Where to go for a beach break in Egypt
Egypt is a top choice for a beach break, as it is home to vast stretches of golden sand, year-round sunshine and inviting turquoise waters on its Red Sea coast. Add high-end hotels and restaurants into the mix and you've got all you need for a wonderful break.
There are numerous places you can head to for a luxurious seaside getaway, but here are three of the top choices if you're thinking of visiting the north African nation.
Sharm el Sheikh
Sharm el Sheikh, on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is one of the most popular Red Sea resorts in the country. There is plenty to do here, from scuba diving and windsurfing to quad biking and yoga, so if you're up for an active trip you won't be disappointed.
Many people book holidays in Sharm el Sheikh purely for the world-class scuba diving - and with sites such as the wreck of the Thistlegorm, Yolanda Reef and Jackson Reef easily accessible, it's easy to understand why. Even if you only snorkel, you'll be amazed by the colourful world you will discover beneath the surface.
If lying in the sun all day and chilling out at a restaurant or bar in the evening is more your idea of a top holiday, Sharm can cater for you too. There is a plethora of restaurants serving all kinds of food - from local specialities to international cuisine - as well as some top bars to relax in with a cool drink. Camel Bar is one of the oldest and most popular in the town, while Pacha and Pangaea are just two of the clubs where you can dance until the sun comes up.
Hurghada
Located further south than Sharm on the main stretch of Egyptian coast is Hurghada, which also developed initially as a popular scuba diving resort. While a host of water sports are on offer in Hurghada, it is also a great choice if you're after a luxurious break.
The marina has developed into a chic location where high-quality restaurants sit side-by-side with trendy bars. The Nubian is a good option if you want to sample some local dishes, but to really push the boat out head to B's at Marina, which fuses Egyptian and gourmet cuisine. To give you an idea of what to expect, one of the specialities is camel steak with chocolate sauce.
As well as sumptuous food, you'll be able to truly relax by spending a day at one of Hurghada's spas, or you could take a daytrip to nearby El Gouna, which boasts an 18-hole golf course, as well as some stunning stretches of sand.
Marsa Alam
This is one of the most southerly resorts on the Red Sea Riviera and, as a result, tends to be a little quieter than Sharm or Hurghada. If you enjoy scuba diving, you'll have access to some fantastic sites from Marsa Alam, including Elphinstone Reef - an offshore pinnacle where sharks and other large marine creatures are often spotted. Kite surfing is another popular activity here, so you can try your hand at a new sport above water, too.
If relaxation is your priority, consider staying in one of the high-end resorts near the Port Ghalib Marina, which was designed with luxury in mind. The harbour provides berths for 1,000 yachts, while the hotels here are equipped with top-quality restaurants and excellent spa and wellness facilities.
