Samih Sawiris, the visionary mind behind Orascom Development, stumbled on El Gouna in the late 80s and conceived it as a one-of-a-kind sustainable paradise on the alluring Red Sea coast. 

He thought such a natural Eden could be a true testament to the notion of “Life as it should be”, when it turns into a fully integrated resort town. 

Orascom Development started creating Gouna in 1989, turning such a haven in Hurghada into a thriving community by being committed to building an eco-friendly development with state-of-the-art architecture and boundless facilities. 

El Gouna has flourished since then to become a vibrant, worldwide living and vacation destination in Hurghada, Egypt. It is known not only for its pristine beaches but also for its various luxurious resorts and neighborhoods, exquisite things to do, and artistic cultural scene. 

El Gouna Egypt Map

When Orascom Development initiated the construction process of Gouna in Egypt, it began by creating enchanting lagoons and world-class hotels. Afterward, the expansion of state-of-the-art golf courses started. That’s how the story of Gouna began on the Red Sea shores.

El Gouna, Hurghada, became a fully sufficient town, which was built to offer its visitors and residents a high-quality experience that is all about sustainability and culture. The map of El Gouna Egypt outlines a broad array of neighborhoods, fancy resorts, distinguishing facilities, and more.

Gouna is stretched across 10 km of azure shoreline on the dazzling Red Sea coast. It is a self-contained community that features a wide range of essential and recreational facilities, making it not only a vacation spot but also a residential destination for those seeking a coastal living experience.

The map of Gouna, Egypt, Hurghada, exhibits a wide range of facilities, such as:

• Mosques and churches
• Golf courses
• Hotels
• 100+ restaurants and cafes
• Marinas
• Banks
• Health and wellness facilities
• Education institutions
• Co-working spaces and offices
• Water sports facilities
• Retail outlets
• Conference center

Moreover, Gouna Egypt map outlines 40+ elite neighborhoods built by Orascom Development, including:

• Ancient Hill
• Fairways
• Fanadir Seafront
• Kamaran
• Miramar Residences
• North Bay
• The Nines
• Tuban Gouna
• Cyan Gouna
• Waterside Condos
• Joubal El Gouna 
• Pearl
• Art Island
• Shedwan
• South Golf Villas

There are also lavish resorts in Gouna Red Sea built by real estate gurus, such as:

• Bali El Gouna by Pillarz Real Estate Developments
• Scarab by Scarab Club
• Mangroovy by First Residence Development
• Swanlake El Gouna by Hassan Allam Properties
• Steigenberger Golf Resort by Orascom Development

Gouna Location 

Gouna is one of the most scenic destinations in Egypt, overlooking the beautiful Red Sea, and close to Hurghada. It is only a 4-hour flight from Europe’s major capitals. The prime location of Gouna on the Red Sea made the area easily accessible via various transportation routes, from buses to airplanes. 

There are over 60 daily flights to Gouna, from Western and Eastern Europe to Russia and the Middle East. 

Distance from Cairo to El Gouna

El Gouna is approximately 445 km away from Cairo, around a 5-hour drive. It can be reached by car or bus through Hurghada - Al Ismaileya/ Hurghada - Cairo/ Route 65M. 

Moreover, you can travel to Gouna from Cairo with approximately 4-hour flights. 

Distance from Hurghada to El Gouna Egypt

The ideal location of El Gouna Egypt is only 25 km North of Hurghada. It can be reached within 33 minutes via: 

• Hurghada - Al Ismaileya Road
• Hurghada - Cairo Road

Moreover, El Gouna Egypt is in proximity to Hurghada International Airport, around 40 km distance. 

Living in Gouna

El Gouna Hurghada is a flawless paradise for those looking forward to experiencing life to its fullest. It includes all essential facilities that are aimed at offering a seamless lifestyle for tranquility seekers, as well as luxurious neighborhoods with a broad range of beautifully designed homes.  

There are fancy units for sale in Gouna Egypt, varying between apartments, penthouses, duplexes, chalets, standalone villas, twin houses, and townhouses. They are scattered along the distinctive neighborhoods that Orascom Development built in Gouna Hurghada. We will tell you about some of them in the following sections.

Ancient Hills in Gouna, Hurghada, Egypt

Ancient Hills spreads across 396,000 sqm in Gouna, Egypt, where its beach houses exhibit breathtaking views of the neighborhood’s majestic lake, the golf course, the mountains, and the enchanting Red Sea.

