Follow In The Footsteps Of ......

Cataract also means rapids, which was how the Nile used to be when this iconic hotel was built by Thomas Cook in 1899. Agatha Christie wrote many whodunnits in her suite and the hotel’s dining room also played host to Sir Winston Churchill, Baroness Thatcher in the 80s, as well as Tutankhamen tomb discoverer Howard Carter.

Having been completely refurbished over the past two years, the hotel has reopened as the five-star Sofitel Legend Old Cataract and now includes 138 elegant rooms and suites, 4 restaurants, 4 bars, 5 meeting rooms, outdoor pool and sumptuous Spa with 8 treatment rooms, hamman, sauna and indoor plunge pool. Behind its Victorian façade, the hotel retains much of its original beauty, including the historic lobby with polished marble floors and classic Islamic arches.

The hotel offers two different experiences for its guests - the Old Palace Wing where the heritage features have been preserved in the 76 rooms and suites plus the Nile Wing that has been lavishly designed with contemporary elegance and features 62 rooms and suites.

Located in the Nubian desert on the banks of the Nile, opposite 3,000 year-old garrison ruins on Elephantine island, it is majestically positioned on a shelf of pink granite overlooking the world’s longest river.

So what to do while there? You can do as much or as little as you wish. Lounge by the swimming pool. Take felucca rides to Botanical Island and the Tombs of the Nobles on the desert side. Or visit the Temple of Isis at Philae and the temples and statuary at Abu Simbel.

If the elegant style of the 1930s is something you crave – or if you have a longing to discover the amazing sites of ancient Egypt, then why not talk to Haslemere Travel’s team of expert consultants? Founders Andrew and Di Brownrigg enjoyed a fascinating trip to this region last year and can recommend a range of hotels to suit all tastes and budgets. Call 01428 658777 for a consultation now.