These gardens used to be the grounds of a royal palace and a hunting lodge built in the late 19th century during the reign of Khedive Abbas Hilmy. Though they are attractively laid out and there's a beach that can be used for a small fee, I'm not sure that the gardens are worth a visit on their own merit. In the summer, they're crowded with local youth and in the winter they're chilly and bleak. However, they are a lovely setting for the El-Salamlek Palace Hotel, which is a great place for a quiet lunch or a couple of days' stay. There's an admission to the gardens, which is waived if you're staying at either the Helnan or the Salamlek hotels. Avoid the McDonald's in the garden unless you're truly desperate.