There are luxurious properties for sale in Ancient Hills El-Gouna, ranging from chalets to standalone villas, twin houses, and townhouses. Moreover, they are accompanied by private swimming pools. 

Miramar Residences

Orascom developed the Miramar Residence Neighborhood over a 4,000 sqm area in El Gouna, overlooking an open lagoon. Its lavish units are placed amid lush greenery and are accompanied by an infinity pool, 24/7 concierge services, and enchanting views of the lagoons and a wide beachfront.

Miramar Residences Gouna Hurghada exhibits various properties for sale, ranging from studios to apartments and penthouses. 

Cyan Gouna, Hurghada

Cyan Gouna Neighborhood covers 121 acres of land, featuring glistening artificial lakes, vast greenery, and modern homes. Furthermore, Cyan exhibits a Karl Litten 9-hole golf course.

There are elite units for sale in El Gouna Hurghada in the Cyan Neighborhood, varying between standalone villas, twin houses, townhouses, and apartments. 

Shedwan Gouna Egypt

Orascom Development constructed Shedwan Gouna over 419,000 sqm in Egypt. It features a natural haven as well as high-end facilities, such as a top-notch gym, a kids’ play area, a dog park, and fancy lounges.

There are state-of-the-art units for sale in Shedwan El Gouna in Hurghada, Egypt, ranging from standalone villas and townhouses to apartments. 

North Bay Gouna Egypt

North Bay is one of the most dazzling neighborhoods comprising a 440,000 sqm area in Gouna. It perfectly integrated vivid colors, sparkling lagoons, and flawless indoor and outdoor concepts. Moreover, it exhibits a public pavilion where exquisite events are hosted, and it features a lively clubhouse, a top-notch gym, and a fancy spa.

Orascom Development built a wide range of units for sale in North Bay Gouna, varying between twin houses and standalone villas with different areas and designs. 

El Gouna Hurghada Top Resorts

In addition to the lavish neighborhoods of Gouna Egypt, many innovative real estate developers built luxurious resorts in the area with high-end amenities, elite units, and close to the popular destinations in El-Gouna. 

• Hassan Allam Properties developed Swanlake Gouna Resort over 186 acres of land, featuring many distinctive features, such as:

1. A private beach
2. Fine dining venues
3. A social clubhouse with unparalleled amenities
4. Swimming pools

It built a broad range of upscale properties for sale in Swanlake Gouna, varying between apartments, penthouses, chalets, and duplexes. They are accompanied by high-end services which include:

1. Housekeeping 
2. 24/7 security services
3. Five-star hospitality services

• Furthermore, Orascom Development built the Steigenberger Golf Resort to be a testament to elegance, serenity, and exclusivity. The project exhibits sports and wellness facilities as well as a luxurious spa, fancy restaurants, and a myriad of outdoor activities.

There are lavish units for sale in Steigenberger Golf Resort in Gouna with splendid Nubian touches.

• Mangroovy El Gouna Resort is also one of the finest projects in the area, constructed by First Residence Development over a 193,000 sqm area. It exhibits a myriad of exciting underwater activities, such as snorkeling, fishing, and windsurfing.

Mangroovy El Gouna Hurghada features a wide range of high-end units for sale, varying between chalets, twin houses, and townhouses. 

Best Hotels in Gouna, Egypt

El Gouna exhibits some of the most luxurious hotels in Egypt, with world-class hospitality services and enchanting views. Not to mention that each one has its own distinctive theme and high-end amenities. 

Some of the best hotels in El Gouna, Hurghada, are:

• Ali Pasha Hotel, which is Arabian-inspired and in the heart of Abu Tig Marina.
• Captain’s Inn, within Gouna Marina.
• Club Paradisio Gouna Red Sea, a beachfront hotel that is perfect for families.
• Fanadir Hotel, where tranquility meets dazzling views of Gouna Marina and the town’s vibrant attractions.
• La Maison Bleue, an adult-only lavish beach hotel. 
• Mosaique Hotel, within walking distance from Abu Tig Marina, and is a popular destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts.
• Turtle’s Inn, where the bohemian vibes intertwine with the luxurious facilities of El Gouna Hurghada.
• Sultan Bey Hotel, an Egyptian-inspired paradise in Downtown Gouna.
• Casa Cook Gouna, a five-star adults-only hotel with laid-back vibes. 
• Villa Coconut Hotel, a luxurious boutique hotel for adults. 

Facilities of El Gouna, Hurghada

The map of El Gouna Hurghada features a wide range of distinguishing facilities that turned it into a fully-sufficient coastal Eden. From educational to medical and recreational facilities, El-Gouna offers its residents and visitors a prime convenient experience.

