We last went to Sharm el Sheikh over 20 years ago but still have vivid memories of visiting a bar with cushions on ledges cut into the rocks. It was slightly precarious due to the height, but had superb views over the town. So on our recent trip, we decided to make a return visit, meeting up with our friends who were staying in the next bay.
We eventually found the entrance although it was slightly confusing as there is now a new Panorama Bar and Cafe. We walked up four flights of steps until we reached the top where the area had been improved considerably. Instead of the ledges, there was a wooden decked area with substantial white wooden tables and chairs with bright red cushions.
As well as the bar, there is also a restaurant open in the evenings.
We got sat and because our friends had their gorgeous, blonde 24 year old daughter with them, we found service was very attentive. Whilst they stuck to beer, Roy and I shared a bottle of Omar Khayyam which at 150 Egyptian Pounds (£15) was particularly reasonable as it was 240 in our hotel.
We timed our visit for 5pm so that we could see the views in daylight, dusk and dark. As the sun went down, the lights came on – as did the huge Panorama sign right behind us. As before, the views were superb. But best of all, we were the only people there. It must be one of Sharm’s best kept secrets. But beware if you visit in the heat of the day, there is no protection from the sun.