Movenpick Resort Aswan occupies a prime spot on Elephantine Island, in the middle of the Nile opposite the Corniche, and the setting is its greatest attraction. The hotel is surrounded by gardens and has sweeping views across the river to the west bank and the city, so a balcony or terrace at sunset is memorable. Rooms are comfortable and well kept, with a range of categories including river-view rooms and suites, and public areas include a lobby, restaurants, bars and a swimming pool set among palms. Dining typically includes a main buffet restaurant and a more relaxed option, along with a cafe or bar for drinks as the sun goes down. The island location gives a peaceful atmosphere that is hard to find in the middle of a city, and guests get a quick boat or shuttle to the Corniche when they want to explore. The hotel suits couples, families and travellers who want comfort and a sense of retreat, and it makes a fine base for Philae, the Nubian villages and Abu Simbel excursions.
Location and getting around
The island lies a short boat ride from the Aswan Corniche, so the souk, the restaurants and the felucca landings are easy to reach. Many hotel arrangements, such as tours and transfers, include the boat crossing. Elephantine Island itself has ruins and Nubian villages that you can explore on foot, and the Botanical Garden is a short sail away. The airport is a reasonable drive on the mainland.
Rooms and who it suits
Request a Nile-view room for the best sunsets and quiet mornings. The resort is a good fit for couples who want a romantic stay, families who like a pool and garden, and travellers who have early starts for Abu Simbel. It suits those who do not mind crossing the river for dinner in town, and it is less ideal for people who want to walk straight from the hotel to shops and cafes.
Good to know
The boat crossing runs on a schedule, so check late-evening times before you plan dinner in town. Abu Simbel convoys leave very early, so ask for an early breakfast box. Winter is the high season, so book ahead, and ask about the facilities open on your dates, including the pool and restaurants.
If you want to see the island properly, take a morning walk to the Nubian villages and the ruins on Elephantine, then return for a swim. Ask the front desk about a sunset felucca from the hotel dock, which saves a trip to the Corniche. Book a room well ahead for the Christmas and New Year period, when the island is full.
Why stay here
- ✓Island setting in the Nile
- ✓Garden and swimming pool
- ✓Nile-view rooms
- ✓Buffet restaurant
- ✓Bar and cafe
- ✓Boat to the Corniche
- ✓Tour and Abu Simbel arrangements
- ✓Airport transfers on request
Good questions
Is Movenpick Resort Aswan on an island?+
Yes, it is on Elephantine Island in the Nile, with a short boat or shuttle crossing to the Corniche.
Is it a good base for Abu Simbel?+
Yes. The hotel can arrange early transport and breakfast boxes for the convoy departure.
Does it have a pool?+
Yes, there is a swimming pool in the gardens. Check what is open for your dates.
