Are you dreaming of a luxurious escape to the stunning shores of the Red Sea? Look no further than Solymar Soma Beach Resort in Soma Bay, Hurghada, Egypt. This premier 4-star resort offers an unparalleled blend of opulence, serenity, and excitement, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience for every guest. Join us as we take an in-depth look at what makes Solymar Soma Beach the perfect choice for your next Egyptian adventure.
Introduction
When it comes to choosing the perfect resort for your holiday, the decision can be daunting. With so many options available, how do you ensure that you select the one that will provide you with an unforgettable experience? If you have been considering Solymar Soma Beach in Hurghada, Egypt, then you are in the right place. Having recently stayed at this resort, we are here to provide you with a comprehensive review of what you can expect during your stay. From the exceptional cuisine to the top-notch service and the stunning private beach, we will cover it all. However, we will also be honest about any potential drawbacks, so you can make an informed decision for your Red Sea adventure.
Solymar Soma Beach: A Gem Among Soma Bay Resorts
Solymar Soma Beach, part of the Jaz Group, is a true gem among the resorts in Soma Bay, Hurghada. Ranked as the second-best hotel by TripAdvisor at the time of writing, this 433-room resort offers a haven of relaxation and a unique blend of Egyptian hospitality and world-class facilities.
Stunning Views from Every Room
Each room at Solymar Soma Beach features a balcony with stunning views of the pool, garden, mountains or sea, ensuring that you can enjoy the beauty of your surroundings from the comfort of your own space.
Private Beach and Excellent Dining Options
One of the standout features of Solymar Soma Beach is its private beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. The resort also boasts excellent dining options, with high-quality food that is a rarity in Egypt.
Unparalleled Holiday Experience
Every aspect of the hotel is designed to provide guests with an unparalleled holiday experience and the overall condition of the property is impressive, as evidenced by the pictures and videos we will share in this blog post.
Sophisticated and Cosmopolitan Atmosphere
The resort primarily caters to a European crowd, creating a sophisticated and cosmopolitan atmosphere. However, no place is perfect and there are a few areas where Solymar Soma Beach could improve, which we will discuss later in this review.
Price Range and Booking Tips
Price range: $$
During our stay, we paid an average nightly price of US$ 90 for a Deluxe Room on an all-inclusive basis. The resort was accommodating and allowed us to check in very early at 7:30 am without any extra charge.
If you are a savvy traveller who loves a good deal, we highly recommend checking out Expedia and HotelsCombined. These platforms often offer better prices than what you can find on Jaz’s own app or website, even though they claim to have the best rates. Before booking your next adventure, be sure to explore these sites to secure the most competitive prices.
Location and Accessibility
- Address: KM49, Hurghada Safaga Road, Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt
- Property: 4-star resort, part of the Jaz Group
- The hotel is located within:
- 45 km from Hurghada International Airport
- 10-minute drive from Safaga City Centre
- 49-minute drive from Hurghada City Centre
- Telephone: +20 65 3260 991
- Whatsapp: +20 10 2444 0062
- Email: reservation.somabeach@jazhotels.com
- Website: www.jazhotels.com/hoteldetail/62-egypt-safaga-solymar-soma-beach/overview
Getting to the Resort
- We opted for an Uber, which took approximately 45 minutes and cost 600 LE (~US$19).
- The main entrance is shared by several hotels owned by the same group.
- A security guard will stop you before allowing entry into the gated community, which only takes a minute or two and adds to the feeling of safety within the resort.
Tip: Enjoy the Spectacular Mountain Views
As you make your way to the resort, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking view of the mountains in the background. This stunning natural backdrop adds to the overall ambiance and beauty of Solymar Soma Beach.
Room Location Preferences
- For proximity to the main restaurant:
- Choose Deluxe rooms on the second floor above the reception area.
- Newer, larger rooms with balconies typically facing the mountains.
- For proximity to the beach:
- Request a room near the Remal Restaurant.
Heads-up: Room Amenities and Features
- The safe inside the room is large enough to accommodate a 15.1-inch laptop.
