The Old Cataract Hotel is majestically perched on a hill overlooking the Nile. Built in 1902, this luxurious hotel has been beautifully restored down to its glass etched working elevator. The unique decor is Moorish with tall ceilings, long halls, and colorful furnishings. There is an attractive, large swimming pool set in the middle of lush grounds, with many walkways and terraces for relaxing. Other amenities include tennis and volleyball courts, a health club, restaurants and bars. There are 128 standard rooms, each decorated elegantly and differently, and 8 suites which are named after famous people who have stayed there, including Howard Carter, Agatha Christie, Winston Churchill, Princess Di, and the Shah of Iran. We took a peek into Agatha Christie's suite which was gorgeous. She spent some time here, writing the movie "Death on the Nile" which was partially filmed at the hotel.
As we entered the hotel, colorfully dressed attendants greeted us in the grand lobby, and took us up the glass elevator to our room. The staff was friendly and very attentive. Almost too attentive! We had just gotten off the night train, still sick with Pharaoh's Revenge and wanted a little privacy to crash. But every few minutes someone else would be at the door to graciously deliver complimentary fruit, cheese, tarts, soda, water, juice, towels, bathrobes, or newspapers. It became kind of funny as you can imagine, trying to jump into the shower just as another knock sounded at the door. We finally had to put the "Do not disturb" sign out, although I can't imagine what else they could've thought to bring us! Is that service, or what?
Over the next couple of days, after sightseeing in the mornings, we hung out at the pool. It was a great place to read, write, share a sensual swim, or relax in the shade while stretching out on a comfortable padded chaise lounge. I was finally beginning to feel like I was on my honeymoon! Evenings we hung out on the terrace, watching feluccas sail by while the sun set over the Nile.
Staying here was a treat, and worth the splurge! It was our favorite place to stay in all of Egypt. Rates vary depending on the type of room (standard or suite), the view (facing the garden or the Nile), and the season. Current 2002 low season rates for the standard garden view room begin at $106 US and climb to $240 US in the high season. A suite overlooking the Nile ranges from $214 to $374 US. New Year's Eve prices are substantially more for all rooms. Rates do include a breakfast buffet (wonderful food), service charges and taxes.