Harmony Makadi Bay Hotel & Resort

Standing on 500 metres of private beach on Egypt’s Red Sea coast, the Harmony Makadi Bay Hotel and Resort near Hurghada is like a dream come true for water babies. As well as the beach, where you can participate in a good range of water sports, there are two fabulous interconnecting pools in lovely landscaped grounds – and set in the middle of one of them is the ultimate pool bar, the perfect spot for a cool refreshing drink. Add to this the temptations of a spa, with its own Jacuzzi, sauna and fitness room and you start to feel distinctly spoilt.

Turning to the question of eating and drinking, the Harmony Makadi Bay has three restaurants – one buffet and two a la carte – and five bars, so it’s easy to ring the changes. This is a modern hotel and the accommodation reflects this with contemporary styling, air conditioning, satellite TVs, minibars, wireless internet connections and either a balcony or a terrace. Hughada is 30 kilometres away but there are plenty of restaurants, bars and shops within easy reach, and this makes the perfect base for a diving holiday.