- The mini-bar is well-stocked and there is complimentary tea and coffee. Bottles of water are provided free of charge and additional bottles can be ordered by dialling 0. Other items in the mini-bar are chargeable. You can view the price list here.
- Laundry service is available for an additional fee.
- The bed and pillows are comfortable, ensuring a good night’s sleep.
- The air conditioning is powerful, providing much-needed relief during the sweltering summer months when temperatures soar into the high thirties.
- There is a flat-screen Hisense TV with 1 HDMI and 2 USB ports.
One minor issue we encountered was the low water pressure in the bathroom, particularly in the shower. Additionally, we had to call Housekeeping to clean the room, but this was just a small inconvenience. The housekeeping staff was very welcoming and thorough in their cleaning services.
Culinary Delights: A World of Flavours
As an all-inclusive resort, Solymar Soma Beach offers an impressive array of dining options. With access to over 10 different restaurants and bars, guests can indulge in a wide range of cuisines from around the globe.
Restaurants
- Oasis Main Restaurant: Located next to the main lobby, this is the best place to enjoy your meals. It serves a Continental Breakfast (05:30 – 07:00), Breakfast Buffet (07:00 – 10:30, only during peak season) and Dinner Buffet (18:30 – 21:30).
- Remal Beach Restaurant: Our second choice, situated right next to the beach. Although the selection is more limited compared to the Oasis Restaurant, you can find a grill station and a pizza-making area. Please note that this restaurant is not air-conditioned, which can make dining during peak summer a bit uncomfortable, despite the presence of fans. It serves a Continental Late Breakfast (10:30 – 11:30) and Lunch Buffet (12:30 – 17:00).
- Aqua Snacks Restaurant: Located next to the gym and the kids’ pool, this restaurant is usually not busy and offers snacks such as chicken panini. It also serves sandwiches (Chicken Pane, Burger, Hotdog, Shawarma & Ice Cream) from 12:30 to 17:00.
- Fayouz Restaurant: This à la carte restaurant specialises in Middle Eastern cuisine. Open every day except Saturdays and Tuesdays.
- Olivo: Another à la carte restaurant with an Italian theme. Open every day except Sundays and Wednesdays.
Bars
- The Lounge Lobby Bar: Open 24 hours, serving a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Pool Bar: Open from 10:00 to 18:00, providing local drinks and cocktails to be enjoyed near the pools.
- Bar 10, Circle Bar, and Shisha Café: Mainly used for drinks and cocktails. Open from 18:00 to 24:00. Please note that the Shisha Café is chargeable at 6 Euros.
- Waves Beach Bar: Open from 10:00 to 22:00.
The main restaurant offers such a diverse selection of food and themed nights based on different cuisines that we never felt the need to book the à la carte restaurants. The resort operates a themed menu every day, ranging from ‘International Cuisine’, ‘Egyptian Cuisine’, ‘Asian Cuisine’, to ‘European Cuisine’.
Tip: Making Reservations at À La Carte Restaurants
If you wish to dine at one of the à la carte restaurants, you can make a reservation by speaking to the reception staff. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Buffet Offerings at the Main Restaurant
Lunch and dinner at the main restaurant were buffet-style and varied. They included items such as:
- Grilled chicken
- Roast chicken
- Roast beef
- Beef meatballs
- Beef kofta
- Cauliflower gratin
- Fried chicken wings
- Pasta station
- Grill station
- Salad bar
- Selection of bread and cakes (Middle Eastern and Western)
- Rice
Breakfast was repetitive (which we did not mind) and featured items such as:
- Beef and chicken sausages
- Good selection of cheese
- Made-to-order omelettes
- Bread and cakes
Exceptional Staff and Service
The staff at Solymar Soma Beach is generally very helpful and welcoming. The Chef, Mr. Hasan, recognized us from our previous visits, which was a pleasant surprise. He mentioned that if there was anything we desired that was not available, we should let him know and he would see to it. The General Manager, Mr. Hany, also recognized us from previous visits and was very welcoming, making us feel like it was now ‘our hotel’. During our stay, we were sent a large fruit platter, which was a thoughtful gesture and much appreciated.
