Beautiful accommodation in unique Siwa oasis in Egypt: serene, peaceful, re-connect with the simplicity and beauty of nature in its most authentic form.
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Overview
Adrere Amellal: A Place Out Of Time
"This is a place with a very special, luxurious sense of the primitive, surrounded by the kind of magic that only ancient tribes, majestic mountains and ruthless desert climates can conjure.” - W. Geordie Greig, Nomad’s Land, Tatler Magazine, April 2007
"At night it is so quiet that you begin to hear the stars.” - Benedict Allen, Desert Retreats”, Harper’s Abroad, June 2002
“Adrère Amellal desert eco lodge is a paradox in process, mingling the asceticism of a Cistercian monastery, the luxuries of a Turkish seraglio, and the whimsy of a Cape Cod sandcastle.” - Conde Nast Traveler November 2000
Sixteen kilometers from the charming town of Siwa, lies Adrère Amellal. An ecolodge overlooking Lake Siwa and nestled at the foot of the mystical ‘White Mountain’.
Adrère Amellal is host to 40 rooms all built in the traditional Siwan style, walls are made of salt-rock, and palm is used for the roofs. Every room is unique, combining distinction and authenticity. The earthen buildings blend naturally into the landscape, and all furniture and crafts pay tribute to the talented local artisanship. Other special features include ancient olive and palm groves, slow-bubbling Roman springs, and an exquisite cuisine that includes traditional dishes cooked in honey-glazed clay pots. All herbs and vegetables are handpicked daily from our organic garden.
With no electricity and no telephone (cell phones are not permitted outside the room), Adrère Amellal is in perfect harmony with its natural surroundings. Torches, beeswax candles and infinite stars illuminate the setting, while old style braziers warm the cool evenings.
A plethora of activities are available with the only limitation being the desert’s mood: relaxing by the pool which is fed by a natural spring and is free of any chemicals, refreshing oneself by Lake Siwa, discovering the sand dunes of the Great Sand Sea, travelling back in time in Old Shali and its historic fortress, or horse-back riding among palm and olive groves.
Adrère Amellal attracts travellers who are looking for unique, high quality, environmentally and socially conscious accommodation. The ecolodge’s distinctive guests, which have included Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, are a testament to its success.
The uniqueness of the location, the architecture, and the visitor experience continue to attract coverage by reputable publications, bringing international recognition to both the ecolodge, and the Oasis at large.
“The famous oasis of Siwa…cannot be said to have fallen from its high estate…only it has stood still while the world went on.” - Wilfred Jennings-Bramly, A Journey to Siwa in October-September 1896
"Oases are “islands of the blessed.” - Herodotus
“This is a place to forget about the outside world, relax and explore some truly unique surroundings.” - Sharon Otterman, New York Times, March 18, 2007
Siwa Oasis and its surroundings represent one of the most interesting and distinct regions of Egypt. Siwa possesses a unique natural environment with exceptional geological features, a diversity of flora and fauna, and some 230 natural freshwater springs fed by the Nubian aquifer.
Famed as the location of the Oracle of Amon, whom Alexander the Great consulted before continuing his Persian conquest, Siwa exists today much as it always has, boasting majestic rock formations, lush groves and brilliant salt lakes throughout the oasis. Pilgrims from all over the classical world travel to Siwa to seek the Oracle’s divine counsel, which, in its day, was as venerated as the Oracle at Delphi.
Siwa is populated by descendents of the Berbers, or Amazigh, who are distinct in their traditions, dress, tools, and language. While Siwans are able to speak Arabic, they also have maintained their own language - Siwi - in its spoken form. Siwa is considered a traditional society and has long been celebrated for its exquisitely embroidered garments and stunning silver jewelry. Widely prized around the world for its beauty and craftsmanship, many of these adornments have traditionally served important functions as ritual icons, symbols of marital status, keepers of fertility and conveyers of tradition.
