Built in the Nubian Desert on the banks of the Nile River opposite Elephantine Island, the hotel is majestically positioned on an outcrop of pink granite overlooking the Nile.

Salama Ahmed Salama from Al-Ahram Weekly describes “….that the hotel offers a unique view of the sun setting behind the distant hills. You are spellbound by the magic, overwhelmed by sorrow, and profoundly aware of the greatness of the Creator. In a few seconds, the universe seems to settle, its relentless movement, colourful detail and boisterous creatures transformed into dark, undefined shadows. All features and characteristics seem to fade away, barriers fall and contours are blurred. A deep sense of oneness with the universe, with its planets and stars and spirits from time immemorial, seems to dominate.”

The Hotel Old Cataract opened its doors in 1889 and has become a legendary name in hospitality. With its Victorian architecture and old-world interior, the Old Cataract still graces Aswan. Its long, dimly lit red-carpeted corridors lead to suites where famous men and women, including Winston Churchill, Agatha Christie and the Agha Khan (who would book a suite for the whole winter season), stayed.

The Agha Khan came to Aswan every year, seeking relief from his arthritis. He chose Aswan for his honeymoon when he married in 1957, and also as his burial place. His mausoleum, overlooking the city, is reminiscent of Pharaonic tombs built on the western bank of the Nile.

Staying at the Cataract has been described as walking into a painting, or a period post card. This hotel is a living history that one not only senses with the eyes, but feels in the bones. With its high ceilings, long halls and Moorish decor, one is transported back through time to Egypt’s Victorian past, of empire builders locked in monumental discussions on the famous Terrace, of Howard Carter reveling in his recent discovery of Tut’s Tomb and of Europe’s royalty relaxing and gaining their health in isolated gardens.

Since the glamour has a bit faded, the Hotel Old Cataract is actually closed for refurbishment until the 1 May 2010 – so enjoy this nice view to the Nile from the terrace of the Old Cataract. An article from 1999 about the history of this famous hotel can be found in the archives of the egypt newspaper Al-Ahram Weekly, “Splendor on the Nile” from Inji El-Kashef.