Areas for Improvement in Staff Training
However, it is important to note that some staff members could benefit from additional training to improve their efficiency and diligence. For example, if a staff member is not busy, they should not ignore customers who are waiting to have their drink orders taken.
Importance of Personal Hygiene While Travelling
When travelling, it is crucial to take care of your hygiene, such as washing your hands more frequently. In hot climates, bacteria tend to proliferate faster, which can lead to stomach issues if you dine with unwashed or dirty hands.
Sun, Sand and Serenity: The Beach and Pool Experience
Solymar Soma Beach is a paradise for those seeking relaxation and recreation. The resort features three swimming pools (two for adults and one for kids), with one of the pools heated during the winter months. Additionally, there is a spa facility and a fitness centre, ensuring that no matter your pace, you will find ways to unwind at this hotel.
Heads-up: The Private Beach
The resort’s private beach is located near the Remal Restaurant. It is important to note that the beach is not exceptionally long, as there is another adjacent hotel to the right and unoccupied land to the left. While the hotel does not seem to enforce walking only on their designated beach strip, they do appear to enforce this rule for swimming.
From the beach, you can enjoy superb views of the mountains to your right and a long strip of beach to your left. The seawater is crystal-clear and there are no visible reefs nearby. Be sure to check out our short video showcasing the stunning beach and pool areas of Solymar Soma Beach.
Facilities and Amenities: Enhancing Your Stay
Hotel Wi-Fi and Internet Services
- In-room: Unfortunately, there is no hotel Wi-Fi available in the rooms, either free or paid. This means that you will need to rely on a local data SIM or an international e-SIM, with no guarantee of coverage. Obtaining a local SIM card can be a hassle, as there are no telecommunications stands at Hurghada Airport, requiring you to travel to Hurghada or Safaga City Centre. However, we have been informed that the hotel will start offering Wi-Fi in rooms shortly.
- In-lobby: Hotel Wi-Fi is available in public areas, with a download speed of 107 Mbps and an upload speed of 65 Mbps, suitable for videos with up to 2160p resolution on mobile devices and laptops.
- In-main restaurant: Hotel Wi-Fi is also available in the main restaurant, albeit with a reduced download speed of 47 Mbps and an upload speed of 70 Mbps, still suitable for videos with up to 2160p resolution on mobile devices and laptops.
- In-Remal Beach restaurant: Hotel Wi-Fi is available in the beach restaurant, with a download speed of 128 Mbps and an upload speed of 74 Mbps, suitable for videos with up to 2160p resolution on mobile devices and laptops.
Tip: Using a Portable Wi-Fi Router
We used our own TP-Link Portable Wi-Fi Router with a local Etisalat data SIM card, which provided a download speed of 26 Mbps and an upload speed of 9 Mbps, suitable for videos with up to 2160p resolution on mobile devices, laptops and TVs.
Other Facilities and Services
- Gym: Open from 08:00 to 19:00.
- Shops: There are no shops around the hotel. However, there is a small supermarket with limited items within the hotel. As Solymar Soma Beach is a true all-inclusive resort, you may not need much else.
- Gardens: The gardens are well-kept, tidy, and creatively designed.
- ATM/Cash Machine (cash withdrawal): There is a Bank Misr ATM and a CIB ATM on the 1st floor of the hotel, above the reception area, accessible via stairs or lifts. There is also a Credit Agricole ATM at Hurghada Airport (arrivals), although this is not a commonly found ATM in Egypt. As always, exercise caution when using ATMs with your foreign card. Never choose ‘Dynamic Pricing’ and be mindful of the exchange rates and withdrawal charges. For more information, see our cost comparisons and recommendations for the best ATMs to use in Egypt.
- Conference room: Not available.
- Spa Facility: The MividaSpa offers a serene, upscale ambiance with skilled therapists. Choose from a menu of massages, facials, body treatments and more. Price lists are provided below.
- Tennis: Rackets and balls are available free of charge for all guests.
- Billiards, Table Tennis & Darts: Free of charge for all guests.
- Golf: Not available.
- Diving Centre: There is a charge for using the Diving Centre. Please contact the reception for additional information.
- Entertainment: You can view a sample of their Entertainment Programme here.
