Albabenshal

I spent three nights at this hotel, and was satisfied with it in most ways. The style and layout of the building gave the impression of an authentic village house, and it was situated right in the town centre There was a good supply of hot water in my room, there were plenty of nice towels and the breakfast was excellent. I had one meal there consisting of rice and a vegetable stew, which was nicely cooked and presented. The staff did everything they could to make things comfortable, and to give helpful advice. However, in the month of February (wrong timing on my part) nothing could compensate for the lack of central heating in any part of the building. In my room the two small windows had solid shutters and no glass. If you wanted daylight in the room, by opening the shutters you let in even more cold air, and dust. All this, I was told, is part of the eco-friendly and authentic style typical of tourist hotels in Siwa. The kindly manager lit a fire in the restaurant area in the evening, to provide some warmth for the guests. I would happily go back to this hotel, but at a warmer time of the year.

I stayed at the Albabenshal for about one week and I am a solo female traveler. The location is in the middle of the town and connected to the Shali fort, one most interesting architecture sites in Egypt. The view is absolutely priceless. Everything is in walking distance. The staff spoke great english and was extremely accommodating. Breakfast was simple, but tasty. They even make there own jam! Every meal I ate at there restaurant was hot and delicious. The hotel itself is visually stimulating, stylish and very organic. My room was the perfect size and decorated with local salt lamps and heavy woolen blankets which you can only find in Siwa. The local people were very friendly and interesting to watch. My favorite part of my stay was soaking in the hot springs and long bike rides around town.I felt extremely safe in the hotel and in the town. I would highly recommend this hotel, the staff really takes care of you. The Albabenshal is a very special place.

War als alleinreisende Frau in Siwa und fühlte mich dort gut beraten. Die angebotenen Jeep-Touren sind allerdings rasant aber es war kein Problem beschaulichere und günstigere Touren im Palm Tree Hotel ein paar Meter entfernt zu buchen. Das Hotel liegt mitten in dem Städtchen und hat kostenloses Wifi. Frühstück ist sehr gut und im Winter brennt immer ein Feuer abends.

I spent 4 days there, it was very peaceful and relaxing.

The design, location and ambiance of the hotel are unbeatable. it is literally an integral part of the Shali Old Town. Awesome views from some of the rooms and from the rooftop restaurant. Service unobtrusive and laid back - but extremely friendly and there if you need it. Room design minimalist and authentic - all stone and woodwork - cool in both senses of the word. not sure if the ceiling fan would be enough in mid-summer, but in mid-May it was fine. Breakfast more than adequate. Only criticism would be lack of fridge in the room. Definitely come again and recommend to anyone.

We booked albabenshal for 2 nights, extended it to 6, then extended again to 11. that should say it all!!!! Fabulous place to stay. The staff are so helpful and polite, and the manager can arrange anything you want, including desert sunset tours, donkey carts to the local sights and even a car and driver back to Cairo, as we couldnt face the long bus ride again. The breakfast is to die for, probably even better than many buffet breakfasts at 5 star places, all except the marriott hehe. No really, I cant speak highly enough of this hotel. Do yourself a favour, go to Siwa and relax. I'm a writer, and was able to gather my thoughts and put them on paper without a problem here. Sunsets from the rooftop resturant were sublime.