Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh: A luxurious antidote to the winter blues

You know that feeling when you’re halfway through winter, wrapped in a blanket, Googling “sunny places to escape the UK”? That’s how I ended up at the Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh — and let me tell you, it’s the kind of place that doesn’t just meet your expectations; it kidnaps them, takes them to a private beach, and plies them with cocktails until they’re blissfully unrecognisable.

My three-night stay was the perfect reminder of how good life can be when you’re deciding between four pools instead of four layers of clothing. From the moment I stepped off a mercifully short airport transfer, I was swept into a world of terracotta rooftops, jasmine-scented air, and views so cinematic they could double as a Bond villain’s lair. It’s the ultimate antidote to winter blues — or, frankly, any blues at all. It’s the kind of place where you forget the word “deadline” exists and replace it with “sunset.” You’re not checking emails here; you’re checking which cocktail pairs best with a Red Sea view. And frankly, I’ve never been happier to lose track of time.

Perched on Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula along the Red Sea, this resort strikes the perfect balance: secluded enough to feel like a hidden sanctuary, but close enough to Na’ama Bay for when you crave a lively night out. Not that I ventured far — between the serene private beach and the panoramic views of the Gulf of Aqaba, I was too busy forgetting the rest of the world existed. Describing the resort’s style as “luxurious” feels almost reductive. Luxury is everywhere these days, but this? This is something else — subtle, deliberate, and deeply attuned to its surroundings. Designed to emulate a traditional Arabian village, terracotta rooftops emerge from cascading gardens, while Moorish-inspired architecture blends seamlessly into the landscape. It’s a dreamscape that wouldn’t feel out of place as the setting for a mysterious billionaire’s hideaway. Domes and arches frame cinematic views of the Red Sea, so striking you half expect a drone to sweep in for an establishing shot.

Every element here seems curated for calm, from the endless vistas of the sea to the jasmine-scented air that feels almost engineered for tranquility. Over 3,000 palm trees and lush gardens provide shaded nooks and secluded paths, enhancing the sensation of being enveloped in a private oasis. Indoors, the atmosphere is cool and restrained — marble floors, muted tones, and soft light offer a welcome reprieve from the desert sun.

This resort is an ecosystem of relaxation. Four pools cater to every vibe, whether you’re in the mood for serene, adults-only lounging or want to splash around with the kids. The on-site dive centre is a gateway to Ras Mohammed’s famous coral reefs, but even if you don’t scuba, the snorkelling alone is worth the trip. I also need to talk about the spa. It’s less “spa day” and more “spiritual awakening,” with treatments inspired by desert botanicals that leave you floating back to your room. Oh, and don’t get me started on the gym overlooking the Red Sea. Let’s just say I almost felt motivated to work out — almost.

For me, snorkelling off the resort’s private reef was an absolute highlight. My boyfriend practically had to carry me out of the sea every day. I was that obsessed. It was like swimming in a living aquarium — with schools of vibrant anthias darting around, butterflyfish and angelfish weaving gracefully through the coral, and the occasional sighting of a bold clownfish peeking out from its anemone. I even spotted a few triggerfish and the striking blue hues of a parrotfish gliding by.

This is the kind of place where adventure and relaxation coexist beautifully. Want to explore? Take a camel trek into the desert, or visit the ancient St. Catherine’s Monastery for a dose of history. Prefer to stay put? The private beach offers uninterrupted Red Sea views that could rival any postcard. Still, it would be a missed opportunity to skip a visit to Ras Mohammed National Park, just a short trip away. This protected marine reserve is a wonderland for divers and snorkelers alike, home to some of the world’s most vibrant coral reefs.

With 12 restaurants and bars, the resort delivers a culinary journey that’s as indulgent as it is diverse. Over three nights, we orchestrated a tactical dining plan to sample as many spots as possible. And somehow, each meal managed to one-up the last. In hindsight, the resort’s Asian restaurant edged out as my favourite — its menu a perfect blend of Japanese and Chinese influences, featuring unforgettable sushi and dim sum.

For lovers of Italian cuisine, Il Frantoio is a non-negotiable. Renowned for its homemade pasta and impossibly fresh seafood, it’s a slice of classic Italy right in the heart of the Sinai. Down by the beach, The Reef Grill is where you’ll want to be for lunch (or dinner, or both). Think freshly caught seafood paired with grilled specialties, served with the soothing soundtrack of waves rolling onto the shore. And for sundowners? The Observatory Lounge is pure magic, with hand-crafted cocktails and light bites served against the backdrop of a Red Sea sunset.