Visit Sharm El Sheikh

Set on the idyllic Sinai peninsula, Sharm el Sheikh comprises various resorts dotted along the sun-soaked coastline. It is the perfect base from which to explore the many wonders of the Red Sea and its world famous coral reefs.

Image Gallery Sharm El Sheikh © Chicurel. Arnaud/hemis.fr Offering world-class diving with spectacular reefs, magnificent drop-offs and shipwrecks waiting to be explored, you can dive among the sharks, barracudas and turtles off Shark's Bay or earn diving certification in the gentler waters of Na'ama Bay.

With a mountainous backdrop reflected on an inky-blue sea, the alluring destination is today attracting some of the world's leading hotel chains, as well as intimate, boutique places to stay for those seeking an individual holiday experience.

As well as superb diving, visitors can also experience the local culture of Egypt. Embark on a desert safari on camel or horse-back, or capture on film the deep, rich colours of Bedouin tents by sunset.

Eating Out

Sharm el Sheikh's restaurants are varied, with European and Asian dining options, as well as the opportunity to sample traditional Egyptian dishes such as hummus, babaganoush, kebabs, and falafel. The resort's seafood - which arrives at the table fresh and usually grilled - is a must.

Entertainment

Whether you have already been smitten by the diving and snorkelling bug, or long to experience the treasures of the deep for the first time, this is one of the most inspiring places on earth in which to take the plunge. It is also an ideal location and climate in which to try your hand at windsurfing and other water sports.

For visitors who wish to experience traditional Egyptian life, visit one of Sharm El Sheikh's spice shops. Inhale what's on offer and enjoy an ever-lasting taste of your holiday - but always be prepared to haggle over prices.

Indulge your senses at the atmospheric souk outside the Hyatt. The market consists of assorted shops selling local arts and crafts, clothes and jewellery. It's a wonderful way to spend the evening, topped off with an al fresco night bite at one of the local food stalls.

The surrounding area

Located just north of Sharm, Na'am Bay is a popular tourist resort offering a host of modern amenities, bars, restaurants and shops. Most hotels at Na'ama Bay have their own private beaches with stretches of golden, desert sand. Water sports centres are located at Na'ama Bay's delightful marina, with jetties stretching along the coastline to protect the coral reefs and provide a safe and enticing area for swimming.

Diving centres are also springing up in Shark's Bay, which lies on the Al Pasha coast, a short taxi journey from Na'ama Bay and consists of a rugged shoreline that drops below the surface to a sandy canyon. Because many of the hotels are built into the jagged cliffs in Shark's Bay, guests can enjoy the captivating views to Tiran Island and magnificent sunsets.

Nabq Bay is set on the edge of the Nabq National Park, an area of breathtaking mountainous beauty. While this area is not as developed as Na'ama Bay, its gently shelved shallow lagoon makes it popular with families with young children.