Located near the town of M’Hamid, where the last of the palm groves peter out and the first isolated sand dunes rise, Dar Azawad is remarkably luxurious and stylish for such a remote location. Smooth tadlakht (plastered) walls, exposed wooden ceiling beams, bold fabric colourings and ornate brass lamps all convey a very Moroccan feel, whilst the furnishing and beds is comfortable and decorative. Extensive gardens make for peaceful, leafy surroundings, and there’s a very pleasant pool to enjoy. To use a cliché, Dar Azawad really is an oasis to retreat to after exploring the region (and a good base for visiting the Erg Chigaga if you don’t want to overnight at the dunes).