Dominating the atmosphere of the town of Siwa are the magnificent jagged ruins of Shali Fortress. According to ancient Siwan scriptures, 40 Siwans built the fortress in 1203 A.D. to protect the community against raiding Bedouin tribes. They used kershef, a mixture of mud, sand and sun-dried salt harvested from the Siwa’s salt lakes and combined with palm trunks as ceilings. In the early 19th century, encouraged by the security that Egyptian viceroy Mohamed Ali Pasha bestowed on the region, residents of old Shali began moving outside these city walls. Then, in 1926 unusually heavy rains destroyed much of the ancient citadel, forcing out its remaining residents. Today, the fortress stands as a testimony to Siwan ingenuity and offers visitors a spectacular view from the upper levels of the old city.
Siwa has several magnificent salt lakes, the largest being the famous lake of Al Zaytun, which extends for more than 25 km from the mountain of Dakrur. Sheyata is another spectacularly tranquil salt lake in the desert, 35 km southwest of Siwa. Gentle sand banks lightly shaded by palm trees make an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy your afternoon.
Dining
“Quand on a bonne table on a toujours raison.” - Collin d’Harleville
“Most of the mainly organic food is grown in the grounds or sourced locally, so vegetables and fruit are bursting with flavor. Lunch is served by the pool. Dinner is somewhere different every day – one night we dined at the lone table in a grotto studded with salt crystals and candles.” - Aoife Oriordain, “Hotel of the Week”, The Independent, December 2006
Activities
This program gives you an idea of the daily flow of activities in Adrère Amellal:
Breakfast
Breakfast is served on a shaded terrace overlooking the lake. If you do not know where to head for breakfast, just listen for the sound of the cutlery and plates and it will lead you to the right place.
After Breakfast
Head towards the car park for a trip around the town of Siwa in 4x4 vehicles with a guide: you will visit Shali fortress, the tombs of Jabal el Mawta, Oracle Temple, Jabal Dakrour & Cleopatra’s bath.
Around 2:00 PM
Lunch will be served under the palm trees by our natural spring. It is a vegetarian meal, which is tradition.
In the afternoon
4x4 vehicles will take you into the Great Sand Sea; this depends of course on the mood of the desert and the duration of your stay. You will visit Lake Shiata, Bir Wahed and the Petrified Forest. And as the sun is going down you will be served mint tea. Remember to take a jacket with you, because once the sun goes down the temperature drops rapidly in the desert.
Around 8:00 PM
Return to Adrère Amellal and have a well deserved cocktail in one of the bars of the lodge.
Dinner
Dinner will be served – in a different dinner room every night – at whatever time suites you. All you need to do is let a member of staff know when you would like to have your meal. Dinner in the desert is also an option, but at an extra charge of $70 per person. It depends on the mood of the desert of course and the number of people, as well as other factors. . Please note that we only do lunches in the desert from mid November – mid March.
Additional options are swimming in the Lake by the lodge, visiting our library, climbing up the White Mountain, having a mud bath, having a massage with Siwan olive oil by a local or foreign masseuse (not included in the price).
There is also the option of riding horses in the desert at an additional cost of EURO 40 per hour per person. Please note that the horses are not in Siwa from mid-May till mid-October.
If you do ever get lost or don’t know where to go, ask any of our personnel dressed in white; they would be more than happy to assist you.
Summary of activities NOT included in the room price:
1. Dinner / Lunch in the desert: $70 per person 2. Horse riding: EURO 40 per person per hour 3. Massage: Payment is settled with the masseuse.
N.B. Upon you reservation, please clarify what you would like to do from the above mentioned activities in order for us to arrange it for you.
Press reviews
Benedict Allen, Desert Retreats, Harper’s Abroad, June 2002
At night it is so quiet that you begin to hear the stars.
Conde Nast Traveler, November 2000
Adrère Amellal desert eco lodge is a paradox in process, mingling the asceticism of a Cistercian monastery, the luxuries of a Turkish seraglio, and the whimsy of a Cape Cod sandcastle.
