Nestled on the banks of the majestic Nile River in Aswan, Egypt, lies the iconic Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel. With a rich history dating back to 1899, this luxurious hotel has played host to royalty, celebrities, and discerning travellers from around the world. Boasting stunning views of the River Nile and Elephantine Island, impeccable service, and unparalleled amenities, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel is a true oasis of sophistication and elegance in one of Egypt’s most enchanting destinations. In this review of the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan we will take an in-depth look at what makes this historic hotel a standout choice for those seeking a truly unforgettable stay in Aswan.

For those wanting a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the world’s most iconic hotels a stay at the Old Cataract Hotel is all it is hyped up to be and more.

You have a choice of staying in the Palace Wing or the New Wing or like us try and night in both.

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You can view our YouTube Video here of our stay at the Old Cataract Hotel Aswan

We decided to stay one night in the Old Wing in the Palace Opera Suite and then the 2nd night in the New Wing in their Luxury Room.

Good to know: You do need to book in advance for both wings.  We booked 6 months out and the only room available with Nile View was the Palace Opera Suite and that was only for the first night.

We had travelled from Luxor to Aswan on Malouka – a Dahabiya boat from Nour El Nil. Our transfer to the Old Cataract was at 10 am which meant that we were too early to check in. As we entered we were seated in one of the many small lounge areas and offered a cool drink.  Our Suite was not available, but would be ready by 2.

Luckily, we had a tour booked by a felucca to the Aswan Botanical Gardens, then a visit by motor boat to the Monastery of San Simeon followed by tea at the Nubian Village a short distance away.

Our tours in Aswan were part of our tour provided by Egyptian Edu Travel. We chose them for their professionalism and references from a colleague.  During our tours in Egypt we opted for a private driver and car and an Egyptologist to travel with us.

We were so impressed with their services we have partnered with them. This means that you will get a discount if you mention our promo code TTT2024. Please contact: [email protected] for quotes.

Check-in at the Old Cataract Hotel Aswan – Palace Wing

The entrance to the Old Cataract Hotel is grand and impressive. Large vases of freshly cut flowers adorn the entrance table, chandeliers shimmer in the light, antique furniture and rich Egyptian fabrics were used in the several sitting areas. The Library off to the right was filled with historical books and maps of Ancient Egypt.

Our concierge took us to our 90 sq m suite with a terrace overlooking the River Nile.  We were stunned by the beauty of the separate living and dining room.  The terrace was small in comparison but still large enough for both of us to sit and enjoy the comings and goings of boats up and down the River Nile. We appreciated the gift of the Sofitel macaroons, pastries, lots of fresh fruit and sparkling water.

We loved the rich colourings of the fabrics used in all rooms. The Sofitel My Bed is always a favourite of ours, large and comfy and the luxurious Egyptian cotton used, makes a great night’s sleep.

The oversized bathroom had a separate shower, bath and toilet and an ample supply of Sofitel’s luxury toiletries. The towels large and fluffy as well as bath robes and slippers. There is a pillow menu available.

High speed internet, Cable TV and plenty of charging points were available. The Business Desk was located near the Dining Table and had plenty of electrical sockets close by for our electronics.

We were provided with coffee and tea making facilities, complimentary minerl water, fridge, kettle, espresso machine and bottled water.

We wanted to make the most of our stay in the Opera Suite and ordered room service after enjoying a cocktail in The Bar downstairs.

Our Experience in the Luxury Room in the New Wing of the Old Cataract Hotel Aswan

We relocated to the New Wing and stayed in their Luxury Room. Our bags were transferred whilst we were visiting Philae Temple.

Our room was full of colour and light with an oversized bathroom and balcony measuring 62 sq m. Opulent bright and colourful furnishings were used throughout. A large seating area gave us plenty of space to sit back and relax after our tour.

Coffee and tea-making facilities, complimentary mineral water, mini bar, kettle, Nespresso machine and bottled water was available.

Bathrobes and slippers were provided in the spacious bathroom as well as Sofitel’s luxury toiletries.

