Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel

Walk into this legendary grand old dame and you can almost feel the history here.  Agatha Christie is said to have written some of her thrillers here and there is a suite named after her in honour of her stay.

It sits in a prime spot, on a rise above the Nile, overlooking Elephantine Island and the desert beyond. There’s a Nile-side pool, spa and destination restaurant, but the real highlight is the restaurant terraces, idyllic vantage points to watch the sun set over the Nile. Make your way there for afternoon tea or sundowners.

The hotel has its own boat landing, providing easy access to the river. For another real treat, hire a felucca (single-sail boat) and drift around the islands at sunset.

A stay here is the perfect way to end a tour in Egypt or a cruise on the Nile.