling with writer’s block that prevents her from finishing her novel. In an effort to overcome this obstacle, she travels to a writers’ retreat in Morocco. However, instead of finding inspiration for her work, she discovers a life-changing love affair that transforms her forever.
Much like the phenomenon of “Eat, Pray, Love” in the 2010s, viewers are eager to learn all about the filming locations and are curious whether the vacation plan for writing that the protagonist follows actually exists in real life.
Is there a real Morocco writers’ retreat?
Katherine Loewe, portrayed by Laura Dern, travels to Morocco and immerses herself in a writers’ retreat. While she is preoccupied with her feelings for Liam Hemsworth’s character, Owen Brophy, we can’t help but be captivated by the stunning locations featured in the film!
According to FilmiLoc, the hotel showcased in “Lonely Planet” is the Kasbah Bab Ourika, a luxury resort located south of Marrakech, near the town of Ourika. It has received high praise from hotel critics for its beautifully decorated rooms with terraces, breathtaking views, and incredible swimming pools, among other amenities.
But does the writers’ retreat actually exist there? While the specific activity isn’t listed, the Kasbah has adapted to accommodate retreats. According to their website, an 11-bedroom ensuite retreat opened in autumn 2020 for parties, weddings, bridge games, bird watching, painting, dance, yoga groups, family gatherings, and corporate events. This space can be rented individually or together with the main Kasbah, providing a total of 42 available rooms.
The facilities include free Wi-Fi, fireplaces in the lounges, underfloor heating and cooling systems, outdoor furniture, yoga equipment, a heated pool, and more. As you might expect, hiring this service is quite costly, with rates at MAD 36,300 (€3,300) per night for exclusive use of the 11 bedrooms. While there isn’t a dedicated option for a writers’ retreat, one can certainly be organized!
