| |  | | Aswan is a city in the south of Egypt standing on the east bank of the Nile at the first cataract and is a busy market and tourist centre. The sunniest (driest) ancient frontier town is 81 miles south of Luxor. Small enough to explore on foot and graced with the most beautiful setting on the Nile, where the pace of life is slow and laid back. In Aswan the Nile is the most beautiful point, while it is flowing through amber desert and granite rocks, round emerald islands covered in palm groves and tropical plants. Explore the souk, full of the scent and colour of spices, perfumes, scarves and baskets. On the opposite shore the cliffs found occupied by the tomb of a marabut, Qubbet el-Hawwa, who was a local saint. Below are tombs of the local (pharaonic) nobles and dignitaries. |  | Hotel New Cataract Aswan:      From US$ 123 - Aswan, Egypt 144 rooms, the hotel is located on the banks of the Nile river, opposite the -Elephantine- Island and Aswan city. 300m from the -Nubian- Museum and 3km from the historical... | |  | Sofitel Old Cataract Aswan:      - Aswan, Egypt Overlooking the Nile, across from the legendary Elephantine Island. Victorian architecture combines elegantly with interior decor inspired by the Orient. This unique hotel... | | | |  | | |