A large, private mixed-use development is to be built on the Egyptian coast in the Red Sea destination of El Gouna.

Called Ancient Sands, the residential and golf resort will offer a large spa treatment and fitness centre as well as swimming pools, an estate house, restaurants and bars.

The spa will be focused on ancient Egyptian traditions of balance and harmony and has been designed around an open light well, which is intended to bring natural light into the facility and will be complemented by stone walls.

A range of Egyptian-themed treatments will be offered, including massages, body wraps and hydrotherapy. There will also be steamrooms and a whirlpool as well as a fitness area with resistance, CV and core stability equipment.

Located very near to the coastline and marina, Ancient Sands will be built by a subsidiary of the Swiss-based company Orascom Development Holding in conjunction with IFB Resort Developers.

The first phase of properties will open in December 2011. Details: ancientsands.com