The Mövenpick Resort & Spa El Gouna is truly an oasis in the desert. Like a a luxurious mirage rising from the sandy dunes, El Gouna appears after a thirty minute drive from Hurghada through the desert. Built from nothing by Samih Sawiris nearly twenty years ago, El Gouna is a one-of-a-kind retreat. Every detail and amenity has been meticulously selected and imported to location, including the luscious flora. The resort is renowned for it’s gorgeous private beach, snorkeling and other watersports.

This five-star resort, established in December 1995, is the biggest and most luxurious of hotels in the area. The accommodations are dispersed over eight clusters, allowing guests space and privacy. All the rooms have astonishing views of the sea, lagoons, or lavish gardens. The moderate décor and minimalist styles of the resort are sleek and elegant. The small pops of color and modern furnishings add to the paradise constructed all around.

There are four exquisite restaurants on the premises. Breakfast is served daily at the Palavrion buffet, as well as other courses with a changing international theme. You’ll be able to sample the most delectable and delicious dishes from around the world with your choice of indoor or outdoor seating. El Sayadin Restaurant offers up fresh and flavorful choices right from the sea. Enjoy the catch of the day or a seafood specialty as you watch the waves from this beach-side restaurant. Craving pasta? Il Limone Restaurant serves some of the best Mediterranean and Italian cuisine in the region. For those feeling something with savory spice should try Bua Khao for an incomparable Thai experience.

El Gouna has 2km of private beach, waiting to be explored and exploited for fun. You will have access to two fully outfitted gyms, four lavish swimming pools, a plush health club two tennis courts, and a squash court. There’s a highly acclaimed golf course within a kilometer. Take a ride on Dede or Dudu, the resorts lovable camels who walk the beach for guests. For those seeking a watery adventure, El Gouna is the perfect resort. A visit to the ‘Emperor Divers’ Kitepeople’ kitesurfing center will have you squared away for a day of kitesurfing. You’ll also be able to surf, explore reefs and aquatic life while diving and snorkeling, or engage in other watersports and activities.

The wellness facilities at the Mövenpick Resort & Spa El Gouna are high-class and staffed by masterly masseuses. The treatments, massages, and beautification techniques are seemingly unlimited. They use knowledge from around the world, offering special regiments from both East and West.

“Calm your mind and take in the serenity of your surroundings. The treatments at Angsana Spa range from specially created massages to facials, body polishes, skin enhancers and the Essence of Angsana package. Enjoy the difference and leave the cares of the world behind.”

Despite current Egyptian national struggle, El Gouna is a safe place away from the conflict. As well as standard security, they have metal detectors after the main doors for added guest security. The village of El Gouna is as quaint and peaceful as it is beautiful and blissful. It is broken up into two centers of activity, Downtown and Marinatown. Marinatown is a Red Sea exclusive, designed by the Italian architect Alfredo Freda. If you fall in love while your visiting, El Gouna Neighborhoods have private villas and exclusive homes, all on the waterfront and available for purchase.

Chris Irvine recently stayed at this luxurious resort for two days and wrote about it for Daily Mail. To hear about the trip, check out the article. You can book a room or suite now from The Mövenpick Resort & Spa El Gouna or visit the site to get a glimpse of the sultry haven. You can also learn about the community of El Gouna, the town, its attractions, and the green environmental work they’ve been doing. Is this a place you’d visit? Let us know in the comments!

Photo Credits: whitesky.org, dailymail.co.uk/