The Al Tarfa Desert Sanctuary is a jewel in the Sahara, nestling amidst lush palm trees at the Dakhla Oasis in Egypt. This eco luxury retreat has only 20 rooms and its sand coloured buildings rise naturally from the desert landscape. The decor of the hotel is bohemian and luxurious, mixing traditional and chic modern styles in an original way. Rough mud walls and stone fireplaces are combined well with traditional woven rugs, wrought iron beds and elegant furniture. Some rooms have private plunge pools too.

Employing local people and using only local, traditional materials in its construction, Al Tarfa does not intrude upon its environment. Each room is a self contained villa, surrounded by date palms, with amazing views and pink glowing sunsets. The hotel is dedicated to nurturing and preserving local communities and industries, as well as the environment.

The small, attractive spa has a pool, a sauna and a steam room as well as a small gym. Massage is available inside or on an outdoor platform with views over the sand dunes. Energetic guests have plenty of opportunities to explore the local environment. You can go out on guided walks or horse rides to see nearby ancient ruins, hot springs and Egyptian villages. There are also 4x4 excursions available, as well as traditional camel rides through the Saharan dunes. The food is highly rated and served in various locations in the gardens, beside the pool and on the terrace, as well as in the restaurant.

Egypt is a land of ancient civilisations and scorching Saharan sands carved by the majestic, meandering Nile. For anyone wishing to escape the beaten tourist trails, the Al Tarfa Desert Sanctuary Lodge and Spa offers a unique and very romantic experience. This peaceful and luxurious retreat has captured the hearts and imaginations of visitors and travel journalists alike, garnering prestigious awards from Conde Nast Traveller magazine and the Tatler.

Al Tarfa is not easy to reach, being in the middle of the desert and not very close to major airports, although you may be able to get an internal flight to the local Dakhla airport. Prices are at the top end of the scale, at 180 – 265 euros per person sharing a room, but the Al Tarfa Desert Sanctuary Lodge and Spa is an unforgettable treat for the senses.