Quieter Alternative to Hurghada on Egypt’s Red Sea Coast
Sinai and Red Sea Coast, Egypt
Whereas Hurghada is large, loud and brash the ancient port of Al Quseir is the antithesis, being a small, historical town on the southern Red Sea coast just discovering its potential as a resort. It provides a touch of culture with the opportunity to relax on the beach and do some snorkelling or diving.
Background
Once an important Ottoman-era town Al Quseir lies 4hrs east of Luxor on the Red Sea coast to the south of the port of Safaga. Its history can be traced back to Pharaonic times but there is little trace of it now; it was the port from which Queen Hatshepsut set out on her now-famous trading trip to the Land of Punt. The current town is dominated by its fort and its fortunes in modern times were at their height immediately prior to the opening of the Suez Canal which sealed its fate. Today it is a small, relaxed town that receives visitors keen to relax and do a little snorkelling, or more experienced divers.