Jaz Hotel Group’s Commitment to Sustainability
The Jaz Gives Back programme
Solymar Soma Beach, as part of the Jaz Hotel Group, is dedicated to promoting sustainable travel and giving back to the community through the Jaz Gives Back programme. This programme is built on three pillars, each focusing on a different aspect of sustainability:
- Eco-friendly practices:
- Implements eco-friendly practices across all areas of operations.
- Includes sustainable accommodations and animal welfare programmes.
- Aims to minimize environmental footprint and adhere to the highest ecological performance principles and requirements.
- Jaz Go Green:
- Encompasses all environmental initiatives and sustainability practices of the group.
- All Jaz hotels are Green Star certified by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
- Organizes awareness campaigns, plantation drives, and participates in various green initiatives throughout the year.
- Jaz Helping Hands:
- Leads the company’s community outreach and volunteerism efforts.
- Actively collaborates with neighbouring communities.
- Organizes activities such as blood donation drives, refurbishing local schools and orphanages, donating clothes and supporting local art and culture.
Additional Initiatives
- Jaz Into The Wild:
- Aims to protect and care for local wildlife.
- Conducts Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) campaigns, vaccination campaigns, endangered species awareness programmes, migratory bird projects, and other measures.
- Underwater Clean-ups and Education:
- Organizes regular underwater clean-ups for its house reefs and marine life.
- Provides shelters and conducts sessions to educate teams and guests on how to care for the local biome.
Supporting Sustainability by Staying at Solymar Soma Beach
By choosing to stay at Solymar Soma Beach, you are not only treating yourself to a memorable holiday but also supporting a company that is deeply committed to environmental preservation and community development. Jaz Hotel Group’s Jaz Gives Back programme ensures that your holiday has a positive impact on the planet and the local community, making your stay even more meaningful and rewarding.
Exceptional Service: Going Above and Beyond
It is often said that service sets excellent hotels apart, and the staff at Solymar Soma Beach certainly deliver in this regard. From the friendly receptionists to the General Manager and Chef remembering us and our preferences from previous visits, almost every employee went above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. As a special touch, guests who return frequently may be chosen to have their names engraved on a wooden plaque, which is then attached to a palm tree of their choice within the property. This is a lovely way to make guests feel valued and appreciated.
The Verdict: A Stellar Choice for Your Hurghada Getaway
Solymar Soma Beach is a premier resort that offers a distinctive mix of opulence, serenity and excitement. As a true all-inclusive hotel, you can expect not to spend money on additional items during your stay. The resort’s diverse culinary offerings and array of facilities make it an excellent choice for your next vacation, whether you are travelling alone, as a couple or with your family. Solymar Soma Beach guarantees an unforgettable holiday experience.
After carefully evaluating Solymar Soma Beach against the key expectations for a 4-star hotel, it is evident that this resort truly lives up to its official rating. The property excels in several areas, including its refined design and decor, attentive service and a wide range of high-quality amenities.
Design, Decor and Amenities
The resort’s stylish aesthetic is evident throughout the property, from the lobby to the well-appointed rooms and public areas. The use of good-quality materials and furnishings adds to the overall luxurious feel of the resort. Solymar Soma Beach offers an impressive array of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, an on-site spa, a fitness centre and various dining options. The spacious and well-appointed rooms and private balconies, further contribute to the resort’s 4-star status.
Service and Staff
The staff at Solymar Soma Beach is exceptionally attentive, going above and beyond to anticipate and accommodate guest needs, with personalized touches that enhance the guest experience. The resort’s all-inclusive concept ensures that guests have access to a wide range of high-quality food and beverages throughout their stay.
Areas for Improvement
While the resort excels in many areas, there is still room for improvement to enhance the overall guest experience. The lack of free or paid Wi-Fi in the rooms and the low water pressure in the bathrooms are two areas that could be addressed to further elevate the resort’s offerings. Despite these minor drawbacks, Solymar Soma Beach remains a top choice for those seeking a memorable getaway in Hurghada. With its stunning private beach, exceptional dining options and dedicated staff, this resort is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Solymar Soma Beach – Rating Breakdown
Our overall rating for Solymar Soma Beach is a strong 4/5, reflecting its status as a true 4-star property. The resort’s commitment to cleanliness (4.5/5), inviting atmosphere (4.5/5), and excellent value for money (4.5/5) are particularly noteworthy. While the location (4/5), staff (4/5), food (4/5), comfort (4/5), and amenities (4/5) also contribute to the resort’s high rating, there is room for improvement in terms of Wi-Fi (2.5/5) and accessibility (3.5/5).
