Soiftel Legend Old Cataract Hotel

The Old Cataract sits upon a shelf of pink granite above the Nile in Egypt. In terms of charm and character, it is truly remarkable. Behind the Victorian facade, you will enter a world of polished marble floors, Moorish domes, high Islamic arches and Persian carpets. There are two wings at the Old Cataract, the Palace Wing comprising 76 rooms and suites, and the more contemporary Nile Wing, with 62 rooms and suites. We loved sitting in the grand shaded terrace, sipping afternoon tea. You half expect to turn your head and see Agatha Christie writing ‘Death on the Nile’ at an adjoining table. 

Rooms at the Old Cataract are typically grand and opulent. In the Nile Wing, the more contemporary styling comes to the fore in their Premium and Luxury Rooms. Rooms come with separate bathtub and showers, large TVs. The Luxury Rooms have the added benefit of a sitting area and terrace. All the rooms in the Nile Wing have Nile views. Palace Premium Garden Views are in the older wing, with a richer, more opulent finish and higher ceilings, yet look over the lush gardens. Palace Luxury Rooms are larger, still with views over the garden. The Palace Cataract Suites are even larger, with Nile or garden views. 

There is a range of dining options at the Old Cataract, with all-day dining at Saraya. There’s a lovely high-domed French restaurant, 1902. We love Oriental Kebabgy, located on the Nile-side terrace. Promenade has a selection of bars overlooking the Nile, perfect for an evening drink. 

There is both a heated indoor pool, outdoor pool, spa and fitness centre. The Old Cataract is perfect for two days of R&R after a cruise down the Nile from Luxor. It also means you can head down to Abu Simbal to see the wonderful temple of Rameses II on your way back to Cairo.