Been To Egypt & Seen It All? Not Yet!
For many keen travellers, Egypt is always on the ‘list’ and a trip to Cairo, cruise on the Nile or a week in the sun by the Red Sea is a must. Some, looking for something slightly different may venture to Hurghada, Luxor or Aswan, but rarely will you hear them mention Siwa, located 50km east of the Libyan border.
Although the drive from Cairo to Siwa is a good eight hours and if travelling from the UK, it would be advisable to have a day or so in Cairo prior to making this journey, it is well worth every sandy mile across the Sahara. The Adrère Amellal Eco-lodge is the jewel in Siwa's crown.
This eco-lodge has been written about by Conde Nast Traveller and many glossy fashion monthly’s for many years and it is easy to see why. Designed by environmentalist Mounir Neamatallah, this creation has no electricity, relying on solar and alternative energy and recycles all its own waste and water. All 39 rooms have walls made of rock salt, palm for roofing and are built in traditional Siwan style.
Whilst a wonder to behold during the day, with the Sahara dessert to one side and Siwa Oasis on the other (a lake over 10km wide) it is at nighttime when the magic ignites. Having no electricity means, that candles and a few oil lamps light the entire property. Each room is illuminated by the starry dessert sky and a handful of beeswax candles made locally in Siwa, using traditional methods and materials. A truly romantic and breathtaking atmosphere that exudes luxury but in an eco-friendly kind of way.
Attention to detail and personal service are the most important part of the guests stay at this resort. Every evening, dinner is served in a different location to provide one of many unique experiences throughout your stay. The cuisine is exquisite and includes traditional dishes cooked in honey-glazed clay pots. All herbs and vegetables are handpicked from the organic herb garden. With no reception, check-in times or signing bills, the desire is that you feel ‘at home’ or as if you were staying with friends.
A three or four night stay at this unique property is definitely a must for those who want to experience individual attention and an experience like no other, away from the hustle and bustle of modern day life. If you are an electronic gadget addict or need to be in contact with the outside world, then this property is not for you, but if there is a way to escape for a few days then this is it.
Popular with the rich, famous and royalty alike you will not need to worry about your carbon footprint when staying in this desert oasis.
