Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel & Spa

Top choice in Aswan


The grande dame of Aswan hotels, the Old Cataract is a destination in itself and brings you back to the days of Agatha Christie, who is said to have written part of her novel Death on the Nile here (the hotel certainly featured in the movie). The splendid buildings and well-tended gardens command fantastic views of the Nile and the desert.

The original building of the Old Cataract hotel, now known as the Palace Wing, has 76 rooms, of which more than half are suites. But the biggest change has been brought to the 1960s annexe, the Garden Wing, where all rooms have stunning Nile views. The 1902 Restaurant serves some of the fanciest food on the Nile, while Kebabgy and Saraya serve simpler food in a more relaxed atmosphere. The large pool looks on to the river and the ruins of Elephantine Island, and the two-floor spa has a fitness centre, a hammam, a sauna and Thai therapists.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Aswan attractions

1. Nilometer of Khnum

0.12 MILES

The Nilometer of the Temple of Khnum (plaque number 7) is below the southern balustrade of the temple. Built in the 26th dynasty, the Nilometer's stone…

2. Nilometer of Satet

0.14 MILES

Descending to the river’s edge from beneath a sycamore tree near the Aswan Museum is the Nilometer of the Satet Temple (plaque number 10). Built in late…

3. Aswan Museum

0.16 MILES

The modern annexe of the museum has reopened with a delightful collection of objects, from weapons, pottery and utensils to statues, encased mummies and…

4. Nubia Museum

0.18 MILES

The little-visited Nubia Museum, opposite Basma Hotel, is a treat, a showcase of the history, art and culture of Nubia. Established in 1997 in cooperation…

5. Ruins of Abu

0.19 MILES

The evocative ruins of ancient Abu and the Aswan Museum (partially closed for renovation) lie at Elephantine Island's southern tip. Numbered plaques and…

6. Fatimid Cemetery

0.37 MILES

Among the modern graves are some ruined mud-brick domed tombs, some of which go back to the Fatimid period (9th century). The domes are built on a drum…

7. Elephantine Island

0.46 MILES

Elephantine Island's southern end comprises the site of ancient Abu. Its name meant both 'elephant' and 'ivory' in ancient Egyptian, a reminder of the…

8. Corniche

0.47 MILES

Walking along the Corniche and watching the sunset over the islands and desert across the Nile is a favourite pastime in Aswan. The view from riverside…