Tucked away along the Red Sea coast of Egypt, El Gouna has become known for its kaleidoscopic lagoons and upscale residencies. Not too long ago, however, the site was simply a barren stretch of desert. In 1989, Samih Sawiris, an Egyptian entrepreneur and owner of Orascom Development, began building the town. Canals and artificial lagoons were constructed alongside a series of residencies built in line with a harmonious architectural style. Inspirited by traditional Nubian designs alongside some more contemporary influences, the town is now filled with dome-topped homes, palatial archways and clean-cut lines. A Mediterranean colour palette of terracotta red, ochre, and white-washed beige make the town shimmer against the azure Red Sea.
Now an epicentre for sustainable tourism and modern urban planning in the region, El Gouna is a popular destination for visitors to Egypt. Here are some of our favourite design-focused spots to visit.
Where to stay in El Gouna
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Envisioned by architect Olivier Sednaoui, La Maison Bleue is one of the more intimate hotels in El Gouna; home to only thirteen suites, the property is decked out with parquet floors, marble stairways, lofty ceilings, and a collection of antiques from local collector Amr Khalil. The residence boasts a powder blue facade, with the surrounding landscaped gardens home to a greenhouse that provides fresh produce for chef Vincent Guillou’s kitchen. Find out more.
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Equipped with a classical Egyptian facade – think domed rooftops and sweeping arched windows – The Chedi is one of El Gouna’s top-tier luxury hotels. The rooms are sleek and modern, featuring eggshell walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, and crisp white linens. An earthy colour palette and mahogany furnishings break up the monotony, with thoughtful pottery pieces and works from local artisans also adorning the surfaces. Be sure to visit the onsite spa, too; equipped with two traditional marble-lined hammams, the spot is the perfect place to truly unwind. thechedielgouna.com
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What to see
Occupying an area of one million square feet, Desert Breath is a land art installation representing an exploration of infinity. Created by Danae Stratou (installation artist and sculptor), Alexandra Stratou (industrial designer and architect) and Stella Konstantindis (architect), the piece is so large in magnitude that it can be viewed in satellite images taken from Google Earth.
By displacing 8,000 cubed metres of sand in the El Gouna desert, the team created a series of conical formations and troughs, which themselves form two interlocking spirals. Completed in March 1997, erosion has led to the slow disintegration of the work – as intended by the artists to mark the passage of time. Visitors can see the formation close up and walk the spiral pathway itself, though the best way to appreciate Desert Breath is from a bird's eye view in the mountains overlooking the site.
Designed by London-based Studio Seilern Architects, the Gouna Conference and Culture Centre is an awe-inspiring structure built within a moated plaza. Consisting of a trio of 20-metre-high colonnades, the pavilion provides shade from the sun and shelter from the wind. The use of the arch draws influences from traditional Egyptian architecture, with the palatial columns also acting as a nod to the ancient sites located nearby in Luxor. A multi-functioning space featuring a 600-seat concert hall, the plaza is used to host a range of events, most notably the annual El Gouna Film Festival.
Located along the Red Sea, El Gouna plays host to a range of water sports – windsurfing, paddle boarding, and sailing are amongst some of the most popular options. The region's crystal clear waters and abundant coral reefs also make for prime snorkelling conditions. Zeytouna Beach and Mangroovy Beach are particularly spectacular, with brightly patterned clownfish, parrotfish and butterflyfish all in abundance.
Best restaurants in El Gouna
Occupying a rooftop at The Chedi, Nihon boasts a dazzling sea view in refined surroundings; dark mahogany furnishings, an open kitchen, and relaxed bar seating define the space. Serving up a range of Japanese dishes, this El Gouna restaurant specialises in sushi – think fresh local fish and vibrant, punchy flavours.
Located along the Abu Big Marina, Tandoor’s terrace promises uninterrupted views of luxury boats and superyachts docked nearby. This restaurant serves a selection of authentic Indian cuisine, with its chef hailing from Bangalore. Favourites include their richly spiced paneer and decadent syrup-laced gulab jamun dessert.
Founded in 1935, Cafe Younes has been brewing coffee for over 80 years, establishing itself as a household name in Lebanon after opening multiple cafes in Beirut. Daily Dose, their outpost in El Gouna, offers their quality blends in airy surroundings.
