If you've spent any time looking at the Egyptian coastline, you’ve seen the photos. Those rows of terracotta-roofed villas cascading down to a neon-blue sea. It’s a vibe. But let’s be real for a second—Sharm El Sheikh is packed with "luxury" resorts that feel a bit tired or, frankly, like they’re trying too hard. Four Seasons Hotel Sharm El Sheikh is usually the one everyone points to as the gold standard.
Is it? Honestly, it depends on what you’re after.
If you want a massive, pulsating water park and buffet lines a mile long, you’re in the wrong place. This isn't that. This is the kind of spot where the staff remembers your name by the second day and somehow knows exactly how you like your coffee before you even sit down. It’s quiet. It’s expansive. It’s a bit like living in a private Mediterranean village that just happens to be on the edge of the Red Sea.
The layout is massive (and a little confusing)
When the resort underwent its massive expansion recently, it basically doubled in size. We’re talking about 44 hectares now. That’s huge. It’s so big they have a funicular—basically a mountain elevator—to get you from the upper levels down to the beach. You’ll probably get lost at least once.
The architecture is that classic Arabian-meets-Mediterranean style. Think arched doorways, hidden courtyards, and lots of palm trees. Because the property is built on a hillside, almost every room has a view of the water. But here’s the thing: because it’s so spread out, you’re going to be calling for golf carts. A lot. If you’re the type who likes to walk everywhere, bring good shoes, or just embrace the fact that you’re living the buggy life for a week.
The newer side of the resort feels much more modern, with sleek lines and massive suites that feel like apartments. The "old" side—though they’ve renovated it—has that more traditional, cozy feel. It’s a weird mix, but it works because the landscaping ties it all together.
Let’s talk about the reef
Most people come to Sharm for the diving. The Red Sea is legendary. But here’s the kicker: at Four Seasons Hotel Sharm El Sheikh, you don't even need a boat. Their house reef is spectacular.
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You just walk out onto the jetty, hop in, and you’re immediately surrounded by lionfish, clownfish, and maybe a sea turtle if you’re lucky. It’s right there. You’ve got easy access to Tiran Island and Ras Mohammed National Park, which are world-class spots, but having that level of snorkeling literally steps from your bed is a game-changer. The dive center on-site, run by experts who actually know the currents, is legit. They aren't just handing out fins; they’re teaching you about the ecosystem.
The water is clear. Like, ridiculously clear. Even if you aren't a diver, just sitting on the pier watching the fish through the surface is kinda therapeutic.
What you're actually eating
Food at luxury resorts can be hit or miss. Sometimes it’s all presentation and no soul. Here, they’ve got about 12 different spots to eat.
Yatai is probably the standout. It’s inspired by Asian street food markets, but, you know, fancy. The sushi is fresh—which it better be, considering the ocean is ten feet away—and the teppanyaki tables are a whole performance. Then you have Bulls & Bears, which is your classic upscale steakhouse. It feels very "old world," with dark wood and heavy leather chairs. It’s the kind of place you go when you want a massive ribeye and a glass of red after a day in the sun.
But honestly? The best meal is usually the breakfast at Zitouni. It’s Lebanese/Egyptian focused. Do not skip the foul medames or the fresh flatbreads they bake right there in the oven. It ruins normal breakfast for you once you go home.
- Zitouni: Incredible Egyptian breakfast spread.
- Luna: High-altitude poolside dining with Latin American flavors.
- Reef Grill: Right by the water, great for simple grilled seafood.
- Bar Lounge: Good for a sunset drink, though it gets crowded.
The "Service" factor
This is where the price tag starts to make sense. In many Egyptian resorts, service can feel either over-eager or totally absent. At the Four Seasons, they’ve nailed the "invisible" service. Your room gets cleaned while you’re at breakfast. Your sunglasses get polished while you’re lounging by one of the five pools. Someone brings you a shot of frozen fruit juice just as you’re starting to feel the heat.
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It's those little things. You aren't just a room number.
There’s a dedicated "Kids for All Seasons" club too. If you have kids, this is a lifesaver. It’s not just a room with some crayons; they actually do stuff like Egyptian craft sessions and lizard hunts. It allows the parents to actually, you know, relax at the spa. Speaking of the spa—it’s heavy on the local ingredients. They use things like hibiscus and sea salt. It’s worth the splurge if your back is killing you from the flight.
Real talk: The downsides
Nothing is perfect. Let’s be honest.
First, the price. It is expensive. Probably the most expensive stay in Sharm. If you’re on a budget, this isn't the one. You’re paying for the brand, the security, and the level of detail.
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Second, the "Sharm" factor. Sharm El Sheikh itself is a bit of a tourist bubble. If you want "authentic" Egypt, you go to Luxor or Cairo. You come here to disappear into a resort. If you leave the gates of the Four Seasons, you’re met with a lot of neon lights, souvenir shops, and people trying to sell you tours. It can be a bit of a culture shock compared to the serene vibe inside the hotel.
Third, the hills. I mentioned it before, but if you have mobility issues, this property is a challenge. They have the funicular and the carts, but it’s still a lot of verticality.
How to do it right
If you’re going to book, try to aim for the shoulder seasons. Late October through November, or March through April. The weather is perfect—warm enough to swim but not "melt-your-face-off" hot. Summer in Sharm is brutal. We're talking 40°C (104°F) plus.
Also, ask for a room in the newer "Pearl" or "Palm" courtyards if you want that modern, airy feel. The older rooms are charming and closer to the beach, but the new ones are just massive and feel more like a luxury residence.
Practical Steps for Your Trip:
- Book the airport transfer: Don't haggle with taxis at SSH. The hotel car is seamless and worth the peace of mind.
- Download the App: You can chat with the concierge in real-time. Need more towels? Just text them. It’s way better than using the bedside phone.
- Reservations are key: Even if the hotel doesn't seem full, the best tables at Yatai or Bulls & Bears fill up. Book your dinners as soon as you arrive.
- Check the wind: Sharm can get windy. If the red flag is up at the jetty, snorkeling is a no-go for safety. Have a backup plan, like a desert safari or a spa day.
Ultimately, Four Seasons Hotel Sharm El Sheikh isn't just a place to sleep. It’s a self-contained ecosystem. It’s for the traveler who wants the Red Sea’s natural beauty without the chaos that usually comes with it. You’re paying for the ability to turn your brain off completely. For some, that’s overpriced; for others, it’s exactly what a vacation should be.
Pack more sunscreen than you think you need. The Egyptian sun doesn't play around, even when there's a breeze. Grab a snorkel mask that actually fits your face before you fly out, because while the hotel has gear, having your own makes those morning swims a lot more enjoyable. If you're planning on diving, make sure your certification is up to date or be prepared to do a "discover" dive with the instructors on-site—they're patient and the conditions are perfect for beginners. Finally, leave some space in your suitcase; the local spices and textiles in the nearby markets are hard to resist, even if you spend 90% of your time inside the resort walls._