The wonderful lakes of Fayoum represent some of the most beautiful hunting areas in the Middle East region. Also known for having played an important role in the history of the Pharaonic, Coptic, Greek, Roman, and Islamic periods of Egypt, visitors may explore the many historical and natural sites found nearby to the hotel, or enjoy the unspoiled Egyptian countryside and the golden sandy beaches, or do a bit of everything!
The Valley of the Whales: Also known as Wadi Al-Hitan, the Valley of the Whales was once the bottom of the sea but it dried outinto desert sand and today contains the skeleton shells and the invaluable fossil remains of the earliest, and now extinct, suborder of whales, Archaeoceti. These fossils represent one of the major demonstrations of evolution and for that reason is one of the most important sites in the world. The number, concentration and quality of such fossils here is unique, as is their accessibility and setting in an attractive and protected landscape.
Meidum Pyramid: Situated across from the Fayoum Nile Valley above the green fields of Meidum is a tower shaped structure, around sixty-five meters high. A pyramid that is believed to have been built by the 4th dynasty king, it is considered one of the most mysterious of all the great Pyramids.
Hawwarah Pyramid: Known also as the Labyrinth, the Pyramid of Hawara (built by Amenemhet III in the 12th dynasty) was the most visited site of the ancient World. Herodotus visited the site in 5th century B.C., claimed to have counted three thousand rooms in the pyramids funeral complex.
Valley of Rayan: Located 50 kilometers out to Fayoum, in the southwestern part of the governorate; is Fayoum’s most famous lake, known as WadiRayan (Rayan lake). Consisting of upper and lower lakes and waterfalls area, as well as wide stretch of sand dunes and wide-open vistas, this tranquil area is a great place to reflect on the beauty of nature and is a nice change from the noise and distractions of city life.
Monastery of Azab: Built during the twelfth century, the Monastery of El Azab dates back to the Roman Era. Located in the Azab Village, 5 km south of Fayoum, it is also known as Deir Al-Adrah (the Monastery of Virgin Mary) and the Monastery of (Abu Seifein) St. Mercurius. It was identified as the Monastery of Anba Abraam since it is the burial place of St Abram, the revered Bishop of Fayoum and Giza between 1882 and 1914. The monastery comprises a library, a sanctuary for Anba Abraam, a garden, as well as a Coptic museum. Also enclosed within the monastery are five churches.
Mosque of Qatbay: Ashraf Qaitbay was a 15th century Mameluke Sultan of Egypt who was renowned for his construction plans all over the country. He built a famous citadel in Alexandria holding his name. He built this mosque as he was frequently visiting the area. The mosque has a dome raised over ancient Pharaonic columns that once belonged to a temple in Kiman Fares. Water comes to the mosque's ablution well directly from the canal of Bahr Youssef (Yusuf).
Water Wheels: Due to the fact that it's farmland is watered by the region's landmark waterwheels, the waterwheels are a prominent feature of Fayoum and a source of pride to the local population. They are made of local wood and certain families specialize in making them.