Sentido Oriental Dream Resort Marsa Alam

The ancient region of Nubia, lined by the Red Sea to the east and the Nile to the west, was once home to some of the earliest and most powerful civilisations in Africa. Now, much of that area is uninhabited, and with its extreme stretches of sun-scorched desert, it’s hard to imagine it ever will be. The coast is a different story – here, you’ll find gloriously lavish resorts that, thanks to the immense size of the region, operate almost like secluded villages. Between the city of El Qoseir and Marsa Alam, Sentido Oriental Dream Resort***** is a huge luxury resort site that sits on a private beachfront. The sun shines here year-round, the sand is ivory, and the sea is crystal-clear and filled with coral reefs.

The resort nods to late Islamic Nubia, with plenty of terracotta-coloured domes, arches and columns designed in tandem with the towering palm trees seen all over the site. Looking to the opulence of Nubia, the gardens are eccentric and immaculately designed, with plenty of sculptural swimming pools and beautiful topiary. You’ll be staying in the Double Room with garden view or with sea view, both occupying a fun dome-shaped structure. Splashes of colour playfully contrast the wood furnishings to create a relaxing, warm space. Not to mention, you’ll love the spacious balcony/terrace that opens out onto your view of choice.

Whether you decide to spend your time poolside, exploring the reefs offshore, or enjoying the entertainment at the amphitheatre, you’re bound to work up a thirst in the hot sun. It’s a good job, then, that the hotel is catered to by no less than nine bars. And when you work up an appetite, head to one of three brilliant restaurants. At Sharazad, you can gorge on inventive buffets, morning, noon and night. Pescatarians will adore the Mangrove’s seafood on the seafront, where you’ll marvel at the charming views of the entrenched mangroves (rather rare for the Red Sea). Or, if hearty Italian is more your thing, La Trattoria’s got you covered, with its delicious grilled dishes. Between all this, you’ll be dancing at the disco, smashing your opponent in a game of tennis, or scuba diving with the local fish. Welcome to Sentido Oriental Dream Resort*****, a marvellous oasis purpose built for your escape.