The educational facilities of Gouna Egypt include outstanding schools that focus on your young ones’ development by offering dynamic learning experiences, and they include:

• The Montessori House Trillium 
• Gouna International School (EGIS)

Moreover, there are unique universities in Gouna Hurghada with unmatched curricula, such as:

• The German Hotel School El Gouna
• Technische Universität Berlin Campus El Gouna
• El Gouna Technical Nursing Institute

El Gouna Egypt also features a fully-equipped hospital and various medical clinics, whether you are having a medical emergency or need a quick checkup. 

Additionally, there are beauty salons in Gouna Egypt, such as:

• Zai Beauty Salon
• Prima Beauty Salon
• Al Sagheer Salon
• Bro Tailor

The distinguishing facilities of El Gouna Hurghada also include a variety of shops, for instance:

• Abu Amer in Downtown Gouna
• Azza Fahmy Jewelry in Abu Tig Marina
• Diwan Bookstore in Downtown Gouna
• Gourmet Market 
• In Your Shoe

Besides the vital facilities in El Gouna Hurghada, there are many distinctive recreational ones, such as:

• Sports facilities

Whether you are looking forward to experiencing an adrenaline rush through water, land, or air, Gouna has got you covered. There are aerial sports, horse riding, water sports, padel tennis, squash, and tennis facilities in El Gouna. 

• 18-hole Championship Golf Courses
• Sea Cinema
• El Gouna FC
• More than 100 fine-dining restaurants and cafes
• Delightful beaches and a broad range of swimming pools
• Fanadir Marina
• Abydos Marina
• Abu Tig Marina

Furthermore, Gouna Egypt features a wide variety of co-working spaces with unparalleled amenities, such as:

• WiFi
• Dedicated desks and comfortable seating areas
• Outdoor areas
• Security system
• Lockers
• Cleaning services 

There are also meeting rooms in El Gouna Hurghada that operate 24/7, and they feature:

• Shared spaces
• Training rooms
• WiFi and round-the-clock security 

Not to mention that Gouna has high-end private offices with 24/7 access services. 

Beaches in El Gouna Red Sea

Immerse in matchless joy at the bewitching pristine beaches of Gouna and its crystal clear pools. 

1. El Gouna Sailing Club

This is one of the top beach clubs in Gouna Egypt with a variety of activities, such as boat trips, sailing, rowing on the Red Sea waves, and thrilling watersports. It also exhibits mouthwatering dining options such as La Plancha and a top-tier fitness facility. Not to mention that it is a child and pet-friendly destination. 

1. KBC El Gouna Hurghada

If you are a kitesurfing enthusiast, KBC El Gouna is your faultless destination, with its expert instructors and plenty of available gear. It also features a shallow lagoon, swimming pool, beach bar and restaurant, and a kids’ area.

1. La Playa El Gouna

This is an open lagoon beach in El Gouna Egypt, where you can unwind and relax, and step into a myriad of unparalleled amenities. La Playa El Gouna features fancy lounges where you can relax by the edge of turquoise water, as well as a fine dining restaurant serving culinary delights.

1. Makani Beach Club El Gouna Hurghada

Makani Beach Club is a faultless hangout spot in El Gouna for those who want to indulge in watersports, unwind on a marvelous beach, and have an energetic workout. It includes a one-of-a-kind kitesurf center and a fully-equipped fitness hub.

1. Moods Beach Club El Gouna

At the top of Abu Tig Marina, Moods Beach Club lies, granting those who are looking for a relaxing spot in El Gouna by the Red Sea a beautiful aesthetic. It exhibits an exquisite dining option in front of the sea and operates till sunset.

1. The Smokery Beach Bar and Restaurant

Indulge your taste buds in delightful cuisines and blissful beats at The Smokery Yacht Club in El Gouna. Sit back, relax, and enjoy mouthwatering dishes with open-sea views. 

1. Zouni Beach El Gouna

One of the best beaches in El Gouna Hurghada is Mangroovy-Zouni Beach Club with its dazzling restaurants and cafes as well as a kids’ area.

El Gouna Marina

The stunning marinas of El Gouna each exhibit its distinctive vibe and matchless facilities for yacht enthusiasts. They are the dockyard of El Gouna’s diving boats and high-end hangout spots.

1. Abu Tig Marina

Abu Tig Marina is a bewitching and modern destination in Gouna Red Sea with a variety of luxurious yachts, diverse restaurants, retail outlets, and activities.

