Baron Palms Resort Sharm El Sheikh

The Baron Palms Resort Sharm El Sheikh is a blend of Andalusian-style architecture and plenty of Moorish touches including colorful geometric tiling and elegant whitewashed archways. The lobby is particularly North African in style with attractive lattice plasterwork, traditional hanging lanterns, and plush velvet furnishings reminiscent of an Arabian palace. One of four properties that belongs to the independent Baron chain, this resort opened in 1999 as an adult-only resort, which means the vibe is more grown-up and sophisticated than at similar properties nearby. Although the grounds are not extensive, they are well-tended with manicured lawns, plenty of tropical plants, and numerous palm trees (over 150). The resort is not situated right on the beach, however, but a short walk along the Baron Boulevard leads to a half-mile long private beach and floating jetty that extends into the Red Sea and its gorgeous coral reefs.

The resort is located on the southern end of the Sinai Peninsula overlooking the Straits of Tiran Island and part of the popular Sharm El Sheikh tourist destination. The hotel is sandwiched between two other resorts (one being its sister property -- Hotel Baron Resort Sharm El Sheikh) and surrounded by desert landscape; there's nothing within walking distance besides the beach. The central tourist hub of Sharm El Sheikh, Naama Bay, is full of restaurants, bars, and buzzing nightlife and about 20 minutes away by car. The hotel is one of the closer ones to Sharm El Sheikh International Airport at under a 15-minute drive.

The hotel's 230 air-conditioned rooms are decorated with a few authentic, charming touches, such as carved wooden furnishings, arched arabesque moldings framing the beds, and small patterned rugs. White duvets and contrasting striped runners are modern, but certain elements, like the patterned curtains, were missed in the last renovation and look dated. Though the spaces are clean and upscale, the decor is a touch bland for an advertised five-star resort. Beige tile floors extend through sliding glass doors to balconies furnished with wicker seating that overlook the pool or gardens (though not the sea). Minibars are replenished daily, as are the tea and coffee, while flat-screen TVs have over 40 international channels, though in-room Wi-Fi incurs an added charge. Egyptian cotton bed linen and bathrobes add a luxury feel, while bathrooms have walk-in showers, wall-mounted hairdryers, and bidets. 

The hotel's main restaurant, Tiran World Class Cuisine, doesn't quite fulfill its name but does provide a decent and extensive buffet service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while also offering themed nights. There are also two a la carte restaurants, various bars -- one of which is set on the beach -- and an oriental-style cafe offering shisha pipes. The attractive central swimming pool is split in two parts and includes waterfall features, hot tubs, and larger-than-normal padded loungers with poolside drink service.

The hotel's private beach (a short walk from the property) is a particularly attractive stretch that provides plenty of parasols and loungers, as well as a floating jetty out to the coral for snorkeling. There's also a PADI-certified dive shop for those wanting to scuba farther out. While massages can be enjoyed on the beach, there's also a health center with treatment rooms, sauna, and fitness room. Plenty of shopping can be found on-site, including jewelry, perfume, and souvenirs, and some live entertainment is provided, though this resort leans more toward peace and quiet than activity programs.

The all-inclusive plan includes buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main restaurant, as well as an a la carte menu by the pool and in the Egyptian restaurant. Unlimited local alcoholic drinks and a range of soft drinks are included around the clock (the Now and Zen Dance Bar is open until 2 a.m., and the lobby bar is open all night), though premium spirits, imported wines, and minibar items are charged. Snacks and ice cream are also available free of charge throughout the day, as are non-motorized water sports such as snorkeling, pedalos, and kayaking.