The Red Sea, popularized by famous winter sun destinations like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada in Egypt, is usually a go-to for winter sun seekers. Perfect weather year-round and mid-length flights further boost the ideal conditions for holidaymakers on our side of the world. Not to mention, holiday packages can make planning a trip on short notice a lot easier.
However, for those looking for something a little more exclusive, yet surprisingly attainable, there is a spot well-known to Egyptians and kitesurfing enthusiasts—but yet to be discovered by Britons. It’s a little oasis of beauty and comfort: El Gouna.
Located just 30 minutes north of Hurghada, El Gouna is a plush, self-contained resort town that boasts a world of activities and a range of lavish hotels catering to all types of getaways—from honeymoons to family holidays and golfing trips.
During my 5-night holiday, I was able to sample only a few of the many excursions and comforts this town has to offer. My adventure started with a thrilling desert quad bike safari, where I visited a Bedouin encampment at sunset.
Staying at the Steigenberger Golf Resort offered an outlook into the more mature, relaxed side of the resort, where crowds vary from families with young children to seniors golfing on the hotel’s own 18-hole championship golf course located on the other side of the lagoon.
Other parts of the town lend themselves to a more active stay, like the famed Mangroovy Beach—one of the most popular spots among kitesurfers—and the sophisticated Casa Cook Hotel, which is adjacent to a kite centre for those who like to get up and go.
As well as stunning golden sand beaches, El Gouna is home to incredible coral reefs and wrecks, such as the famous Sha’ab El Erg and Careless Reef, which can be explored on snorkeling and diving tours.
Transfers within the town take no longer than 20 minutes, making it easy—and highly recommended—to plan a variety of activities within a day. For those seeking a truly local experience, tuk-tuks provide a whimsical way to explore the town, allowing for spontaneous stops that make exploring fun and effortless.
When it comes to dining and nightlife, Abu Tig Marina and the Downtown area are the places to be. These lively spots feature local shops and restaurants with something for everyone.
At dusk and in the evening, these areas come to life as hotspots for visitors looking to try different cuisines—ranging from the top-rated African eatery Bongoyo to Camino, a lively Latin restaurant.
I’d strongly recommend anyone visiting El Gouna to create their own scent as a holiday keepsake at Norshek, a charming store selling hair and body products made with natural oils. Here, you can customize your body butter, hand wash, perfume, or hair conditioner to your liking.
Try a blend of oud and pomegranate for a sweet and indulgent, long-lasting mix.
For Indian food lovers, Tandoor is a must-visit. Not only does it boast a privileged location overlooking the entire marina, but it also offers superb fare with all the classics plus a few unique fusion dishes.
Fanadir Marina offers a more upscale, quieter atmosphere where diners can enjoy uninterrupted views of docked boats while savoring a dimly lit supper or shopping for clothes.
Among the dining options, Villa Caracas is the place to go for traditional Lebanese cuisine, while the neighboring restaurant Marzipan serves authentic Egyptian fare in abundant portions that are ideal for sharing.
Another highlight of El Gouna is its proximity to Luxor, a day tour that begins with a surreal drive through the desert and showcases some of Egypt’s most spectacular landmarks. These include the colossal Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings—an ancient royal burial ground from Egypt’s New Kingdom.
For those staying overnight in Luxor, adventurers can enjoy a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. This offers stunning views of many ancient landmarks, including the imposing mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, and a striking contrast between the lush, cultivated fields lining the Nile River and the surrounding desert and mountains.
https://www.express.co.uk/travel/articles/2111424/beautiful-beach-destination-warm-october-weather
