Red Sea Coast

Isolated outposts, the monasteries of St. Paul and St. Anthony lie 30km apart (82km by road) near the edge of the Red Sea. These centers of faith, dating from the beginning of the Christian monastic tradition, are the residences of monks who live in a austere style that differs remarkably little from that of 16 centuries ago.

You had better be serious about it if you want to reach these monasteries. Direct access is limited to private cars and tour buses from Cairo. The Cairo-Hurghada bus makes a stop at Ras Za’farna on the Red Sea, about 33km east of the turn-off to St. Anthony’s on the road from Ras Za’farna west to Beni Suef. St. Paul’s Monastery is tucked in the mountains 12km inland from the coastal road, about a 156-hour drive from St. Anthony’s. Don’t count on catching a ride with a passing brother. Instead, a group of seven can hire a taxi from Suez or Hurghada. If you can negotiate with the taxi driver directly, expect to pay LEI 10 for both monasteries. Travel agencies can arrange the trip starting at LE180.