The unique amenities of Abu Tig Marina in Gouna include:

• Metered electricity and water
• Wastewater pump
• 24hour security
• Dry store for over 100 boats
• WiFi
• Gasoline station
• VHF 73

1. Abydos Marina

Characterized by serenity and originality, Abydos Marina is one of the quietest gems in El Gouna that can accommodate up to 60 yachts, and its amenities include:

• Diesel Fuel Station
• VHF Channel 06
• Electricity and water

1. Fanadir Marina

Unravel a harmonious blend of lively vibes and tranquility in Fanadir Marina in Gouna. It is a social hub with a variety of shops, retail venues, and restaurants. 

Downtown El Gouna, Egypt 

El Gouna Downtown is a vibrant hub with a wide range of shops, restaurants, and hotels. Not to mention that it is a faultless destination to unravel the exquisite nightlife of El Gouna Red Sea. 

It includes many beauty salons and diversified shops, from markets to bookstores, and watersports gear. Moreover, some of the best restaurants in Gouna are in the Downtown, such as:

• Karibu Bar and Restaurant
• Zouni Bar
• El Bahr
• Fish Market
• BBQ Bros

Additionally, Downtown El Gouna has luxurious hotels with impeccable amenities, such as:

• Cook’s Club Gouna
• Three Corners - Rihana Resort
• The Chedi El Gouna
• Sultan Bey Hotel

Best Restaurants in Gouna

El Gouna Hurghada is the home of delightful restaurants and bars with heavenly dishes and distinct cuisines, for instance:

• Tandoor Restaurant in Ali Pasha Hotel: authentic Indian dishes.
• Marina Steakhouse in Captain’s Inn: International.
• The Tap South: American and grill dishes.
• Mer Bey Restaurant: Lebanese cuisine.
• Oasis Pool Restaurant and Bar: serving international drinks, snacks, and light meals.
• Afandina Restaurant in Abu Tig Marina: with oriental and Egyptian dishes. 
• Mazagouna: offering Middle Eastern cuisines.
• El Bahr: for a delightful seafood indulgence. 
• Bodega Restaurant and Bar: with Mexican dishes.
• Better Buns: with exquisite American food.
• Sotto Sopra: with Italian charms.
• Mori Sushi El Gouna: for delightful Japanese dishes. 

Things to Do in El Gouna

Whether you are living in Gouna or visiting it to escape the hustle and bustle of the city into the beautiful Red Sea coast, there are many things to do that will brighten your mood. Whether you are a music lover, an adrenaline seeker, a shopaholic, or a cinephile, El Gouna's authenticity and distinguishing facilities and events are for you.

• You can’t be by the Red Sea and not immerse yourself in thrilling water activities, such as kitesurfing, diving, and taking a glimpse of the beautiful coral reefs and marine life, a variety of watersports, and navigating the idyllic blue elements of El Gouna on a boat. 

• Moreover, there are many physical activities you can enjoy on land in Gouna Egypt, including padel tennis, squash, horseback riding, and motorsport. 

• If you are a true lover of golf, there are many destinations you should visit to unleash the golfaholic in you, such as El Gouna Golf Club and Ancient Sands Golf Club.

• Enjoy El Gouna’s nightlife wonders, gather your friends, and try some of its bewildering bars, for example:

1. Mint Bar and Lounge
2. Lobby Bar in Club Paradisio
3. Reflection Bar in Fanadir Hotel
4. Soleil Pool Bar
5. Lagoon Beach Bar

• Unwind and revive your body and mind in one of the best spas in El Gouna Red Sea.

• You can also enjoy a nice movie screening in the enchanting Sea Cinema of El Gouna Egypt.

• Not to mention that splendid events are held in El Gouna Hurghada for delightful enjoyment, such as El Gouna Film Festival, summer parties, boat parties, Sandbox Festival El Gouna, and wellness festivals. 

El Gouna Film Festival

In partnership with Orascom Development, Gouna Film Festival (GFF) is one of the most artistic festivals in the MENA region. It is held to showcase how films depict cultural diversity, support emerging filmmakers, and offer them networking opportunities. It was founded by Naguib and Samih Sawiris. 

Many countries participate in Gouna Film Festival to display their authentic film culture, from France to China, Palestine, Syria, Egypt, and the US.

Gouna Weather 

El Gouna Hurghada is well known for its year-round amazing weather. The Red Sea’s reviving wind made it one of the best destinations 365 days a year. 

Gouna Egypt is characterized by its ideal weather all year long, with a mix of light to strong windy days in winter.