W. Geordie Greig, Nomad’s Land, Tatler Magazine, April 2007
This is a place with a very special, luxurious sense of the primitive, surrounded by the kind of magic that only ancient tribes, majestic mountains and ruthless desert climates can conjure.
Rooms & Accommodation
Single room
Single room
Standard rooms; each room is unique. There is not one room like another.
Adrère Amellal is host to 40 rooms all built in the traditional Siwan style , walls are made of salt-rock, and palm is used for the roofs. Every room is unique, combining distinction and authenticity. The earthen buildings blend naturally into the landscape, and all furniture and crafts pay tribute to the talented local artisanship.
Double and Triple rooms
Double and Triple rooms
Standard rooms; each room is unique. There is not one room like another.
Adrère Amellal is host to 40 rooms all built in the traditional Siwan style , walls are made of salt-rock, and palm is used for the roofs. Every room is unique, combining distinction and authenticity. The earthen buildings blend naturally into the landscape, and all furniture and crafts pay tribute to the talented local artisanship.
Junior Suite
Junior Suite
Room with salt bed and side tables and a great view of the lake.
Adrère Amellal is host to 40 rooms all built in the traditional Siwan style , walls are made of salt-rock, and palm is used for the roofs. Every room is unique, combining distinction and authenticity. The earthen buildings blend naturally into the landscape, and all furniture and crafts pay tribute to the talented local artisanship.
Executive Suite
Executive Suite
Adrère Amellal is host to 40 rooms all built in the traditional Siwan style , walls are made of salt-rock, and palm is used for the roofs. Every room is unique, combining distinction and authenticity. The earthen buildings blend naturally into the landscape, and all furniture and crafts pay tribute to the talented local artisanship.
Royal Suite
Royal Suite
The Royal Suite (or, Prince Charles Suite) is a duplex room with 2 bathrooms. Has two terraces with views. Very sunny. Large seating area.
Adrère Amellal is host to 40 rooms all built in the traditional Siwan style , walls are made of salt-rock, and palm is used for the roofs. Every room is unique, combining distinction and authenticity. The earthen buildings blend naturally into the landscape, and all furniture and crafts pay tribute to the talented local artisanship.
Our Trusted Partner's Responsible and Sustainable Travel Policy
Siwa Sustainable Development Initiative
In 1997 EQI began privately investing in Siwa through a series of community-based initiatives. The Siwa Sustainable Development Initiative is an integrated sustainable development plan that addresses economic, cultural and environmental challenges. EQI’s investments in Siwa are in the following areas: (1) Eco-lodging; (2) Traditional Artisanship; (3) Organic Agriculture and Trade; and (4) Renewable Energy. Together, these activities have established a sustainable private-sector-led development model which is socially and environmentally responsible.
1. INTRODUCTION
Siwa Oasis, located about 70km east of the Libyan border on the edge of the Qattara Depression, possesses an exceptional natural environment, a number of attractive archaeological sites and spectacular geomorphologic features. Living through the centuries in relative isolation has allowed the Siwan community to maintain their own identity and traditions. These qualities, all indicative of the potential that the oasis holds, dictate the importance of preserving its fragile eco-system, maintaining its cultural heritage and developing economic activities in a sustainable way.
In 1997 EQI began privately investing in Siwa through a series of community-based initiatives. The Siwa Sustainable Development Initiative is an integrated sustainable development plan that addresses economic, cultural and environmental challenges. EQI’s investments in Siwa are in the following areas: (1) Eco-lodging; (2) Traditional Artisanship; (3) Organic Agriculture and Trade; and (4) Renewable Energy. Together, these activities have established a sustainable private-sector-led development model which is socially and environmentally responsible.
2. ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY INTERNATIONAL
Environmental Quality International (EQI), a private firm established in 1981, operates in the Middle East and Africa providing services in Environmental and Natural Resource Management, Policy and Governance and Enterprise Development. EQI's objective is to contribute to the growth and development of the region by bringing about sustainable improvements in the living conditions of its peoples. EQI’s promoting economic and social development that respects the region’s natural assets and preserves its rich cultural heritage. More information can be found at www.eqi.com.eg.
