Mangroovy Serinity 2br pool view

Hotel Description

You know what’s funny about El Gouna? Everyone talks about the fancy resorts, but honestly, Mangroovy Serinity is where you actually want to stay if you’re looking for that sweet spot between comfort and not breaking the bank. I mean, it’s technically a 3-star place, but the pool view from these 2-bedroom units hits different – especially when you’re sipping your morning coffee and watching the sun creep over the Red Sea mountains in the distance.

The thing about Mangroovy is that it sits right in the heart of El Gouna’s residential area, which means you’re living like locals do (well, the well-off locals anyway). You’re maybe a 10-minute walk from Abu Tig Marina where all the restaurants and nightlife happen, but far enough away that you’re not dealing with the party noise at 2 AM. Actually, the whole complex has this laid-back vibe that reminds me why people fall in love with El Gouna in the first place – it’s got that Mediterranean resort feel but without the pretension. The apartments themselves are pretty spacious, and look, the furniture isn’t going to win any design awards, but everything works and it’s clean. The pool area is where this place really shines though – there’s always a breeze coming off the lagoons, and the water’s warm enough that you’ll find yourself floating around at sunset more often than you planned.

What I really appreciate is how the staff actually remembers your name after a couple days, and they’ll hook you up with local knowledge that guidebooks miss. Like, they’ll tell you which kiosks have the coldest Stella beers or when the fish market gets its fresh catch (Tuesday mornings, by the way). The location means you can easily grab a taxi or walk to Downtown El Gouna when you want to explore, but honestly, some of my best days were just spent bouncing between the pool and the little café around the corner that makes killer koshari. Sure, it’s not the Ritz – the WiFi can be spotty during peak hours and sometimes the hot water takes a minute to kick in – but there’s something genuine about staying here that you miss at the bigger resorts. Plus, having two bedrooms means you can actually spread out, which is clutch if you’re staying more than a few days or traveling with family.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $123. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 double beds for Max persons: 3

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities