A Guided Tour of El Gouna: Egypt's Luxurious Red Sea Resort Town

El Gouna, often called the “Venice of the Red Sea,” is a picturesque resort town situated about 25 kilometers north of Hurghada along Egypt’s stunning Red Sea coast. Known for its canals, lagoons, and charming architecture, El Gouna offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and vibrant culture. This guided tour through El Gouna will highlight its scenic beaches, vibrant marina, activities, and iconic attractions.

1. Start at the Abu Tig Marina

The best way to begin your tour of El Gouna is with a leisurely walk through Abu Tig Marina. This vibrant marina is filled with luxury yachts, charming cafes, boutique shops, and restaurants that give the area a sophisticated Mediterranean feel.

Highlights of Abu Tig Marina

Yacht Watching: Take in the views of the luxurious yachts docked in the marina, a popular spot for photos and relaxation.
Shopping and Dining: The marina boasts a variety of shops, including high-end boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries. Enjoy breakfast or brunch at one of the waterfront cafes, which serve a range of international and local dishes.
Evening Atmosphere: Abu Tig Marina is especially magical at night when it’s lit up, with live music and a buzzing nightlife scene in select restaurants and bars.

2. Relax on El Gouna’s Beautiful Beaches

El Gouna is known for its pristine beaches with calm, turquoise waters and soft sands. With several private and public beach options, you can choose from quiet, family-friendly areas or lively beach clubs.

Popular Beaches in El Gouna

Mangroovy Beach: Ideal for kite surfing, this beach has favorable wind conditions and offers lessons and rental options for beginners and pros alike. Mangroovy Beach also has a laid-back vibe and offers food and drink options for a relaxed beach day.
Zeytouna Beach: Located on its own island, Zeytouna Beach features wooden boardwalks, snorkel-friendly waters, and stunning views of the Red Sea. You can take a short shuttle or boat ride to reach this beach from the town center.
Marina Beach Club: Situated by Abu Tig Marina, this beach club combines sun, sand, and luxury amenities, offering loungers, water sports, and a lively atmosphere.

3. Explore El Gouna’s Art and Culture Scene

El Gouna has an impressive collection of art galleries and cultural events that showcase both local and international talent.

Must-Visit Art and Cultural Spots

El Gouna Art Village: Located in Downtown El Gouna, this open-air art village features galleries with exhibits of local and international artwork, paintings, sculptures, and handmade crafts. The Art Village often hosts workshops and exhibitions, making it a cultural highlight of the town.
El Gouna Film Festival: If you’re visiting in October, you may catch the annual El Gouna Film Festival. This international event attracts filmmakers and celebrities from around the world, featuring screenings, panels, and glamorous red-carpet events.
Tawila Island: Known for its serene environment and crystal-clear lagoons, Tawila Island offers a unique setting for private events, photoshoots, and art-inspired excursions.

4. Dive into Water Activities and Excursions

El Gouna is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering some of the best snorkeling, diving, and kite surfing spots in the Red Sea.

Top Water Activities in El Gouna

Snorkeling and Diving: Join a diving excursion to explore vibrant coral reefs and underwater life just offshore. There are dive centers and snorkel tours suitable for beginners and experienced divers.
Kite Surfing: With calm lagoons and favorable winds, El Gouna is one of the best places for kite surfing on the Red Sea. Schools like Kite Power and Kiteboarding Club El Gouna offer lessons and rentals.
Boat Trips and Island Tours: Take a boat trip to explore the islands and reefs around El Gouna, including Dolphin House, where you can spot dolphins in their natural habitat.

5. Experience Downtown El Gouna’s Charm

Downtown El Gouna is filled with unique shops, restaurants, and markets, giving you a chance to experience the town’s lively atmosphere. With its vibrant architecture and canal-side settings, Downtown is a great spot for a leisurely walk.

Highlights of Downtown El Gouna

Shopping: Find boutiques selling handmade jewelry, clothing, souvenirs, and local crafts. El Gouna Souk is a popular market that sells spices, handicrafts, and traditional Egyptian goods.
Dining: Sample a range of cuisines at Downtown restaurants, from Mediterranean and Italian to Egyptian street food. Local favorites like Zomba serve up authentic Egyptian dishes, while Puddleduck Bar & Restaurant offers fusion dishes in a cozy setting.
Entertainment: Downtown hosts regular events, including live music performances, art shows, and festivals. Check the local calendar for events happening during your stay.

6. Golfing at the El Gouna Golf Club

For those who enjoy golf, the El Gouna Golf Club offers a beautiful 18-hole course designed by the renowned Gene Bates and Fred Couples. The course’s design incorporates lagoons and lush greenery, providing scenic views of the Red Sea.

What to Expect at El Gouna Golf Club

Golf Lessons and Rentals: The club offers lessons for beginners and rental equipment, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a round, even if they didn’t bring their own gear.
Spectacular Views: The course’s location near the coast provides golfers with breathtaking views and a peaceful environment.

7. Relax and Unwind at El Gouna’s Spas

El Gouna is known for its luxury wellness offerings, with many spas providing relaxing treatments inspired by Egyptian and international techniques. After a day of exploring, unwind with a massage or pampering session.

Popular Spa Options

Angsana Spa at the Mövenpick Resort: Known for its holistic approach to wellness, Angsana Spa offers a range of services, from traditional Thai massages to facial treatments and aromatherapy.
Thalasso Spa at La Maison Bleue: This spa provides thalassotherapy treatments, which use sea water and marine products to rejuvenate and relax. The spa’s beautiful decor and tranquil setting make it a haven for relaxation.

8. Sunset Views and Dinner at a Lagoon Restaurant

End your day in El Gouna with a stunning view of the sunset at one of the lagoon-side restaurants. Many eateries in El Gouna offer al fresco dining with views of the water, creating a perfect ambiance for a relaxing evening meal.

Top Sunset Dining Spots

The Smokery: Located at Abu Tig Marina, The Smokery is famous for its fresh seafood, sushi, and elegant ambiance with a view of the marina’s sparkling lights.
Chez Chantal: Known for its delicious French cuisine, Chez Chantal is located on a rooftop and offers panoramic views of El Gouna, making it a favorite spot for sunset dining.
Club House: This laid-back spot offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes and drinks with a relaxed beach club vibe, making it a great choice for an evening meal by the water.

Conclusion

El Gouna offers an immersive experience that combines luxury, relaxation, and adventure, making it a captivating destination on Egypt’s Red Sea coast. Whether you’re drawn to the pristine beaches, the vibrant cultural scene, or the outdoor activities, a guided tour through El Gouna is an invitation to unwind, explore, and discover. With its unique charm and diverse attractions, El Gouna promises an unforgettable experience for travelers looking to enjoy the best of the Red Sea