Sofitel Winter Palace

The Winter Palace Hotel opened its doors in 1907, marking the occasion with a lunch in the Valley of the Kings. This grand Edwardian property overlooks the River Nile within walking distance of the Thebes Temple. It is our preferred choice in Luxor if you want a hotel with character and heritage. On entering this yellow-pastel-hued landmark, you will arrive in another era: antique furnishings, old engravings, high ceilings, the smell of polish, and exotic gardens give the property the feel of an imposing residence in an exotic outpost of the empire.

The property has 92 air-conditioned rooms and suites facing the garden or the River Nile. Once the winter guesthouse of the Egyptian royal family, the Winter Palace has long been the preferred choice of many heads of state and celebrities. In 1922 Lord Carnarvon, a patron of the archaeologist Howard Carter and a regular guest at the hotel, announced the discovery of Tutankhamun’s Tomb to the world from the hotel’s steps. Dining facilities include the sophisticated 1886 á la carte restaurant, where formal attire is required, and the Nile Terrace, which overlooks the River Nile and the West Bank and is the perfect place to relax at the end of the day and watch the sunset while enjoying High Tea.

Leisure facilities include a beautiful outdoor (heated) swimming pool, extensive gardens, and a billiards room. Guests should know that while the Winter Palace is full of character from the Belle Epoque, it does not fulfil all of the expectations of a 5-star property.