Calling the beautiful resort of El Gouna home, this stunning village-like complex found along the sizzling coastline of Egypt oozes elegance. Adored for its Nubian style with the odd Mediterranean touch, everything looks like it has just been refurbished. But its raised positioning has to be one of its biggest highlights. Atop of a 40-foot hill and overlooking an 18-hole golf course and the glittering Red Sea, the views are jaw-dropping.

Managing to maintain a tucked-away vibe, it’s easy to feel like you’re miles away from everything. Its deluxe grounds offer five beautifully designed pool areas, and we can’t recommend the infinity number enough! Decorated with in-pool palm trees with vistas of those stunning golf greens and a glimpse of the coast appearing in the distance, swim close to the edge and enjoy front row seats. This All Inclusive heaven is also home to a choice of premium dining options, guaranteeing all-round luxury. 

Lavish living spaces

Its modern rooms come with the chicest fixtures and fittings. Decorated to perfection, the combination of grey and turquoise is finished off beautifully with light wood walls in the bathroom and behind the bed. And you can enjoy a whole host of premium benefits as standard including a 40-inch LED TV, walk-in shower, a queen-size bed or two twins along with tea and coffee making amenities.

With accommodation ranging from 33 up to 170 square metres, there’s a stay to suit every guest whether you’re holidaying as a family, couple or friends. Opt for suites equipped with a sofa bed or stay in an apartment and take advantage of the extra space and separate rooms. Not to mention the free Wi-Fi – another perk worth shouting about.

International spreads and classic cocktails 

Fairly limited in its offerings, Ancient Sands focuses on quality over quantity. Chefs take pride in their creations with a real emphasis on fresh ingredients, expect gourmet style food packed with flavour. When it comes to beverages,  the bar is always on hand to mix your favourite cocktails.

Dunes: Just above the lobby you’ll find this buffet restaurant. With fancy state-of-the-art lighting adorning the wall, funky seating as well as an outdoor space perfect for al fresco dining, enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner here. Wander its international and local food stations or raid the bread and dessert corner. 

Breakfast is served from 7.00am – 10:30am, lunch from 1pm – 3pm and dinner from 6.30pm – 9.30pm.

Mint Bar & Lounge: Decorated in an Art Deco style with an emphasis on gold, this spot’s smart interiors make for sophisticated evenings enjoying handcrafted martinis and the finest coffee alongside flavourful mocktails. Drinks are served between 11am – midnight.  

Piazza Bar: Take in views of El Gouna as you dine al fresco and snack on light bites. There’s also seating indoors but the vistas outdoors are stunning. You can head here from 8am – 4pm. 

Piazza Restaurant: This dinner-only venue has a bright and airy feel with tables located both indoors and outdoors. There are four set menus themed around Egyptian, Lebanese, Moroccan and seafood. From grilled fish caught that day to traditional lentil soup with a hint of lemon and tasty Lebanese pastries, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Head here from 6.30pm – 9pm every evening.

Dine Around El Gouna: All Inclusive and Half Board guests can also take advantage of this unique concept which lets you experience the local fare in participating restaurants around town. Simply ask at reception for more details.    

Free Wi-Fi and varied facilities

When you’re not browsing the internet with the hotel’s free Wi-Fi access, there’s plenty going on in and around your resort. Take a dip in one of its five pools or chill out in the bubbling outdoor hot tub – there’s no better way to recharge your batteries. Active types may prefer to work off some of those extra holiday calories at the gym or hit the 18-hole championship golf course, which the hotel overlooks. Those wanting to practise their swing may prefer the driving range with professionals on hand to help.

Over in El Gouna, which can be reached via a free shuttle bus, attractions are aplenty. In fact, Ancient Sands offers guests exclusive access to Marina Beach, where you’ll find a scattering of loungers and windshields ensuring a comfortable day on the sand.

A world-class golf course on your doorstep

It doesn’t get much better than a location overlooking a premium golf course. When you’re not admiring its manicured greens and lagoons, the views extend all the way to the Red Sea, while the modern resort of El Gouna is also visible. 

Hurghada is known for its fantastic excursions, and this area is no different. See Egypt’s endless sands up close with an exhilarating desert safari, swim deep below the waves to discover the colourful marine life with nine diving sites at your disposal, or for something completely different take on the inflatable obstacles at Aqua Park.