1889 Elegance and other Aswan, Egypt Hotel/Accommodation Reviews

A legendary hotel, the Sofitel Old Cataract is the place to stay in Aswan, where countless famous figures have stayed. Dating from 1889, this hotel has conserved its old world charm and its neo-Moorish interior. It offers grand rooms with lofty ceilings and views of the Nile or the hotel's surrounding gardens. It is currently run by the Sofitel/Accor group, and while it could use a big facelift, it is certainly the best hotel in the city. I did not stay here because it was fully booked, but I stayed at the New Cataract annex and was able to use the amenities of Old Cataract.


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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: most expensive
Prices: US$180 and up  » Currency Converter
Phone: (+20) 97 231-6000
Address: Abtal El Tahrir Street
Website: http://www.sofitel.com/sofitel/fichehotel/gb/sof/1666/fiche_hotel.shtml
Other Contact: H1666@accor.com

Although considered a separate hotel, the New Cataract Hotel is part of the same establishment as the Old Cataract Hotel, run by Sofitel. It was built as an annex on the grounds of the original hotel during a time when aesthetics mattered least. This ugly construction, in my opinion, does not complement the beauty original hotel in any way and serves only to block its southern views and sun! That said, the New Cataract Hotel itself has stunning views of the Nile, and likely much better than its older counterpart. Unfortunately, this is currently its primary trait, for the interior of the hotel looks more like a 1970's hospital ward. Yes, everything is from that era. The other advantage to staying here is being on the grounds of the Old Cataract Hotel and using its amenities (at a lower cost), such as the restaurant, bar and swimming pool. I stayed at the New Cataract because Old Cataract was fully booked, but I must confess I thoroughly enjoyed the views overlooking the Nile and Aswan from my private balcony (see attached photo). For this reason, I would consider returning to this hotel.


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Theme: Hotel
Comparison: more expensive than average
Prices: US$80-120  » Currency Converter
Phone: (+20) 97 231-6000
Address: Abtal el Tahrir Street
Other Contact: H1666@accor.com