Cheap Port El Kantaoui Holidays from £339pp

Why go to Port El Kantaoui

If you’ve got your heart set on a fuss-free, sun-kissed getaway that has everything you could possibly need, a Port El Kantaoui holiday will certainly put a smile on your face. This purpose-built resort doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what it is – a tourist-focused destination that every now and again reveals traces of its Arabic roots.

Expectedly, the resort has something for everyone. There’s a smattering of beaches nearby for laid-back days by the sea; there’s opportunities to get in some golf for those looking to perfect their handicap; and there’s Turkish hammams for pampering at its best.

And that’s just the start. You can snorkel close to shore or hop on a boat trip to ancient ruins. And if you’re willing to travel a little further afield, you can take a camel ride or get behind the wheel of a 4x4 in the desert. So, whether you’re holidaying as a family, a couple or as part of a group, you’ll have no problem keeping everyone entertained.

If you’re up for an excursion, Port El Kantaoui places you close to the comparatively less touristy city of Sousse. And, over an hour away by hire car, there’s El Jem, which is one for true history buffs. Visits to high-up Berber villages and long-deserted Roman baths can also be arranged – just chat to your hotel’s reception staff about the best and cheapest way to get to them.

Although not a party destination, Port El Kantaoui has enough to please both those in search of a relaxing evening and those after something a little more upbeat. The area around the marina is good for both, with a mix of family-friendly cafes, restaurants and bars.

When to go to Port El Kantaoui

In August, Port El Kantaoui promises temperatures as high as 33C with lows of 22C – unsurprisingly, this coincides with the busy season. If you’re willing to drop a few degrees, wait until September or October when you can expect temperatures between 22C and 26C (although avoid half-term, as prices tend to skyrocket).

From December to February, you’re looking at temperatures between 12C and 14C – perfect for heat-averse travellers, as well as dedicated sightseers. Steer clear of desert excursions at this time of year though, as this is where you’ll really feel the cold. And remember to pack warm clothes for the evening, even if you’re staying in the resort.

November is one of the best months to book a cheap Port El Kantaoui holiday, as temperatures can reach highs of 21C, prices are low and the atmosphere is much more relaxed.

What to do in Port El Kantaoui

As you’d expect from a purpose-built resort, Port El Kantaoui has all bases covered – if you want chill, it does chill; if you want active, it does active. Part of the magic of this sun-drenched Tunisian getaway is that it can be whatever you want it to be. So, sunbathe or snorkel, sample lablabi (chickpea soup) or hole up in your hotel room – it’s up to you.

El Kantaoui Golf Course

Whether you’re serious about golf or looking for a novel way to spend one of your afternoons in the resort, El Kantaoui Golf Course is the place to be. There are two 18-hole courses to choose from – Panorama and SEA – with excellent views and enough obstacles to challenge experienced golfers.

You don’t need to be a member to play but it’s best to book in advance. You can also hire a caddy on the day.

El Jem

History more your scene? Just an hour’s drive away from Port El Kantaoui is the town of El Jem, home to an impressive and almost-intact Roman amphitheatre. It’s spectacularly huge, so much so that it’s the largest of its kind in North Africa (and one of the biggest in the world).

Once you have surveyed the ruins, continue your journey into the past with a visit to the nearby El Jem Archaeological Museum, a 15-minute walk away from the amphitheatre.

Sousse

In contrast to the more modern Port El Kantaoui, Sousse – just 25 minutes away by car – is home to an Aghlabid-era medina. Inside the walls of this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site is an archaeological museum, 24 mosques and Souq Er Ribba.

The latter is a medieval-style bazaar that sells everything from perfume and straw bags to cheap designer clothing and prints.

Acqua Palace

The clue to this family-friendly attraction is in its name – Acqua Palace is indeed a waterpark. Suitable for children of all ages, it features a mix of laid-back and adrenaline-pumping water-based rides, from the self-explanatory Lazy River to the superfast Toboggan Kamikaze.

For parents of little ones, there’s Aqua Baby, a specially designated area with pint-sized versions of some of the attractions (such as the mini drop).

Boat trips

Take your pick from a multitude of boats waiting to take you out on the waters of Port El Kantaoui. Get on a glass-bottomed boat to spot sea creatures from the deck or strap on a snorkel and get up close and personal with the help of on-board diving experts.

Couples may consider a sunset cruise and for groups ready to dance and drink the night away, the sunset party boats will do the trick.