An oasis of colour in the Egyptian desert

Nestled along the beige sandy banks of the River Nile is a guest house that is impossible to miss, as it explodes with colour and funky designs. The kaleidoscope-patterned Anakato Nubian Houses are the architectural equivalent of a desert oasis, with walls and decorations painted in every colour of the rainbow. The fantastical buildings are covered with hieroglyphics and shapes of animals and plants, which look like a pastel hallucination when compared to the Sahara surroundings.

Technicolour: Nestled along the beige sandy banks of the River Nile is a guest house that explodes with colour

Outdoor seating areas offer spectacular views over the river to the Aswan town opposite, with lanterns illuminating the tree-framed patio

The kaleidoscope-patterned Anakato Nubian Houses are the architectural equivalent of a desert oasis, with walls and decorations painted in every colour of the rainbow

Guests can expect an intimate stay with only 19 rooms available in the tranquil Nubian lodging, and each one is more colourful and abstract than the last

The English-speaking staff are on hand to coordinate traditional Nubian music and dancing in the evenings, or private in-room dining can be arranged for those looking for a peaceful retreat

The Nubian Houses are located around six miles from the Aswan International Airport, with a transfer service upon request

Mealtimes are said to be a traditional feasts and can be served wherever takes the fancy through the maze-like terraces and courtyards

Flexible feasting: Melas are said to be prepared freshly every day and can be taken whatever time guests request them

Although many are feeling cautious about Egypt in light of recent events, the colourful haven falls in a tourist patch along the Nile deemed safe by the Foreign Office