Grand Palace, Hurghada, Egypt

Rupert Parker reviews the Grand Palace Hurghada on Egypt’s Red Sea.

With its year-round sunshine and stunning scenery, above and below the water, the former fishing town of Hurghada has 20 kilometres of golden sand and luxurious beachside hotels.The Grand Palace is a brand new 5* adult-only hotel in the heart of the town’s resort district, 15 minutes from the town centre.

It’s an attractive property with traditional North African styling blending with modern comfort and water is everywhere. There are three pools to choose from, and a beautiful stretch of sandy beach. Even better some of the rooms have their own private swim-up pool, perfect for an early morning dip.

All 319 rooms and suites have a king-size bed, balcony or terrace, air-conditioning, walk-in shower, WC, bidet, hairdryer, safe, telephone, satellite TV and mini-bar. I stayed in a junior suite which includes a large bedroom, lounge and terrace with private pool access. Colours are pleasantly understated and the beds are extremely comfortable. Robes, slippers and beach towels with basket are standard.

Most people will be here just to chill in the sun, and the pools and private beach are equipped with sun loungers and parasols. There’s a wellness spa with massage treatments but you can also keep active in the fitness centre. Billiards, table tennis, and tennis are available for an extra charge. Nearby is a PADI-approved dive facility and water sports centre.

Although there are cafes, bars and restaurants outside, you’re don’t really have to leave the hotel grounds, particularly since it’s all-inclusive. The main restaurant offers a comprehensive buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner with an outdoor terrace. Other restaurants are a la carte and dedicate themselves to various cuisines including Asian, Mediterranean, seafood and steak. I even had a slice of roasted camel. There’s also a 24-hour snack bar for light meals and snacks.

Drinks are complimentary throughout, although premium wines and spirits attract an extra charge and there’s good waiter service. Four bars include Beach Bar, Pool Bar and Lobby Bar and there’s also a pleasant Cocktail Bar open in the evening with live music or DJ.

I fancied getting out into the desert so went on a quad bike trip to a Bedouin village, complete with camel rides. There’s something particularly exhilarating speeding across the empty sand, setting your own path with the mountains ahead, Of course, in reality, you’re following a guide and there’s no real danger of getting lost.

Taking an excursion, I did an overnight trip to Luxor, around four hours’ drive there and back, which allowed me a glimpse of the real Egypt. I even got to explore the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut’s Temple but it’s thirsty work and I was glad to get back to my little oasis in Hurghada.

Tell Me More About The Grand Palace, Hurghada

The Grand Palace Hurghada, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt

T:: +20 65 3463111

Seven nights, all-inclusive including flights from London Gatwick with Enter Air, 20kg luggage. resort transfers, accommodation, and late check-out cost from £921 per person from Red Sea Holidays. It’s worth checking their website for good value late deals.

EasyJet flies from direct from London Gatwick in under six hours. Transfer to the hotel takes around 15 minutes.

Visas

if you need a visa to enter Egypt, instead of queuing on arrival at the airport you could obtain your Egypt Visa Online as Egypt accepts official digital visas which are normally valid for three months.