Meet Jeanne Drotter, the quietly charismatic force behind La Maison Bleue, where time slows and elegance lingers in every detail. With a touch of French savoir-faire and a deep reverence for Egyptian soul, she’s turned this Red Sea hideaway into a place that feels both cinematic and deeply personal. IRMA sat down with her to talk about slow mornings, sea-bound lunches, and the poetry of hospitality.
IRMA:What inspired you to come to La Maison Bleue?
JEANNE DROTTER: Three years ago, the owner, Mr. Samih Sawiris, reached out to me for what was initially meant to be a short-term mission lasting one to three months. The timing was urgent, as the El Gouna Film Festival was about to begin, La Maison Bleue was hosting all the VIPs, and the hotel was without a General Manager.
I had heard a lot about La Maison Bleue from the owner, whom I meet every year on a small island where my family has a summer home and where he’s spent every summer for the past 20 years. I had always been curious to visit this gem on the Red Sea and rediscover Egypt as an adult. The timing was perfect for me, having just finished a beautiful season in Saint-Tropez, The idea of a temporary adventure was appealing, so I packed my bags. But once I arrived, I fell for the place and stayed to help bring it back to life.
IRMA: How would you describe the blend of French and Egyptian “savoir-vivre”?
JEANNE DROTTER: La Maison Bleue is a graceful dance between French flair and Egyptian warmth, rooted in the vision of the late Amr Khalil. We’ve preserved every detail of his design, even sourcing original fabrics and working with the same artisans. The rule was clear: improve everything, but change nothing. My own hospitality style comes from growing up in Nice and Paris, and our chef Vincent brings Brittany’s elegance to the table. It all creates a welcoming home where guests feel embraced by both cultures.
IRMA: How would you envision the perfect day at La Maison Bleue?
JEANNE DROTTER: A perfect day at La Maison Bleue begins without an alarm—here, time seems to slow down. I would recommend starting with some light movement, maybe a yoga session with Sandy or a body movement workout with her husband, Abdelrahman, just enough to open up the appetite. Then, enjoy your favorite breakfast on the terrace, sipping the tea I smuggle from Paris, while taking in the beautiful sea view with kitesurfers in the distance.
Next, embark on a small excursion at sea with Captain Ramadan on our newly renovated TEE boat. Find and follow dolphins, swim with them, and snorkel around the beautiful coral reefs. Chef Vincent can pack a light lunch, or you could indulge in Ramadan’s cuisine—a delightful and opulent Egyptian seafood feast!
After returning, unwind in the spa with a steam or sauna session, followed by a Thai massage from our wonderful therapists, PA and Julia. Dinner would be a magical experience under the stars, organized by Chef Vincent. The next day, I would suggest relaxing by the pool with a great book and taking a leisurely stroll around the garden and our greenhouse, perhaps sampling the “salad of the day” before an excursion in town.
IRMA: What is your favorite spot in the hotel?
JEANNE DROTTER: It changes with the light and my mood. On sunny days, I love the shaded terrace with birdsong that feels like eternal spring. On cooler nights, the fireplace in the living room wraps you in warmth. I often retreat to the garden when I want to think. And there’s magic in the mosaic columns, starlit corridors, and painted ceilings that reveal themselves slowly over time.
IRMA: Which book would you recommend bringing to La Maison Bleue?
JEANNE DROTTER: This is a place to truly switch off—so bring more than one book. For something local, try Taxi by Khaled Al Khamissi. For lighter reads by the sea: Novecento, Schachnovelle, or The Old Man and the Sea. If you’re in a reflective mood, L’homme qui plantait des arbres or anything by Marcel Pagnol is perfect. And if you forget Death on the Nile, no problem—we have it in every language!
IRMA: What’s your favorite dish by Chef Vincent?
JEANNE DROTTER: At lunch, I love the salad of the day—fresh, surprising, and seasonal from our garden. Chef Ramy often adds a unique touch, like a new dressing or fruit. For dinner, Chef Vincent’s grilled shrimp from Alexandria are unbeatable. He follows it with a sea bass baked in salt crust, served with a delicate Hollandaise. It’s simple, elegant, and unforgettable.
IRMA: Which song would you hear at La Maison Bleue?
JEANNE DROTTER: Mornings begin with Les Baricades Mystérieuses by François Couperin—soft, romantic, and uplifting. It sounds like falling in love with the day. Evenings are for Dorsaf Hamdani, whose voice blends French chanson with Egyptian nostalgia. She brings together the worlds of Barbara and Fairouz. Her music mirrors the soul of La Maison Bleue.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Relais & Château for arranging our stay at Hotel La Maison Bleue.