Tel: 20-2-2737-3737

At the southern tip of Gezirah Island, the Sofitel El Gezirah, a revamped French luxury hotel, has an airy oasis that offers some unique signature treatments, including a massage of choreographed stroking with cool and warm seashells ($127). All bodywork starts with a foot scrub using peppermint-scented Egyptian sea salt, which is followed by a full-body soak in the indoor relaxation pool, with two underwater jet beds and an infinity edge facing a two-story arched window to the Nile. Eight treatment rooms, including two for couples, have Nile views, Bose iPod docks, and scented candles; some also have private whirlpools or freestanding bathtubs. A few hours here, in the art book–filled solarium, and on the private sun deck provides rejuvenation after a long day's sightseeing (massages, $127).