SOMA BAY, SAFAGA 84711 | EGYPT
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When one thinks of Egypt, the first images that often come to mind are its renowned cultural monuments, shaped by thousands of years of history. The Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, the Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings near Luxor are all monumental sites that tell a remarkable story.
Yet Egypt is far more than its ancient heritage. It is a diverse country of striking landscapes, vibrant cities and beautiful coastlines. The stark barrenness of the desert gives way, in the regions surrounding the world-famous lifeline of the Nile, to lush green scenery. This dramatic contrast can be observed particularly well from above, even upon arrival by aeroplane. Here, nature reveals its immense power, leaving those who witness it in awe.
The same sense of wonder can be found along the shores of the Red Sea. Crystal-clear waters and brilliantly colourful coral reefs, which delight snorkellers and divers alike, have helped make Egypt one of the most beautiful destinations for holidaymakers since the dawn of tourism — especially for those who love fine sandy beaches and water sports.

For this reason, we have taken a closer look at one of the most beautiful regions on the Red Sea for you. Soma Bay, a peninsula south of the destination airport, is only a 45-minute drive from the lively holiday hub of Hurghada. The closer the car draws to the port city of Safaga, the more unspoilt the surroundings become. The sandy and rocky landscape between the tourist resorts and the Nile forms part of the Arabian Desert and thus the easternmost reaches of the Sahara. The imposing foothills of the mountain range that cuts through the region accompany travellers on their journey south on the right, while to the left the vivid turquoise of the sun-dappled sea appears again and again.
Upon entering the Soma Bay development, guests arrive at a place that stands in striking contrast to the raw natural character of the surrounding landscape. Here, the sun seems to be at home in all its many shades. Stretches of desert meet lush greenery, and golfers, too, are exceptionally well catered for on the two Gary Player golf courses, with nine and 18 holes respectively.
Past the clubhouse, the road winds its way towards the sea, where our temporary home awaits: the elegant Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay.
Allow yourself to be inspired by our impressions and experience this pearl of the Red Sea on your next journey. You will discover that a holiday on Egypt’s sun-kissed coast can be a highly appealing alternative to the popular hotspots of the Mediterranean. Diverse and varied, with a high standard of quality and comfort, it offers — without exaggeration — remarkable value for money, and more than lives up to that promise.

We wish you a pleasant stay.

Warm wishes, Yours

Martin V. Sampedrano Gonzalez
Editor

THE PALACE ON THE RED SEA

The architecture of the sandstone-coloured Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay, built in Moorish style, is reminiscent of an Arabian palace. The main building, with its elegant reception hall, welcomes arriving guests with an impressive view of the Red Sea. Set above the expansive resort, it seems to throne over the sun-dappled bay below.
The atmosphere of the elegant lobby is shaped by oriental influences. Stylish dark wood detailing on the ceilings and walls lines the way to the reception area and lobby. Large-scale oil paintings depicting scenes from Egyptian history adorn the walls — refreshingly free from the familiar clichés of hieroglyphs, Cleopatra and Ramses.
Indeed, there is no sense of kitsch or excess here. Every decorative element and every piece of furniture blends harmoniously into the reception area. Cast-iron chandeliers and classic oriental lanterns set against the solid columns create an atmospheric glow, which comes into its own particularly in the evening hours.
In front of the reception area and throughout the lobby, comfortable seating arrangements invite guests to pause and linger. A refreshing welcome tea and cooling towels are offered by the hotel’s hostesses — the Ladies in Red. Dressed in elegant red attire, these ladies are part of the Guest Relations Department and look after the wellbeing of guests at every Kempinski hotel and resort around the world.

With views across the magnificent hotel grounds and the beach just a few metres away, arrival itself becomes a stylish experience, enjoyed through the lobby’s expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.


Rooms

The hotel’s 325 luxurious rooms, including 22 Junior Suites, 10 Deluxe Suites and two Presidential Suites, are spread across several buildings of no more than two storeys, arranged around the hotel’s impressive pool landscape.
The route from the main building leads past the Lazy River, a canal-like water feature kept gently in motion by integrated whirlpools, where guests can swim or simply drift along at leisure.
Palm-lined pathways and elegant colonnades connect the individual building complexes, all of which are surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens.

The generously proportioned rooms, offering around 40 square metres of living space and views of the lagoon, are presented in a classic and elegant style. Terracotta-coloured tiled floors, light wooden furniture and cream-coloured curtains define the atmosphere.
The combined living and sleeping area is furnished with a very comfortable king-size bed, an armchair or sofa seating area, and a small desk. Standard amenities also include a flat-screen television, complimentary Wi-Fi and an in-room safe.
The adjoining bathrooms are exceptionally spacious and feature a bathtub, shower and a separate WC area with bidet. Built-in wardrobes or walk-in wardrobes provide ample storage space in both the living and bathroom areas.
All rooms also feature generous balconies, where outdoor seating or integrated benches with comfortable cushions invite guests to relax and linger.
Rooms with partial or direct sea views offer the same amenities, but are located, according to their category, in sections of the hotel facing the beach. In addition, the Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay offers rooms in the Laguna Club category. Alongside a preferred location within the hotel, these rooms also include complimentary access to the Laguna Club Lounge.

Junior Suites

Guests with a taste for something truly special will feel particularly at home in the luxurious Junior Suites. Elegant carved wood panelling and warm shades of red define the décor of these suites, which range from 45 to 75 square metres in size.
In addition to the inviting sleeping area, featuring a king-size bed and Arabian decorative lamps, an adjoining small salon in the style of an Arabian majlis — traditionally a living room or sitting area — provides a charming space in which to relax. Comfortable upholstered seating along the window fronts, adorned with soft cushions, is crowned by a golden domed ceiling and an oriental ceiling lamp with delicate ornamentation.
In the evening in particular, this salon develops a very special atmosphere. From the balconies, guests can enjoy the sunset with views of the sea. Guests staying in the Junior Suites also benefit from complimentary access to the Laguna Club Lounge.

Presidential Suites

For those who do not wish to forgo the comfort of two separate rooms while on holiday by the Red Sea, the stylish Deluxe Suites offer a generous living space of approximately 75 to 120 square metres.
As in the Junior Suites, the living and sleeping areas are separate; here, however, they are fully divided by a door. The living area is furnished in a classic, elegant style and features both a comfortable seating area and a desk.
The colour concept of these suites is dedicated to the blue of the sea.

Whether travelling alone, as a couple or with family, the Presidential Suites at Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay offer the perfect living space for discerning guests who do not wish to forgo the comfort of separate living areas and a private kitchen while on holiday.
In addition to an opulent living and dining area with an adjoining kitchen and small library, the suites feature an elegant bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, as well as a guest WC. These suites can also be extended with an additional double room.
A particular highlight is the spacious sun terrace, furnished with comfortable loungers and offering magnificent views across the entire hotel resort and the Red Sea beyond.

Laguna Club Lounge

Exclusive and particularly personalised service is offered in the Laguna Club Lounge. Guests staying in the room category of the same name, as well as all suite guests, enjoy a range of exclusive benefits here.
The stately, classically styled lounge is located on the ground floor of building complex number three. Here, culinary indulgence is given pride of place and celebrated throughout the day. The day begins with a refined breakfast buffet, which may be enjoyed, for example, on the terrace reserved exclusively for Laguna Club guests, with views of the marina. A lunch buffet is followed by afternoon tea, while after dinner, exquisite pralines and liqueurs are served.
The lounge is open throughout the day. Complimentary soft drinks and local alcoholic beverages may be ordered from the attentive lounge staff between 7.00 a.m. and 10.00 p.m.
The Laguna Club is a small oasis of tranquillity. The buffet selection is exquisite, and dishes are prepared at an open cooking station according to guests’ individual preferences. Naturally, guests of the Laguna Club are also free at any time to enjoy breakfast or dinner in the main restaurant, The View, or to visit one of the hotel’s other restaurants. Complimentary beverages, however, are served only in the lounge and on the adjoining outdoor terrace.

Gourmet Cuisine

In culinary terms, Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay has much to offer. The main restaurant,  The View, is located in the hotel’s main building and, as its name suggests, offers a magnificent view across the entire resort and the Red Sea.
Those who enjoy breakfast or dinner in the open air will appreciate the outdoor terrace, with its comfortable seating and white tablecloths. While the gentle coastal breeze provides a pleasant freshness outside, things heat up indoors at a total of five live cooking stations.
The selection at the breakfast and dinner buffets varies from day to day, ensuring that even long-stay guests continue to discover something new. Mediterranean cuisine meets Arabian highlights, with a wide choice of both hot and cold dishes offered at breakfast and dinner alike.
Particularly popular and highly recommended is the freshly caught fish, prepared at a dedicated station according to guests’ individual preferences. The selection changes almost daily, and the fish can be prepared with a variety of herbs, oils and marinades to suit each guest’s taste.