3. SIWA SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE
3.1. Adrère Amellal: an ecolodge overlooking Lake Siwa and nestled at the foot of the Adrère Amellal1 mountain cliffs. Traditional Siwan houses were restored and expanded using the same building styles and techniques that had been used in the oasis for centuries. Ceilings are made of palm beams, while doors, windows and fixtures are made of olive wood from annual tree trimmings. Furnishings are simple, yet of the highest quality, drawing exclusively on local materials and designs.
Contemporary plumbing is used throughout. Wastewater is first settled in self-contained sedimentation tanks, allowing the supernatant to flow through perforated pipes into a sealed wetland where indigenous papyrus plants are grown to complete the biodegradation and waste reduction process. Food prepared at the lodge is organically grown and predominantly local.
1 Adrère Amellal means White Mountain in the native Siwan language.
2 Adrère Amellal attracts travelers who are looking for unique, high quality, environmentally and socially conscious accommodation, and at the same time are financially able to afford it. The uniqueness of the location, the lodge’s structure, and the visitor experience continue to attract coverage by reputable publications, bringing international recognition to the oasis and to the initiative.
3.2. Shali Lodge: On the other side of Lake Siwa lies the town of Siwa with its 13th century-old enclave, the Fortress of Shali. Shali Village Lodge is situated in the hub of activity and is only a 5-minute walking distance from the Shali Fortress. The lodge itself has become a local meeting point and is well liked by both visitors and Siwans alike. Moderately priced, the lodge offers 8 rooms and a warm and friendly atmosphere. It targets travelers that are environmentally conscious and culturally aware, yet have limited financial means in comparison to the guests at Adrère Amellal. The lodge also appeals to travelers who, regardless of cost, prefer spending their time in the center of activity. Shali Lodge has played an important role in ensuring that EQI is actively engaged and present in the village, thereby consolidating the partnership between EQI and the community.
3.3. Albabenshal: Also in Siwa Town, this is an 11-room heritage hotel, located on the periphery of Shali Fortress. The rooms were constructed out of once inhabited kershef houses that had been destroyed by unusual heavy rains. Albabenshal was created through a process of restoring and restructuring these dilapidated and abandoned homes. The lodge aims to revitalize this important area in Siwa and encourage the continued restoration of the remaining abandoned homes surrounding the Fortress.
3.4. Siwa Creations: Siwa is considered a highly conservative society, even by the standards of Egyptian society. Siwan girls have extremely limited mobility outside their homes, and married women even less so. The primary opportunity for work is in the production of handicrafts. Girls typically learn sewing, embroidery and basketwork from their mothers and grandmothers. Overtime, however, many of these local crafts have deteriorated and the pressure to produce saleable items coupled with the lack of access to good quality raw materials has resulted in the production of mediocre items that rely on artificial dyes and synthetic materials. Furthermore, most of the artisans are forced to produce their work and then wait several months until the item is sold, at which time they are able to receive payment for their work.
The Women’s Artisanship Initiative began as a community development intervention designed to increase the empowerment and economic self-sufficiency of Siwan women through the revitalization of traditional handicraft production and the promotion of a culture of artisanship. The project has focused on opening up viable business opportunities for Siwan women and enhancing their skills to ensure that their workmanship is of the highest standard.
Working with the women of the Siwan community, EQI developed a brand of artisanal products called Siwa Creations; a product line designed to incorporate traditional Siwan embroidery styles and techniques with the fashions of today. Siwa Creations products are sold in the Adrère Amellal boutique and in high-end outlets in countries throughout Europe, including Italy, France and England. The Siwan artisans also produce an exclusive line for the Florentine haute couture establishment, Ermanno Scervino.
3.5. Siwa Organic: Agriculture is the primary source of livelihood in Siwa, engaging between 70 to 80 percent of Siwan families. The oasis boasts an environment largely free of chemical fertilizers and practically untouched by herbicides and pesticides. The most important crops are olives and dates.
