The Old Cataract Aswan is an opulent 19th century palace transformed into a luxury hotel. It occupies a prime location on the River Nile, and has a selection of restaurants and swimming pools which make it a haven for both families and couples.
Highlights
A range of room types to suit both couples and families
The Old Cataract is widely regarded as one of Aswan’s most iconic and luxurious hotels. Originally built as a Victorian palace in the late 19th century, this legendary property has been beautifully restored, seamlessly blending elegant Egyptian heritage with refined French influences. Set on the banks of the Nile, the hotel commands sweeping views over Elephantine Island and is perfectly positioned within easy reach of Aswan’s key sights. Throughout the property, from its restaurants and bars to its guest rooms and terraces, the Nile remains ever-present.
Accommodation is divided between the historic Palace Wing and the contemporary Nile Wing, offering two distinct styles of luxury. Rooms and suites combine classical grandeur with modern comfort, featuring marble bathrooms, deluxe amenities and private balconies or terraces overlooking either the Nile or the hotel’s tropical gardens. Guests can choose from a range of room and suite categories, including the Palace Premium and Palace Luxury Rooms, spacious Palace Cataract and Prestige Suites, elegant Opera Suites and the celebrated Agatha Christie and Sir Winston Churchill Suites, both inspired by the hotel’s illustrious former guests.
Dining at The Old Cataract is a highlight in itself. The hotel’s renowned signature restaurant, 1902, serves gourmet French cuisine beneath a magnificent Arabian-style dome, while Saraya offers Mediterranean dishes in an elegant Moorish setting. Oriental Kebabgy specialises in vibrant Middle Eastern and Levantine flavours, and the Terrace provides relaxed al fresco dining overlooking the Nile and Elephantine Island.
There are several atmospheric bars and lounges where guests can enjoy cocktails, traditional hibiscus tea or simply watch life drift by along the Nile. The Promenade and Terrace are particularly magical at sunset, while The Bar offers an intimate, old-world piano lounge atmosphere. The So Spa provides a haven of relaxation with a hammam, Jacuzzi and indoor heated pool, alongside a striking outdoor infinity pool overlooking the Nile. Families are also well catered for, with flexible accommodation options and child-friendly dining available throughout the hotel.
When to visit
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The Movenpick Resort Aswan is located on Elephantine Island in the middle of the Nile with excellent views of the river. It is well-situated for sightseeing but also perfect for relaxing by the pool. Arriving at the hotel by ferry adds to the adventure.
Nubian Museum
The indigenous people of Upper (southern) Egypt and the north of Sudan are known as Nubians, and the Nubian Museum shows off the culture, history and art from ancient times until the present day. The building housing the museum is of local architecture.
Sail Aswan by Felucca
Sail the Nile by felucca passing through sights such as Agha Khan Mausoleum, Kitchener's Island and ending at Elephantine Island.
Unfinished Obelisk
Take in the impressively gigantic Unfinished Obelisk.
Aswan Dam
Understand the history of the famous Aswan Dam.
Sail to Aswan Botanical Garden
For those with longer time, extend your felucca sail and drop off at the Botanical Garden for a stroll.
Temple of Philae
The Temple of Philae is a superb temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis.
Temple of Horus & Kom Ombo
As you make your way between Luxor and Aswan, make a visit to Temple of Horus in Edfu as well as Kom Ombo, where you will find a huge temple dedicated to the God Sobek and Harocies.
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