Egypt with Palace Hotels

Egypt with Palace Hotels is an unhurried private journey that explores the land of the pharaohs while based at the country’s grand colonial-era hotels. Alternative titles could be ‘Slowly through Egypt’ or ‘Egypt without a Nile Cruise’ – for these are also key differentiating factors that distinguish the Egypt with Palace Hotels itinerary from most other luxury Egypt holidays. Starting in Cairo, this leisurely tour begins with a stay at the Mena House Hotel. Located in the shadow of the famed Pyramids of Giza, and surrounded by 40 acres of gardens, this historic property was originally built in 1869 as a hunting lodge on the edge of the desert for Egyptian royalty. The Mena House is noted for its classic Arabian look – a theme that was repeated in the hotel’s modern Garden Wing - which is where guests stay today. While touring in Cairo with your private Egyptologist guide you will see the Sphinx; Great Pyramid; treasures of the Egyptian museum; and the vibrant alleys of the Khan el Khalili bazaar. Then, fly south to Luxor where you will check-in at the grand Edwardian-style Winter Palace Hotel (opened 1907). On entering this yellow-pastel hued landmark you will arrive in another era: antique furnishings, old engravings, high ceilings, the smell of polish, and exotic gardens give the property the feel of an imposing residence in an exotic outpost of empire. Lord Carnarvon, a patron of the archaeologist Howard Carter and regular guest at the hotel, announced the discovery of Tutankhamen’s Tomb to the world from the steps of the Winter Palace in 1922. After exploring Luxor’s magnificent temples and tombs  – including the Valley of the Kings - with your private guide; the journey continues south via the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo to Aswan, where your room at the glorious Old Cataract Hotel (opened 1900) overlooks the Nile. Sat on a granite bluff overlooking the world’s longest river, the Old Cataract Hotel is considered to be one of the world’s foremost colonial-era properties. While residing at this beautiful Moorish-style hotel with its horseshoe arches and fine Mashrabiya woodwork, you’ll visit the beautiful Temple of Isis on Philae Island, tour the Quarries of the Pharaohs, and enjoy a sunset sailing on the Nile in a traditional lateen-sailed felucca. The Egypt with Palace Hotel’s tour then concludes with a day at leisure to enjoy some of the most beautiful views in Egypt.