WITH golden beaches, turquoise water everywhere and 365 days of sunshine a year — it is unsurprising that Egypt is a paradise.
El Gouna, dubbed the “Venice of the Red Sea”, was created just 36 years ago – and it offers everything you would imagine a holiday of a lifetime should.
Built on 36 interlocked islands, surrounded by gorgeous lagoons, on 10km of sprawling beaches – this really was a world I’d never experienced before.
Following a 40-minute drive from Hurghada Airport, we arrived at the intriguing gated city.
I really felt like I stepped into a movie set in paradise, with the crystal clear waters, palm trees and charming pastel-coloured buildings.
From the moment I arrived at the five-star Steigenberger Golf Resort, I was struck by the captivating views, alluring beaches and its thoughtful design.
On check-in, we were informed of the ambassador program in El Gouna’s hotels.
Each guest has a go-to staff member that will help with everything – from room service to booking tuk-tuks.
Just a quick WhatsApp message and a glass of wine will be at your door.
The enormous king-size bed, with plush linens, was incredibly snug.
One of my favourite features in the room was the balcony, which overlooked the resort’s lush landscapes and the sparkling waters of the Red Sea.
Each morning, sipping coffee while soaking in the stunning scenery became a cherished ritual.
FINE FEAST
The buffet at the Steigenberger Golf Resort had a diverse mix of options each morning and night.
There was a nice balance between local Egyptian cuisine and international dishes.
Every time I walked around the buffet I seemed to find more sections.
I quickly discovered a new favourite dessert, basbousa – a kind of semolina cake – and I was spoiled for choice with the selection of cocktails.
My favourite place to dine in the resort was Harumaki, El Gouna’s only teppanyaki restaurant, where talented chefs dished up mouthwatering dishes right in front of us.
DINE AROUND
With many of the hotels in El Gouna teaming up together, guests have the opportunity to explore the “Dine Around” options at other resorts, so you can experience life in each hotel.
The packages entice guests to try different hotel buffets and restaurants at an all-inclusive, full-board or half-board rate.
With 40 per cent of food in El Gouna sourced locally, there’s over 100 restaurants to try.
Dining at Cook’s Club, Casa Cook and The Chedi added a fabulous twist to indulging in El Gouna’s foodie scene.
The resort boasted numerous facilities and activities for all the family.
GETTING THINGS DONE
Whether it was lounging by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or trying my hand at golf, there was never a dull moment.
El Gouna’s vast 18-hole championship golf course has attracted golfers from all over the world, and other fun activities nearby include banana boat rides, tube rides, parasailing and wakeboarding.
Other fun activities nearby include banana boat rides, tube rides, parasailing and wakeboarding.
One of the highlights of the trip for me was the treasure hunt, which was not only fun but also a fantastic way to explore the town.
From boat trips to kayak challenges, this hunt had our adrenaline pumping while we discovered all El Gouna has to offer.
SAFARI ADVENTURE
The town hosts an annual treasure hunt for visitors in October, while smaller hotel hunts take place throughout the year.
Another thrilling excursion for me was a desert trip with Alex Safari where we learned all about the Bedouin families that live in the Red Sea Mountains.
We sped across the Sahara Desert on dune buggies and quad bikes until a magnificent sun set stopped us in our tracks.
El Gouna encourages tourists to enjoy all the hotels have to offer – so that’s exactly what I did.
ADULT-ONLY RESORT
An afternoon in the adults-only resort Casa Cook was a treat.
The desert-style oasis boasted gorgeous suites, poolside bars and panoramic views of the Red Sea.
I was blown away with my first kitesurfing lesson at Casa Cook’s onsite Duotone kite centre.
Then it was time to unwind in the Beach Club, where the DJ played the perfect sunset chill-out tunes.
Egypt‘s first-and-only Leading Hotel of the World, The Chedi El Gouna, was the perfect beachfront resort for soaking up the sun in style.
PRIVATE BEACH BLISS
Unwinding on the private beach and by the tropical-style pools was pure bliss.
Sipping a cocktail as the sun went down at the award-winning rooftop speciality sushi restaurant Nihon was the perfect way to end the day.
Couples will also love the adult-only Cook’s Club hotel, perched on the shores of Egypt’s Red Sea.
With its own private saltwater lagoon, beach and jetty, it’s the perfect spot for some water fun.
Top activities include yoga classes, kitesurfing, windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving and horse riding.
There are lots of luxurious and affordable places to stay among Orascom’s 18 hotels.
SAFE AND SOUND
I felt extremely safe walking around the gated community of El Gouna.
A great way to explore is by bike and the Baddel app makes it effortless to rent a bike.
What I loved most about the area was the pastel colour scheme of pinks, reds, oranges, yellows and earthy tones that all buildings must adhere to.
As one of the most sustainable spots in Africa, El Gouna has a dedicated solar plant providing a significant portion of the town’s energy needs.
SUSTAINABLILITY EFFORTS
The town has a zero-waste system, meaning over 85 per cent of all waste is reused and recycled.
It also recycles 100 per cent of its water via its onsite management plant.
Their commitment to sustainability is seen throughout from bamboo straws in bars to their eco-friendly transport.
And the best way to get around is by tuk-tuk, which always costs 80 cent no matter the distance.
GO: EL GOUNA, EGYPT
GET THERE: We flew to London and onwards with EasyJet, which you can also get from Belfast.
STAY THERE: Live in luxury at the 5 H Steigenberger Golf Resort, with night stays starting from €103.63.
DO THERE: Lagoon boat trips, desert trip and kite surfing are all so much fun, and try the scavanger hunt. The Mega Alex Safari start from €35.
EAT THERE: Try the Dine Around programme, so you get to have a different dining experience every night.
I loved strolling around Abu Tig Marina – lined with impressive yachts and bustling restaurants.
Fanadir Marina and Abydos Marina were perfect spots to catch some rays while people-watching.
While exploring the marinas, I learned about The El Gouna Float Fest with boat parties, live DJs, and gigs – and I will definitely be returning to sample that.
BAZAAR BUZZ
For those who love to shop, there’s plenty of boutiques and bazaars dotted around.
Egyptian House has a selection of homemade items and gifts which help support local women.
A must-see is the El Gouna Conference and Culture Centre with its striking archways set against the backdrop of neighbouring mountains and nearby traditional-style homes.
This captivating space, that’s perfect for selfies, hosts Egyptian and multinational events.
I now understand El Gouna’s official motto, “You will never want to leave”, and have proudly become a “gounie”.
