Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan

The most luxurious hotel we’ve ever stayed in. Everything from start to finish was superb. Our suite was palatial and the bathroom was like entering a spa with a free standing tub, his and her sinks, a huge glass walled shower and best of all a massive balcony with chaises and sofas to lounge on. The view over the Nile was breathtaking. We were showered with all kinds of welcome gifts including fresh fruit, pastries and sweet treats. The infinity edge pool with a stunning view over the Nile was a highlight. Lovely lounge chairs and poolside service from “The Palms” restaurant made relaxing pool side hard to leave. The hotel was built in 1899 and is perched on a granite cliff right on the edge of the Nile overlooking Elephantine Island. Many famous people and dignitaries have stayed here, including Princess Diana, Winston Churchill, Kings and Queens and of course Agatha Christie who wrote “Death on the Nile” while staying here. We enjoyed a highly entertaining tour of the Hotel with Mo from guest services. Winston Churchill’s suite had an immense outdoor patio with a superb view, which presumably allowed him to smoke his cigars in peace. We thoroughly enjoyed the hotel restaurant called the Orient as well as their signature French restaurant 1902. The Afternoon Tea on the Terrace watching the sunset was enjoyable and although it doesn’t come with scones, they made me one when I menitoned I liked scones. So thoughtful. If you are ever in Aswan do yourself a favour and stay at the Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel!

Had two wonderful nights in this legendary hotel. We arrived very early and Our first contact with the staff was a delightful lady called fayrouz from the reception team who welcomed us, explained we could use the facilities until our room was ready and then offered us an upgrade to an opera suite overlooking the Nile. Whilst costly, it was worth it for the sheer indulgent pleasure of staying in such a large and magnificent room…I couldn’t recommend it highly enough and whilst it is undeniably expensive, it’s a real take away memory. Fayrouz kept in touch with us throughout the stay offering advice on what/what not to do to make the most of our short stay, and she was extremely Competent, professional and supportive to us. aswan is a sleepy hollow, by comparison to Cairo anyway, and whilst it is full of the usual street touts trying to sell us cable he or taxi rides, it is relatively easy to shirk them off. We really enjoyed the great for an early evening stroll. In terms of trips out, I would say the highlight for me was Abu Simbel, where is was in the very capabale hands of my guide Abdul, who was extremely diligent, charming and full of humour. A close second for trips out is the island of Philae, which is in such a beautiful setting. It’s easy to do this on your own TBH, if you have a decent guide book. Top tip…find a taxi driver you can trust and then use him all the time for your trips out…it takes the stress out of constant haggling. A trip to Egypt would feel half complete without getting down to Aswan. It’s worth the effort and the old cataract hotel certainly deserves its princely reputation. Well done!

Just enjoyed a lovely high tea on the terrace at this beautiful hotel, followed by a tour of the Agatha Cristie suite by the lovely and knowledgeable Roma. Amazing to think one of the world's greatest mystery writers was inspired by and wrote Death on the Nile here. Would highly recommend, an experience not to be missed!

Absolutely beautiful hotel, a new amazing view around every corner! The high tea was delicious and in a perfect setting. The Agatha Christe and Winston Churchill tour was a wonderful step back into history with a very knowledgeable guide (Roma) and happy to answer any questions and make your experience one to remember! I would highly recommend and if I come back to Egypt I will definitely be back!

Had an amazing afternoon tea and tour around the Agatha Christie suite at The Old Cateract Hotel. Staff so friendly, great service, delicious food and beautiful historic building. Fantastic experience. Roma was very knowledgeable and patient with us and provided a fantastic experience on the tour. Life long ambition achieved ✨️ 😀