Cleanliness
Location
Staff
Food
Comfort
Amenities*
Atmosphere
Wifi
Accessibility
Value for money
OVERALL
* (pools, fitness centres, spas, restaurants, bars, business centres)
Conclusion
In conclusion, Solymar Soma Beach is a premier resort that offers an unforgettable holiday experience in Hurghada, Egypt. With its distinctive mix of opulence, serenity and excitement, coupled with its commitment to sustainability and community development through the Jaz Gives Back programme, this resort is an excellent choice for discerning travellers seeking a high-quality, all-inclusive getaway.
Loved exploring Solymar Soma Beach Resort with us? Discover more incredible destinations and honest reviews on our website. Uncover your next dream holiday and book your perfect escape today!
You may also want to read our blogs about other hotels and resorts in Egypt:
Jaz Makadina Resort | Makadi Bay | Hurghada
Jaz Makadi Star & Spa | Makadi Bay | Hurghada
Steigenberger Coraya Beach | Coraya Bay | Marsa Alam
Steigenberger Cecil Hotel | Alexandria
Holiday Inn Citystars | Nasr City | Cairo
Staybridge Suites Citystars | Nasr City | Cairo
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FAQs
What makes Solymar Soma Beach Resort stand out among other hotels in Hurghada, Egypt?
Solymar Soma Beach Resort, ranked as the 2nd best hotel by TripAdvisor in Soma Bay, Hurghada, offers a unique blend of Egyptian hospitality and world-class facilities. The resort boasts a private beach, excellent dining options with high-quality food, and a range of amenities designed to provide guests with an unparalleled holiday experience. The hotel’s overall condition is impressive, as evidenced by the pictures and videos shared in the blog post.
What are the different room types available at Solymar Soma Beach Resort, and what amenities do they offer?
Solymar Soma Beach Resort offers a variety of room types, each featuring a private balcony with views of the garden, pool, sea or mountains. The spacious rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as a minibar, air conditioning, and a Hisense flat-screen satellite TV with HDMI and USB ports. Guests can choose to stay in Deluxe rooms located on the second floor above the reception area for proximity to the main restaurant or request a room closer to the Remal Restaurant for easy access to the beach.
What dining options are available at Solymar Soma Beach Resort, and how do they cater to different tastes and preferences?
As an all-inclusive resort, Solymar Soma Beach offers an impressive array of dining options, with access to over ten different restaurants and bars serving a wide range of cuisines from around the globe. The main restaurant, Oasis, serves breakfast, lunch (during peak season), and dinner buffets, while the Remal Beach Restaurant offers a more limited selection but features a grill station and pizza-making area. The resort also has à la carte restaurants specializing in Middle Eastern and Italian cuisine, as well as various bars and snack options.
What recreational facilities and activities are available at Solymar Soma Beach Resort for guests seeking relaxation or adventure?
Solymar Soma Beach Resort is a paradise for those seeking relaxation and recreation. The resort features three swimming pools (two for adults and one for kids), with one of the pools heated during the winter months. Guests can also enjoy the resort’s private beach, spa facility, and fitness centre. Additionally, the resort offers free billiards, table tennis and darts for all guests. For those interested in water activities, there is a diving centre available at an additional charge.
How does Solymar Soma Beach Resort’s commitment to service and attention to detail enhance the overall guest experience?
The staff at Solymar Soma Beach Resort is known for their exceptional service, with employees going above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay for guests. From friendly receptionists to the General Manager and Chef remembering guests’ preferences from previous visits, the resort’s attention to detail and personalized touches set it apart. The resort even offers a special recognition programme for frequent visitors, with their names engraved on wooden plaques attached to palm trees within the property, making guests feel truly valued and appreciated.