In addition to its wonderful outdoor terrace with sun protection, The View also offers a welcoming indoor dining area. Here, every guest is personally greeted and shown to their table.
The predominantly Egyptian staff embody the role of perfect hosts. Always attentive, courteous and genuinely warm, they enrich every visit to the restaurant far beyond the culinary experience itself.

Although Al Mar Restaurant is not located directly on the seafront, it offers a wonderful view of the main pool area and the beach beyond, making it the perfect spot for a light lunch. The menu features refined grilled dishes as well as holiday favourites such as burgers and pizza, accompanied by fresh salads and delicious desserts. 
It is also an ideal place for a refreshing break in the shade, whether over a fruity cocktail, a cup of coffee or tea. Al Mar Restaurant is open from 12.00 noon to 4.00 p.m.

The Orient meets Asia at Bamboo Shoot, one of the two à la carte restaurants at Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay. Here, guests leave North Africa behind — at least for one evening — and immerse themselves in the culinary diversity of the Asian continent.
The restaurant is located in the hotel’s beautifully designed marina. While the interior lives up to its name with bamboo decorations, the peaceful outdoor terrace is adorned more subtly with small bamboo accents. A glance at the “illuminated” menu turns the culinary variety into an enticing journey.
The freshly prepared sushi is particularly recommended, whether maki, nigiri or sashimi. The ramen is equally delicious, as are the aromatic salads. The selection is convincing throughout and is presented with style and visual appeal.
A reservation at Bamboo Shoot is strongly recommended and is possible from Monday to Tuesday, as well as on Saturday and Sunday. Guests staying at the hotel for at least seven nights receive one complimentary visit to Bamboo Shoot, including up to three courses. A small supplement applies to selected dishes — but it is well worth it.

At La Pergola, Mediterranean culinary delights come together in elegant style. Located in the hotel’s beautiful marina, the restaurant offers a creative menu featuring bouillabaisse from France, fresh pasta from Italy and rice dishes inspired by Spain, alongside grilled meat and fish dishes with a distinctive Mediterranean touch.
Overlooking the yachts and excursion boats moored in the harbour, an evening at La Pergola is particularly enjoyable when accompanied by a selection of fine wines.
Here, too, guests staying at the hotel for at least seven nights may enjoy one complimentary visit to La Pergola, including up to three courses. A small supplement applies to certain dishes.

Located directly on the hotel’s beautiful sandy beach, Beachcomber Bar is the perfect place to unwind. Whether seated at the bar or relaxing on one of the comfortable sun loungers, guests can enjoy freshly pressed juices, sparkling cocktails and a variety of other drinks, as well as creative snacks. Recently, light sandwiches and fresh seafood have also been added to the menu.
Beachcomber Bar is a popular meeting point for guests looking to refresh themselves before, during or after sunbathing.
Oriental accents define the Sultan Lounge, which adjoins the lobby. Dark, heavy wood panelling lends character to the interior, with its bar counter and various secluded seating areas. Outside, the spirit of Arabian nights comes alive in an oriental Bedouin tent. Decorated with colourful, soft fabrics, comfortable cushions and upholstered seating invite guests to linger. Shishas are served on request, perfectly complementing the setting.
The atmosphere becomes particularly enchanting on selected evenings, when belly dancers in authentic costumes bring the dream of One Thousand and One Nights to life to the sound of Arabic rhythms. Yet even without dance and music, the day in Soma Bay can be brought to a wonderfully relaxed close with a cool drink from the varied bar menu and views of the sea.

