Hedayat Reda Dusk approaches earlier and earlier, the city is abustle with plans and parties and intimate get-togethers, everyone catching up, people flying in from abroad to be with their loved ones, families atwitter with “who wants what?” and “where shall we go?” and “let’s grab a hot cocoa somewhere.”
Whether you celebrate the season, or just want an excuse to hunker down and feel well cared for, we’ve curated a special list of in-city and city-adjacent escapes for you to immerse yourselves in and feel the holiday cheer.
- The Ever-elegant Villa Belle Epoque–Maadi
With an outdoor area sequestered in the shade of guava, mango, acacia and lemon trees, and an indoor area that is cozy, historical and classical, you can’t go wrong with a stay at this one-of-a-kind gem. Tucked away in the sidestreet of road 13 in Maadi– a district known for its walkability and beautiful foliage– VBE is a local favourite. With 13 period-style rooms that are as comfortable as they are charming, you will feel right at home amongst the canopy beds and antique floral wallpaper. Belle Epoque is also home to Acacia– a renowned restaurant where you can savour delights like Almond Chicken, Beef and Truffle Cream Risotto, and the famous Pumpkin Crème Brulée as you lounge by the dim lights of the outdoor pool. This is a perfect date night spot for you and your significant other, and a romantic place to catch up with the girls.
- The Magical Exhale: Lazib Inn Resort & Spa– Fayoum
December is a perfect time for a little getaway for you and your loved one(s) and Fayoum– just 2.5hrs from Cairo– is the perfect destination. Enter Lazib Inn, a charming luxury boutique hotel, nestled on a hill in Tunis village overlooking Lake Qaroun. Each room at Lazib has a slightly different layout and is outfitted with beautiful art work and personal touches from the owners’ collection as well as an en-suite fireplace. Whether you are spending the weekend sequestered in the heart of Tunis village, engaging in wholesome activities like pottery-making and eating your weight in feteer, or if you are only popping by for the day for a locally sourced and organically grown meal at The Blue Donkey, nothing can beat Lazib Inn’s winter wonderland vibe.One of my personal favourite Lazib memories is a cold December night, plenty of tinsel and Om Ali, and a group huddle by the outdoor bonfire. For a unique Christmas celebration, check out the Lazib Wine&Dine Christmas Eve Experience, where you and your s.o can enjoy a gourmet 7-course dinner and wake up to a hearty filling breakfast.
- The Sparkling Extravaganza: Mazeej Balad– Downtown Cairo
In the heart of Downtown Cairo in the storied La Viennoise Building, Mazeej is both an intimate retreat from the city, and a glimpse into the city at its finest. Designed by architect Malak Orfy, the five unique and tasteful rooms blend old-world charm and modern luxury infused with GNK’s creative signature. As a guest of Mazeej, you will be treated like a queen. The team has prepared charming holiday activations — from morning Shay bel Laban with biscuits to sweet surprise candy-cane gifts — adding a festive touch to every stay. On the roof, a sprawling view of Cairo unfolds. With tinsel streaming around you, you can enjoy one of the Rooftop restaurant’s winter favourites such as the Sweet Potato with Garlic and Nuts and the Duck On a Bed of Gravy Lentils, and then “tehalli bo2ak” with the classic Mazeej Profiteroles or the Roz B Laban Springrolls infused with caramelized oranges. Mazeej is truly a home away from home. Follow Mazeej social media for more news on holiday events.
- The Cosy Home-Away-From-Home: Numero Cinq- Zamalek
In the Shade of Bahgat Ali’s trees, Numero Cinq is a warm kaleidoscope of earth tones and tile. The multi-storied house lined with books and vintage pieces, absorbs you, taking you into Mehany’s traveled mind and giving you the feel of a secluded Mediterranean oasis. Each room in this secluded hideaway is named after a raw material used in perfumery and bathed in its own specially tailored scent, crafted by the “nose” and founder of Le Nez Fragrance Bar (and Mehany’s partner) Mariham Habashy.
With Poinsettias and garlands galore covering the house in December– the grand entryway, the homey white staircase, the outdoor bar and veranda, you immediately feel transported into a Winter Wonderland. Go for the fragrance experience– you can take special workshops in perfumery–, stay for the warm and friendly staff.
- The Rustic Romantic: Dar Bulbul- Al Fayoum
In a small tucked away alley in Tunis village lies one of Egypt’s best-kept secrets (in my humble opinion)– Dar Bulbul B&B. Run by longtime couple Sarah and Fady, this 6-room escape is both charming and luxurious in its comfort and warmth. With handmade touches amassed from multiple expeditions– vintage doors, old Egyptian tile– the luster and beauty of this place is hard to describe, you have to see it in person. Our first visit was straight out of Covid in 2023, when they had just opened, and we have been dreaming about going back ever since. Enjoy a relaxing sunset on the roof overlooking Lake Qarun, or a warm cup of Sahlab by the pool as you jab away to your girlfriends while relaxing beneath the clear night sky.
Sarah and Fady are always there to answer all of your questions and to guide you on any expeditions or adventures you want to have around Fayoum.
