The beautiful destination 5 hours from UK that boasts 29C in October and turquoise lagoons

The Red Sea, popularised by famous winter sun destinations like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada in Egypt, is usually a go-to for winter sun seekers. Perfect weather year-round and mid-length flights further boost the ideal conditions for holidaymakers on our side of the world. Not to mention holiday packages can make things a lot easier when planning on short notice.

However, for those looking for something a little more exclusive, yet surprisingly attainable, there is a spot that’s well-known to Egyptians and kitesurfing enthusiasts, but yet to be discovered by Britons – and it's a little oasis of beauty and comfort. El Gouna, located just 30 minutes north of Hurghada, is a plush self-contained resort town that boasts a world of activities and a range of lavish hotels that cater to all types of getaway, from honeymoons to family holidays and golfing trips.

During my 5-night holiday, I was able to sample only a few of the many excursions and comforts this town has to offer, starting with a thrilling desert quad bike safari, where I visited a Bedouin encampment at sunset.

Staying at the Steigenberger Golf Resort gave me an outlook into the more mature, relaxed side of the resort, where crowds vary from families with young children to seniors golfing on the hotel’s own 18-hole championship golf course located on the other side of the lagoon.

Other parts of the town lend themselves to a more active stay, like the famed Mangroovy Beach, one of the most popular spots among kitesurfers, and the sophisticated Casa Cook Hotel, which is adjacent to a kite centre – for those who like to get up and go.

As well as stunning golden sand beaches, El Gouna is home to incredible coral reefs and wrecks, such as the famous Sha'ab El Erg and Careless Reef, which can be explored on snorkelling and diving tours.

Transfers within the town take no longer than 20 minutes, making planning a variety of activities within a day not only doable but recommended. For those seeking a truly local experience, tuk-tuks are a whimsical way to explore the town that makes spontaneous stops much easier and fun.

When it comes to dining and nightlife, Abu Tig Marina and the Downtown area are the places to be, with local shops and restaurants offering something for everyone.

At dawn, these areas come to life, becoming a hotspot for visitors looking to try different cuisines, from the top-rated African eatery Bongoyo, to Camino, a lively Latin restaurant.

I’d strongly recommend anyone going to El Gouna create their own scent to remember their holiday at Norshek, a little store selling hair and body products made with natural oils. Here, you can customise your body butter, hand wash, perfume or hair conditioner to your liking. Try oud and pomegranate for a sweet and indulgent, long-lasting mix.

For Indian food lovers, Tandoor is a must-visit, not only for its privileged location overlooking the entire marina but also for its superb fare, featuring all the classics as well as a few unique fusion dishes.

Fanadir Marina has a more upscale, quieter atmosphere and allows diners to enjoy uninterrupted views of the docked boats while enjoying a dimly lit supper or shopping for clothes.

Among the dining options, Villa Caracas is the place to go for traditional Lebanese cuisine, while the restaurant next door, Marzipan, serves authentic Egyptian fare in abundant portions that are ideal for sharing.

Another highlight of El Gouna is its proximity to Luxor, a day tour that starts with an other-worldly drive through the desert, and showcases some of the country's most spectacular landmarks, including the colossal Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings, an ancient royal burial ground from Egypt's New Kingdom.

When staying in Luxor overnight, adventurers can enjoy a hot air balloon ride at sunrise to spot many of the ancient landmarks, including the imposing mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, and the abrupt contrast between the lush, cultivated fields lining the Nile River and the surrounding desert and mountains.