Siwan farmers face serious impediments in selling their crops, primarily in regards to the lack of financing made available. Informal credit schemes available to the farmers are insensitive to seasonal fluctuations in productivity and to the farmers’ lack of liquidity. This forces farmers to accept below market prices before the harvest season so that they are able to finance the harvesting of their crops. If the season proves unproductive and they are unable to deliver the crops to the trader, they are then forced to sell parts of their land. To safeguard against such risks, many of the farmers have begun using chemical fertilizers to maximize their yields. In doing so, they compromise the very assets that distinguish Siwan agricultural produce in the international marketplace.
The Sustainable Agriculture Initiative aims to stop this transition from natural to chemical. Instead it promotes the use of organic farming methods and provides Siwans with the needed capacity to improve harvesting techniques and farm management practices. EQI certifies the land organic, pre-purchases the crops at a fair market price and then sells the products to the international market.
Siwa Organic is the brand name established for Siwa’s organic products. It positions itself as a product of excellence offering organic produce originating from a unique and special destination. The product line includes olives, dates and agri-culinary products such as olive tapenade, sycamore jam, and hibiscus syrup.
3.6. Partnerships: EQI has partnered with the local community and local government authorities as well as with international development organizations such as UNCHS, UNDP, the Ford Foundation, and the British Embassy to address the special needs of the Siwan community. In addition, EQI partnered with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in 2005 to co-finance the expansion of its activities under the Siwa Initiative.
3.7. Publications: The Siwa Initiative was designed to set an example of sustainable development that would be a source of inspiration to other communities around the world. The uniqueness of the initiative has created widespread publicity among the business community, both locally and internationally.
3.8. Awards: The Siwa Sustainable Development Initiative has received international recognition from a host of prestigious awards that highlight Adrère Amellal and the Siwa Initiative as an innovative and successful example of sustainable development. These awards include: Travel and Leisure Global Vision Award in the category of Green/Eco Hotel (2006); International Chamber of Commerce and UNDP World Business Award for the Siwa Initiative (2006); Condé Naste Green List Top 5 Lodges award for Adrère Amellal (2005); Hip Hotels Orient 2005 Top 20 Hotels; and British Airways Tourism for Tomorrow Award. Adrère Amellal also received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Ministry of Tourism for “a remarkable effort in promoting tourism in Egypt” on the occasion of World Tourism Day (2004).
About our Trusted Partner
Environmental Quality International (EQI), a private firm established in 1981, operates in the Middle East and Africa providing services in Environmental and Natural Resource Management, Policy and Governance and Enterprise Development. EQI's objective is to contribute to the growth and development of the region by bringing about sustainable improvements in the living conditions of its peoples. EQI’s services are directed at promoting economic and social development that respects the region’s natural assets and preserves its rich cultural heritage.
In 1997 EQI began privately investing in Siwa through a series of community-based initiatives. The Siwa Sustainable Development Initiative is an integrated sustainable development plan that addresses economic, cultural and environmental challenges. EQI’s investments in Siwa are in the following areas: (1) Eco-lodging; (2) Traditional Artisanship; (3) Organic Agriculture and Trade; and (4) Renewable Energy. Together, these activities have established a sustainable private-sector-led development model which is socially and environmentally responsible.
Dinner in the desert : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Dinner in the desert
Bedroom terrace : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Bedroom terrace
Double room : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Double room
Adrere Amellal - Salt Lake : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Adrere Amellal - Salt Lake
Bathroom : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Bathroom
Desert safari : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Desert safari
Relaxing by the lake : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Relaxing by the lake
Double room at Adrere Amellal : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Double room at Adrere Amellal
Siwa detail : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Siwa detail
Sitting area : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Sitting area
Tea time at Adrere Amellal : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
Tea time at Adrere Amellal
Adrere Amellal architectural detail : Adrere Amellal at www.NatureandKind.com (THE.NATURAL.CHOICE)
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