Exploring Egypt: From magnificent Cairo to the Mediterranean coast

Words by Janet McMeekin

Few destinations offer such a striking contrast within a single day. At lunchtime, I was dining in style, captivated by one of the world’s most iconic landscapes as the extraordinary panorama of the Pyramids of Giza rose from the desert, shimmering mirage-like across the horizon. Just hours later, I’d swapped the mystical grandeur of Ancient Egypt and the bustle of Cairo for the refined tranquillity of Egypt’s North Coast.

A pitstop in Cairo

Whether you’re a history buff, or have only fleeting knowledge of the ancient Egyptians, I defy anyone to stand metres away from the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx and not feel simultaneously mystified and humbled by these magnificent, world-famous treasures.

The nearby Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) recently opened to huge acclaim. Spanning more than 500,000 square metres, it showcases around 100,000 artefacts of the ancient Egyptian civilisation, covering seven millennia of the country’s history from pre-dynastic times to the Greek and Roman eras.

An awe-inspiring collection of King Tutankhamun, comprising more than 5,000 pieces including the solid gold mask of Tutankhamun’s head and shoulders, is also displayed together for the first time since its discovery – and it’s not to be missed.

Marassi: A Mediterranean gem

Arriving in Marassi – one of the country’s most exclusive beachfront resorts – I sat sipping a cocktail as the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean lapped the shore.

During the three-hour private transfer from the capital, desert landscapes gradually gave way to tantalising glimpses of the azure sea, framed by palms swaying gently in the breeze. The transition felt symbolic: from the intensity of the city to a resort dedicated entirely to leisure, luxury and relaxation.

Strolling into the stylish, contemporary Palace Beach Resort hotel, the staff’s warm greeting and thoughtful, attentive approach made me feel instantly welcome in my home from home for the next three nights.

Stretching along six-and-a-half kilometres of pristine white sand in North Egypt’s El Alamein area, Marassi is a unique destination. Home to 11 individual hotels, six beaches, an impressive collection of restaurants, an 18-hole championship golf course, an international marina and yacht club, vibrant water park and more, the resort offers a captivating coastal escape. A world away from Cairo and complete change of pace, it’s the ideal location to unwind and experience Egypt at its most sophisticated.

And unwind I did, from the very moment I walked into the lofty reception of the Palace Beach Resort with its eye-catching statement chandelier, gleaming marble floor and elegant glazed staircase. From there, I headed through Nooraï restaurant to dine al fresco on the beautiful terrace, mesmerised by the spectacular views across the Mediterranean.

I was delighted when the same coastal scene greeted me as I pulled back the curtains in my ground-floor premier room; a sumptuous space featuring contemporary Egyptian design, and, it transpired, an extremely comfortable king size bed.

Keen to take a refreshing dip in one of the hotel’s two large swimming pools, I meandered through the neatly manicured paths towards the tranquil lagoon.

Later, I headed to the Vida Marina Resort Marassi; a fabulous hotel situated within the heart of Marassi’s chic marina promenade – just a short golf buggy ride away.

As dusk fell at Vida Marina and the solar lights on the tables twinkled, a guitarist entertained us with easy-listening background music. Soaking up the laid-back waterfront ambience, I tucked in heartily to the flavoursome sushi and Asian-inspired cuisine.

The following morning, our group was whisked off to the renowned Al Alamein Hotel which, since the 1960s, has been luring discerning guests seeking a secluded, upmarket retreat.

Blending Art Deco influences with contemporary design, this property exudes a timeless sophistication – and the beach is stunning. Feeling the warm sand between my toes, while gazing out at the crystal-clear waters, I could totally understand why this charming hotel continues to hold such enduring appeal.

Al Alamein boasts five eateries, including the delightful beachfront B’Haar, with its billowing, coastal-inspired navy and white striped fabric ceiling and soft furnishings in nautical colours. It’s a wonderful spot to enjoy mouth-watering dishes from the comprehensive menu, such as chargrilled lobster served with a zesty sauce or perfectly seared salmon in lemon butter, while drinking in the sea view.

One of Marassi’s nifty offerings is a fleet of 30 open-top Mini Coopers, complementing the golf buggies that transport guests around the resort.

Following an informative, magical mystery tour of Marassi in a trio of the duck-egg blue convertible vehicles, our group returned to Al Alamein for dinner at Origins; another of the resort’s much-loved dining venues, where the succulent mixed grill was proving particularly popular with guests.

Having recently developed an interest in golf, I relished the opportunity of a one-to-one lesson from a professional at the Address Marassi Golf Resort; a fabulous Tuscan-style hotel centred around a beautifully maintained 18-hole course that attracts golfers of all abilities from across the world.

My 60-minute beginner’s lesson exceeded expectations and I left on a high, genuinely encouraged by my progress. A refreshing swim in one of the hotel’s pools, followed by a leisurely poolside lunch felt like the perfect reward.

That afternoon, a final treat awaited back at The Palace Beach Resort’s serene spa, in the form of an hour-long Balinese Harmony Massage – a deeply relaxing treatment I would highly recommend. It was a blissful way to round off my Egyptian escape at Marassi where nothing is ever too much trouble, customer service is key and guests’ sheer enjoyment is paramount.

In a nutshell

Cairo and Marassi form an intoxicating pairing. From the history, fast pace and cultural treasures of the capital to the polished coastal hotels embodying modern Egyptian luxury, the contrast is as compelling as it is memorable.

Whether drawn by ancient wonders, world-class hospitality, exceptional dining or relaxation in an upmarket resort by the sea, a two-centre trip offers a remarkable blend of experiences for travellers of every generation and an unforgettable escape.

Factbox

Elevate your Egyptian itinerary and discover Egypt with Emeco (+20 2 25749360). Blending the country’s most prestigious accommodations, including Marassi and Four Seasons First Residence Cairo, with seamless, expert-led tours of the pyramids of Giza, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and more.

Nightly rates at the Palace Beach Resort start from £876 for a double premier sea view room. For more information on Marassi and to book, visit marassi.eg.