Sun International opens Red Sea resort

South Africa’s leading hotel group Sun International has opened its first resort in Egypt, with conference facilities for up to 1,500 delegates.

The resort is based in Port Ghalib, around 175 miles south-east of Luxor. Developed along 11 miles of Red Sea coastline, the complex consists of three five-star hotels, a 1,000-berth international marina, and the second-biggest man-made saltwater swimming lagoon in the world.

Also set to open this month are 110 retail outlets, restaurants and bars, which will create a lively corniche and Khan (traditional Egyptian bazaar) close to one mile long in the centre of Port Ghalib.

Of the three hotels, the Palace at Port Ghalib has the most extensive facilities, with 296 rooms and 13 Royal suites, as well as a spa and traditional hammam, travel centre and the Olive restaurant with Michelin-starred chef Conrad Gallagher. The largest property, the Sahara Sun Sands, has 347 rooms including six Sea View Suites, while twin property the Sahara Sun Oasis, has 292 rooms including six Lagoon View Suites.

Located between the three hotels is an international convention centre, which can accommodate up to 1,500 people and is the only multi-purpose, state-of-the-art facility of its size in the region. There are also 18 meeting rooms and a ballroom with capacity for up 150 people.

Activities available at Port Ghalib include kayaking, windsurfing, parasailing, snorkelling, dolphin safaris, 4X4 desert safaris, deep-sea fishing, glass-bottom boat rides, mountain-biking and clay-pigeon shooting.

Port Ghalib is located close to Marsa Alam international airport (RMF) and is currently served by charter flights with flythomascook or thomsonfly, from Gatwick and Manchester once a week (during the winter season). Alternatively, Egypt Air has domestic connections to Marsa Alam from Cairo.

For more information visit discoverportghalib.com.

Report by Jenny Southan