Relaxation on the Fine Sandy Beach

At the heart of every seaside holiday is the beach. Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in Egypt — fine and sandy, gently shelving into crystal-clear waters, and suitable for swimming, snorkelling and other water sports at any time of year.
On comfortable sun loungers, guests will find exactly what they are looking for in two separate beach areas. Families with young children can perfect their sandcastle-building skills, while those seeking peace and quiet can enjoy uninterrupted views of the water in the adults’ area.
Both sections of the beach are dotted with numerous fixed, straw-thatched parasols. To provide protection against the occasional sea breeze, movable wicker screens are also available and can be adjusted individually according to the position of the sun.
Large beach towels are provided for use on the beach and handed out by the beach staff at the beginning of each visit. For spontaneous requests, control units known as beach buzzers are attached to the parasol stands. At the touch of a button, the friendly staff from Beachcomber Bar are called directly to the respective sun lounger and will serve drinks and food on request.
As a refreshing gesture, small fruit bowls are offered to guests during the day.
At sunset, the hotel invites guests to enjoy a sundowner. Colourful sand-filled beanbags are then arranged in the centre of the beach, facing the setting sun. A small mobile bar offers a carefully selected choice of drinks, as well as a cocktail of the day.
Accompanied by relaxed music — sometimes performed by a band, a DJ or live musicians — the end of a sun-filled beach day is celebrated in style. The atmosphere is cheerful, lively and wonderfully relaxed.

Wellness & Fitness

In addition to its 400-metre private beach, Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay offers an impressive pool landscape for guests of all ages. This 7,000-square-metre oasis at the heart of the resort comprises a large main pool, a family pool and, as its highlight, the so-called Lazy River.
With its gentle currents, the canal winds its way past various sunbathing plateaus with loungers and riverbed-style access points. Thanks to the integrated current systems, guests can simply drift through the resort at a leisurely pace.
Several bridges and walkways connect the different levels, where guests can relax on comfortable loungers in the shade of numerous parasols. Large beach towels are arranged here, just as they are on the beach, by the attentive hotel staff. Requests for drinks and food are also gladly taken care of.

Just a few metres from the pool landscape is the spa building, which also features a swimming pool and a whirlpool. Owing to the pool’s more classic design, it is also suitable for swimming lengths. Loungers and parasols are arranged around the pool.
Wellness enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in the adjoining, separate spa area. In addition to a sauna, steam bath and plunge pool, there is also a whirlpool and a variety of outdoor relaxation loungers. In general, the spa area is intended as a quiet zone. Its atmosphere is reminiscent of a Moorish courtyard. With views of terracotta-coloured walls and domed roofs, it is a particularly pleasant place to unwind.
A small fitness area is also located within the spa building. Two treadmills, a cross trainer, as well as further strength-training equipment and dumbbells are available for daily workouts.

An absolute highlight of any stay in Soma Bay is a visit to The Cascades Spa & Thalasso. A shuttle bus takes hotel guests to this 7,500-square-metre wellness oasis in the heart of the peninsula. Known as one of the largest spa centres in the world and awarded the title of Egypt’s best spa, it offers discerning wellness guests the opportunity to indulge in complete relaxation and care.
A total of 65 treatment rooms provide ample scope for massages, facials and body treatments, while the 750-square-metre Thalasso Tonic Hydrotherapy Pool forms the centrepiece of the experience.
With 830 cubic metres of seawater, it offers a truly unique bathing ritual. Various underwater jets, waterfalls and whirlpools gently pamper the body. Hotel guests can enjoy this soothing saltwater experience for a modest daily fee. Individual treatments, day rituals and multi-day programmes are available at an additional charge and can be booked directly through the hotel.

Soma Bay is not only the perfect holiday destination for sunseekers and water sports enthusiasts; golfers — and those aspiring to become one — will also find it more than rewarding in every sense. 
On this sun-drenched peninsula in the Red Sea lies an 18-hole, par-72 course designed by the world-renowned golf legend Gary Player. The course offers unforgettable views across lush, meticulously maintained fairways. The Cascades Golf & Country Club was the first championship golf course in the Middle East. With its unique location, it forms a striking green contrast between the fascinating starkness of the desert and the clear blue of the sea. This spectacular setting is well known and highly appreciated by players from all over the world.
In addition to the championship course, there is also a 9-hole, par-3 short course, likewise designed by Gary Player, which forms part of the affiliated golf academy at the Cascades Golf & Country Club. The academy provides the ideal environment in which to discover this traditional sport or to refine existing skills on the green.
Qualified PGA professionals teach guests using the latest coaching methods. An open, double-sided driving range, as well as dedicated areas for short-game practice, are also available. From chipping and bunker play to putting, every aspect can be learned or improved under professional guidance.
The academy is open daily from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. and offers interested beginners a complimentary introduction on Mondays and Fridays at 10.00 a.m.
Those opting for a golf course in Soma Bay can choose between individual and group lessons.
Further information about Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay, as well as the option to reserve a room, is available on the hotel’s website.

All photographs: Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay