Live the Legend at Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, a 5-star luxury hotel in a 19th-century Victorian palace on the banks of the river Nile.

​Rising grandly from a pink granite shelf at the edge of the Nubian Desert with views of Elephantine Island, this stylish property blends Pharaonic treasures with French art de recevoir. Discover sophisticated interiors by Sybille de Margerie in the historic Palace, a world of Moorish arches, ruby red chandeliers, plush Persian carpets, soft armchairs and hand-carved furnishings. Or step into the 21st-century Egypt with the Nile Wings contemporary reinterpretation of traditional codes.

​Sofitel Legend Old Cataract has reopened its doors, redesigned by French interior designer Sybille de Margerie to reveal its iconic heritage enriched with contemporary design.

Discover wonderful new features. Dive into the magnifique pool overlooking the Nile and linking the two hotel wings. Indulge at the luxurious spa with a wide range of rejuvenating treatments.

​Embark on a voyage back to another century at the 1902 restaurant and the terrace bars perched above the peaceful waters of the Nile.


​A legendary place

​The first hotel legend relates to its name, which refers to the ancient belief that the collision of the river Nile with the northernmost granite barrier of land is actually the point where the civilized world reaches its end. Further, the hotel overlooks Elephantine Island, witness to the once flourishing cult of Khnum, god of the cataract and inundation.

​Finally, the Old Cataract marks the end of the fertile Nile valley and the beginning of the vast Nubian Desert. A magnifique location, scene of legends.


A legendary story

​The second half of the 19th century is synonymous with prosperity and refinement. Steamships and railroads carried curious travelers deep into Egypt, and the most privileged among them were welcomed at the brand new Old Cataract, an elegant Victorian palace offering state-of-the art amenities and luxurious décor. A place to pause, contemplate, and immerse oneself in the magic of the Nile.

​After having hosted exclusive events for over eleven decades, the hotel underwent three years of renovation orchestrated by French designer Sybille de Margerie.

​The hotel's Victorian beauty and Egyptian atmosphere have been restored, and interior architecture has been eloquently enhanced with an inimitable French touch.

​Admire the mythical Palace wing. Discover the newly compelling Nile wing, rich with Oriental flavor and poetic echoes of motifs from the original building. The magnifique new pool naturally links the two wings and invites complete relaxation. Experience supreme comfort, outstanding cuisine, and utmost attention to your every need.


Legendary people

​Agha Khan, Tsar Nicholas of Russia, Winston Churchill, the Duke of Connaught, King Farouk.

For over a century, prominent figures from from all over the world have been drawn to the inherent graciousness and quiet energy of the Old Cataract. Its captivating atmosphere inspired Agatha Christies' famous work, Death on the Nile. And it is in this very place that Jean Claude Ellena, moved by the magnifique setting, created the very delicate fragrance Jardin sur le Nil just few years ago.