We enjoyed our favourite Sofitel My Bed and luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets.

Colour TV, high-speed internet and plenty of electrical sockets were provided in the room.

The New Wing Rooms offer excellent views over the pool, Old Cataract Palace Wing and the River Nile. You can sit and watch the comings and goings all day long, there is so much to see and do. The sunrises and sunsets are stunning.

Dining Options at the Old Cataract Hotel Aswan

The Terrace with views over the Nile is open from 8 am to 11 pm.

The French Inspired 1902 restaurant is open for a buffet breakfast from 6 am to 10.30 am. Western and Egyptian hot dishes were available, and pastries, cereals, fruit, cold meats and cheeses were available. The service is exceptional in the restaurant.

In the evening 1902 restaurant is open from 7 pm to 11 pm. Reservations are required. The dress code is jackets for gentlemen.  If you did not bring a jacket they can supply one for you to wear.

Oriental Kebabgy is open from 7 pm and 12 pm and offers a relaxed regional menu for diners.

Saraya is open from 7 am to 11 pm and offers dining inside and on the terrace for Mediterranean cuisine.

Facilities at the Old Cataract Hotel Aswan

There is an outdoor swimming pool that is open from 7 am to 6 pm.

A 2nd adults only inside pool is located in the Spa and open from 9 am to 9 pm.

There is a fully equipped fitness centre in the New Wing.

The Sofitel SPA is open from 9 am to 9 pm and is located in the New Wing.

Tour of the Old Cataract Hotel

Every afternoon around 5 pm a Tour of the Old Cataract Hotel is available to guests.

Not only do you learn the history of the hotel but depending on availability you can view the Agatha Christie Suite (Room 1201) and the Winston Churchhill Suite.

The Palace Wing started construction in 1899 and the New Wing in 1961.

Agatha Christie stayed in the hotel for 1 year in 1935 to finish her book – Death on the Nile. The hotel had an original copy of the book but in 2008 it was moved to the Alexandria Library. Agatha Christie died in 1976. You can watch the movie in your room. Her suite measures 175 sq m. It is furnished in her favourite colours. You can reserve the Suite but will expect to pay between USD4000 and USD9000 including breakfast. Her Suite is also known as the Presidential Suite. We were fortunate to be able to view it. It is stunning.

Winston Churchhill Suite aka Royal Suite is where most of the Presidents have stayed, King Farouk, Diana Princess of Wales, Margaret Thatcher to name a few. The Suite comes with a kitchen and personal butler. You can expect to pay between USD5000 – USD10000.  The balcony is large and has the best views over the River Nile.

As part of the tour you visit the 1902 Restaurant.  Along the walls on the way to the 1902 Restaurant you can see photos of famous guests that have stayed in the hotel.

In conclusion, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan is truly a remarkable destination that offers guests a luxurious and unforgettable experience. From its stunning location overlooking the Nile River to its elegant accommodations and exceptional service, this historic hotel captures the essence of old-world charm and sophistication. Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway or simply looking to indulge in a pampering retreat, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel is sure to exceed your expectations and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. With its timeless beauty and unparalleled hospitality, it is no wonder why this iconic hotel continues to be one of Egypt’s most beloved destinations.

Location of the Old Cataract Hotel Aswan

Address: Abtal El Tahrir Street 81511 Aswan

The hotel is located 18.7 km from Aswan Airport.

You can book a private airport transfer here

General Travel Information for Egypt

Flights to Egypt – we use Skyscanner to get the latest fare deals for more information click here.

Need an e-sim? We travelled throughout Egypt with Holafly. The coverage was excellent even in the middle of the desert from Aswan to Abu Simbel. They don’t offer hotspots to your other devices at this stage. Click here to purchase.

Visa for Egypt

Depending on what passport you carry you can obtain a visa on arrival at major Egyptian airports.

If you prefer for someone to organise it on your behalf you can use our partner – ivisa.

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Where to next?

2 days in Abu Simbel

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