More than two years after reopening, El Arz Mountain Resort is helping drive Algeria’s mountain tourism strategy through year-round hospitality, sustainable development initiatives, environmental stewardship and support for local economic growth.
BY Dr. Hana Saada
TALA GUILEF, Algeria, July 20— More than two years after reopening, El Arz Mountain Resort continues to strengthen its position as one of Algeria’s leading mountain tourism destinations, supporting the country’s strategy to expand sustainable mountain tourism under the Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts.
Located in the heart of Djurdjura National Park, the resort has emerged as a flagship destination for year-round tourism, combining high-quality hospitality infrastructure with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Through its unique natural setting, modern facilities and service standards, El Arz Mountain Resort is enhancing the attractiveness of the Djurdjura region while contributing to local economic development.
The resort comprises three complementary hospitality establishments serving different market segments: EL ARZ Hotel, dedicated to leisure tourism; EL ARZ Cosy Hotel, designed for family stays; and EL ARZ Resort & Conference Center, catering to business tourism, conferences, seminars and corporate team-building events.
Together, the three properties provide accommodation for nearly 550 guests, offering an integrated hospitality experience that includes accommodation, restaurants, conference and event facilities, wellness amenities and recreational services, positioning the resort as a year-round mountain destination.
A Four-Season Mountain Destination
During the summer months, the mild climate of the Djurdjura Mountains offers visitors a welcome escape from the intense heat experienced across much of Algeria. El Arz Mountain Resort attracts guests from across the country and abroad seeking pristine natural landscapes, fresh mountain air and outdoor recreation.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of supervised outdoor activities, including guided hiking tours led by local mountain guides, mountain biking, trekking, rock climbing, archery and quad-bike excursions, all organised with careful respect for the region’s fragile ecological balance.
In winter, the resort transforms into a mountain retreat offering snow hiking, skiing and a variety of indoor recreational activities, providing visitors with a comprehensive tourism experience throughout the year.
Sustainability at the Core of Development
Environmental responsibility forms a central pillar of El Arz Mountain Resort’s long-term strategy.
Working in close partnership with Djurdjura National Park and local stakeholders, the resort regularly organises environmental awareness campaigns, clean-up initiatives involving visitors and extensive cedar tree planting programmes aimed at preserving the region’s unique ecosystem.
Since 2025, more than 1,000 cedar trees have been planted, while renewable energy solutions have gradually been integrated into the resort’s operations as part of its commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
“Mountain tourism cannot be developed independently of environmental responsibility,” said Farid Zemih, Director of EL ARZ Hotels.
“Sustainability is embedded in every initiative we undertake. Together with Djurdjura National Park and our local partners, we are committed to promoting tourism that safeguards the environment while showcasing the exceptional natural heritage that distinguishes this region.”
Supporting Local Communities
Beyond environmental stewardship, El Arz Mountain Resort plays an important role in supporting regional economic development.
Since reopening, EL ARZ Hotels have created more than 130 direct jobs, contributing to local employment, strengthening tourism-related economic activity and promoting regional expertise.
The resort also works to showcase the cultural heritage of the Djurdjura region by introducing visitors to traditional handicrafts, local gastronomy and the customs and traditions that form part of the area’s rich cultural identity.
By combining premium hospitality, authentic mountain experiences and sustainable tourism practices, El Arz Mountain Resort continues to reinforce its position as one of Algeria’s foremost mountain destinations, offering a comprehensive four-season tourism experience built on service excellence, environmental stewardship and community engagement.
About El Arz Mountain Resort
El Arz Mountain Resort is located in Tala Guilef, at the heart of Djurdjura National Park in Tizi Ouzou Province, and ranks among Algeria’s leading mountain tourism destinations.
Reopened on 25 January 2024, the resort is managed by the state-owned tourism management company EGT Centre, a subsidiary of the HTT Group. It comprises EL ARZ Hotel, EL ARZ Cosy Hotel and EL ARZ Resort & Conference Center, offering accommodation, dining, conference and event facilities, as well as a broad portfolio of mountain tourism activities.
Operating under a long-term vision centred on sustainability, environmental protection and the preservation of the Djurdjura Mountains’ unique natural heritage, El Arz Mountain Resort aims to position Algeria as a premier destination for mountain tourism while contributing to inclusive local development.
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