Malta
Malta is a unique and rich island despite its small size: with such a concentration of history, architecture and stunning coastlines, it has earned its reputation as an 'open air museum'. There's a church to admire for every day of the year and almost just as many days of sunshine, making it a great holiday destination, whatever the season. The island still upholds its religious roots with 98% of the population being Catholic; you will constantly find references to the Knights of St John and St Paul who brought Christianity to the country on a voyage to Rome. Due to Malta's 7,000-year-old past, the island is laced with the remains of megalithic temples from a bygone era and bewitching architecture from the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Romans and the Byzantines, who all left their own distinctive marks on the country. Malta's traditional honey-coloured stone buildings and the intense blue Mediterranean Sea provide the perfect backdrop for romantic harbour strolls; you can sample the ocean's offerings in Marsaxlokk, Malta's sleepy fishing village; amble down the undiscovered back streets of Vittoriosa; relish the hidden architectural gems protected by the ancient walls of Mdina or pick up the pace in Malta's cultural capital,Valletta, in the day and head to the lively Paceville at night. During the summer you can enjoy the village festas and experience the Maltese passion for fireworks and in its mild winter months, Christmas in Malta is something to behold: the Maltese specialise in spectacular nativity scenes and celebrate the festive season in style. Hire a car to get the best out of your stay, so you can explore the island to your heart's content or even take a day trip to the tranquil islands of Gozo and Comino. As for finding a place to rest your head after all that exploration, Malta is beginning to catch up with the rest of Europe by recognising the need for updated boutique accommodation. Ten years ago it would have only been the familiar hotel brands offering somewhat generic 'luxury' accommodation, but now there are a few hidden gems amongst the largely dominant hotel giants of the island.
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Phoenicia Hotel
Valletta, Malta
The grand dame of the Maltese hotels still upholds its 1930s glamour and good looks. Art Deco in style with marbles, arched glass windows, 30s cocktail bar, and even a ballroom. Harbour views and fantastic gardens. Go back in time on a cultural adventure to the glamour of a bygone era.
136 rooms from $204Exclusive offer - Save up to 15%On the beach - In front of the hotel.Swimming Pool - Indoor/outdoorSights nearby - Well located for major sights.Recommended by - Travel Intelligence -
The Xara Palace
Mdina, Malta
Uncompromising luxury with all the individuality and sophistication of a Relais Chateaux property. Interiors with splendour - high ceilings, antiques, rugs, lots of natural light. Gorgeous rooms and award-winning rooftop restaurant. A palace of romance.
17 rooms from $295Exclusive offer - 4 Night PackageCity StyleSwimming Pool - Indoor/outdoorSights nearby - Well located for major sights.5* Luxury - Very high service standards. -
Valletta Suites
Valletta, Malta
A haven for the design conscious: modern designer luxury meets historic charm in these apartment suites and unassuming townhouse. Traditional brickwork, balconies, high ceilings, sun trap terrace, picture perfect rooms. Delightful.
3 rooms from $118Romantic - Good for couples.Seaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday.On the beach - In front of the hotel.Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
Selmunett
Naxxar, Malta
A relaxing and authentic way to experience Malta with truly welcoming hosts at this charming Homestay. Just two rooms with lots of natural light, barbecued breakfasts on the terrace, and delightful herb garden. A warm and friendly spot.
2 rooms from $131Exclusive offer - Free nightsSailing - Can be booked nearby.On the beach - In front of the hotel.Surfing - Suitable beaches nearby.Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
Hotel Juliani
St Julian's, Malta
The island's first true 'boutique' hotel with an award-winning restaurant and enviable sea views. Rooms with refreshingly crisp contemporary designs in whites and turquoise blues. It's outstanding location in St. Julian's, unique charm, and fantastic restaurant give it the edge.
44 rooms from $92Exclusive offer - Added extrasBeach LifeRomantic - Good for couples.Lively - Hip and happening.Seaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday. -
Palazzo Vittoriosa
Birgu, Malta
The place to watch: this luxury 5* B&B will have everything your heart desires. Formerly a 16th century palace, but you can still live like a king here - enormous beds, Egyptian cottons, in-room jacuzzis, wine cellar, pool terrace. Exclusive use in the lap of luxury.
4 rooms from $373All inclusiveRomantic - Good for couples.Outstanding locationSeaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday. -
Osborne Hotel
Valletta, Malta
A perfect base to explore the cultural offerings of Valletta. Bright clean rooms, roof top terrace with swimming pool, harbour views, and buffet dining. The perfect city bolt-hole.
63 rooms from $138Lively - Hip and happening.Seaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday.On the beach - In front of the hotel.Swimming Pool - Indoor/outdoor -
Asti Guesthouse
Valletta, Malta
A kitsch and traditional guesthouse in the heart of the city - great value for money. Friendly service and basic breakfasts. Family rooms available too. A beach holiday on a budget.
8 rooms from $26Less £Sights nearby - Well located for major sights.Seaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday. -
The Palace
Sliema, Malta
Cosmopolitan sanctuary with a difference in the urban heart of Sliema. Unique concept suites in ultra contemporary design - minimalism, chromes, stones, marbles, ochres, state-of-the-art sound systems. Fantastic spa and rooftop nightlife. A masterpiece in modern lifestyle.
161 rooms from $100Exclusive offer - Advance booking - save 20%Lively - Hip and happening.Swimming Pool - Indoor/outdoorOn the beach - In front of the hotel.Sights nearby - Well located for major sights.Recommended by - Kiwi Collection -
Knights in Malta
Naxxar, Malta
Mediterranean elegance and calm in a historic property at a small price. Private courtyard, delightful sun terrace, jacuzzi, and beautiful rooms that exude traditional elegance. A fabulous country escape with oodles of rustic goodness and relaxation.
5 rooms from $63Romantic - Good for couples.SpaSights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
Victoria Hotel
Sliema, Malta
Malta’s equivalent to a Pall Mall gentleman’s club set in the 19th century. Traditional elegance - grand pianos, open fireplaces, leather chairs, gilded mirrors, mahogany furniture, and antique paintings. A luxurious spa and leisurely restaurant. For business and pleasure.
150 rooms from $107Special Offer - Luxury spa breakLively - Hip and happening.Seaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday.On the beach - In front of the hotel. -
Castille Hotel
Malta
A historically-rich and friendly hotel with an unbeatable central location. Fantastic pizzeria in the wine cellar and lovely roof terrace restaurant with views of the harbour. A perfect spot to explore the sites from.
38 rooms from $59Romantic - Good for couples.Views - Great views from hotelGreat walks - Good for walkers.Sights nearby - Well located for major sights.
Charlotte Luxford,
posted Monday, 25th July 2011
