In a Nutshell
The Mena House is Cairo’s landmark hotel, located right beside the Great Pyramids of Giza. Set within 40 acres of jasmine-scented gardens, the hotel affords one of the best locations in Cairo.
At a Glance
- Possibly the best location in Cairo, next to Pyramids
- Only the newer wing is currently open
- Lovely gardens
- Modern, international style rooms
The Detail
The Mena House opened in 1869 as the hunting lodge for Khedive Isma’il Pasha. It was a private residence before being turned into a hotel in 1886. For instance, an illustrious guest list has stayed in the hotel, from Arthur Conan Doyle, Churchill, President Nixon, Agatha Cristie, Frank Sinatra and Charlie Chaplin.
The hotel comprises of the historic Palace Wing, which is currently under extensive renovation, and the newer Garden Wing.
Opt for either a Deluxe Garden View Room or the recommended Premier Pyramid View Room. Rooms feature wooden floors, marble bathrooms, a private balcony, flatscreen TVs, safe, minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. The rooms should be described as equivalent to a modern international hotel. This is because the Garden Wing was constructed in the late 1970s. Rooms in the Palace Wing are, as we said, under extensive renovation.
The main restaurant, 139, serves both indoor and outdoor al la carte menus. The Moghul Gallery is a speciality Indian restaurant. In addition, there is also a Pool Bar located close to the main swimming pool. You can enjoy a fitness centre as well as an outdoor heated pool.
Millis Potter Insight
Firstly, Mena House simply has the best location in Cairo. For example, you can have a drink or meal overlooking the Pyramids. However, the fantastic Palace Wing is currently under renovation. As a result, only the newer Garden Wing is open. Moreover, the rooms are fairly bland international style. In addition, some of the more atmospheric restaurants are also under renovation. So, it comes down to a desire to be close to the Pyramids. However, you will find better quality rooms and cuisine in other hotels in Cairo.