Eight things to fall in love with
Tucked away on the West Bank of the Nile, Al Moudira in Luxor is a destination that reads like a dream — part cultural escape, part wellness retreat, and wholly steeped in old-world charm. Here, time slows down beneath ochre arches and fragrant lemon trees, where every corner whispers a story and indulgence takes on a soulful tone.
The Morning Ritual
Begin your day in the courtyard, where sunlight dances through bougainvillea and the breakfast is entirely homemade. Think creamy yogurt, seasonal fruit, freshly baked pastries and fragrant herbs — much of it sourced from the hotel’s own organic farm. Savor a warm brioche or pistachio cake while planning your morning visit to the Valley of the Kings and Queens. Our tip? Book a private guide through the hotel and go early, before the sun begins to gild the desert.
Villa Zeina, A House with a Soul
We stayed at Villa Zeina, once the private residence of founder Zeina Aboukheir, and now one of six exclusive villas. A place where time stands still — with antique porcelain, vintage silverware, silk-embroidered cushions and rare carpets underfoot. The private garden and pool make it tempting to linger long past lunch. Order a homemade mezza or zucchini flower pizza and dine alfresco with dragonflies for company.
A Home for Books
Books are sacred at Al Moudira. Every villa houses a curated selection — but it’s Villa Zeina’s library that truly enchants. Soon, a dedicated tower filled with over 7,000 volumes on architecture, art, food, and history will open its doors, surrounded by water lilies and wild jasmine.
Drive Back in Time
What’s more stylish than a road trip in a vintage Karmann Ghia or a classic Mercedes? Guests can rent from Al Moudira’s private collection — for a drive along the Nile or an afternoon visit to Luxor’s ancient temples. Self-drive or be chauffeured — either way, it’s a cinematic experience.
The Beauty of Patina
Each suite and villa is uniquely dressed with European and Egyptian antiques, lovingly restored in the hotel’s own workshop. It’s this attention to detail — the polish of a brass handle, the gleam of aged wood — that makes staying here feel like living in a painting.
A Vision for 2027
By 2027, Al Moudira aims to be fully self-sufficient — in both energy and agriculture. The on-site farm is already producing handmade paper and ceramics, and soon, a new restaurant will bring farm-to-table dining to life, with menus inspired by the surrounding land and seasons.
Explore on Two Wheels
Borrow one of the hotel’s vintage bikes and pedal through lush sugarcane fields and sleepy nearby villages. It’s the perfect way to see the landscape — slowly, intimately, and with the wind in your hair.
A Serene Start
Take an early swim in the mosaic pool, then stretch into the day with a yoga session in the garden, guided by a master from India. With birdsong and palm leaves rustling above, you’ll carry the calm with you long after the day ends.
Jasmin Khezri was a guest of Egypt Beyond in Al Moudira.