Anyone who wants to lay on a beautiful beach but also to feast upon historic gems on their days off sun-worshipping should have their sights set firmly on Malta. Come to the capital of Valletta and be at the center of the action in this stunning antique city; a very fitting place to stay is Palazzo Consiglia; a stunningly restored building where Baroque influence sits with Roman and Arabic features.
Location
Often described as the best-kept secret of the Mediterranean, Malta is jammed with history, partly because its fascinating past features the Phoenicians, Romans, Normans, Knights of St. John, French, and British. The capital, Valletta, is steeped in history, culture, style, art, and technology and is both a UNESCO world heritage site and has also been nominated for a European Capital of Culture for 2018. The hotel is located in the very heart of Valletta, a very short 15-minute drive from the airport, and just a few meters away from St Rocco’s Church and key attractions such as the Lower Barrakka Gardens, Valletta Waterfront and Fort Saint Elmo.
Style & Character
The hotel is located in a beautiful traditional Maltese townhouse. As soon as guests enter, they find themselves in a lavish entrance hall with marble floors, wall paneling, and pretty teal hues throughout. The chic guest rooms are light and airy with rich oak hardwood floors, glass separations in bathrooms, and dramatic, almost personal flairs, which create a very stylish room. Typical in Maltese townhouses, there is an internal courtyard; Palazzo Consiglia’s is a heavenly space, perfect for relaxing with a book or enjoying a hearty breakfast.
Despite the history, this is very much a modern hotel, and technology features heavily; expect soundproofed walls and floors, energy-efficient LED lighting, full HD 40-inch television with radio and 72 channels, Bluetooth speakers (which connect to the room’s sound system that’s also available in the bathroom) and USB charging ports next to the bed; all fabulous for a gadget-lover!
Service & Facilities
A total delight of a spa awaits you in the cellar beneath the townhouse; the Cantina is a top-quality wellness area where you feel like you’re in a secret, very-glamourous grotto; very exciting but also very relaxing. Don’t miss the spa treatments, but also ensure you leave time to waste away several hours in the heated indoor pool, jacuzzi, and steam room.
The cozy roof terrace is another beautiful space to relax (Palazzo Consiglia does them well, as you can tell!). There’s a mini pool, a reading nook, and a winter sundeck, plus simply spectacular views across Valletta and the Grand Harbour.
The staff are lovely, friendly, and helpful. It’s clear that they take pride in their work and their hotel. There’s also a full concierge service that can be accessed from each room.
Rooms
This is a boutique hotel with 13 rooms, which are individually named and individually designed with custom wallpaper, upholstery, and headboards, as well as stunning furniture sourced from Italy, France, and Malta. Depending on your taste, stay in a room with an Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Classical or Baroque vibe. Some of the rooms have balconies, so be sure to request one of these if you like your people-watching. My personal favorite is probably Sirena, an enchanting and glamorous room with a separate living area and a balcony overlooking the street below.
Food & Drink
Ursula’s Lounge serves up a scrumptious continental breakfast, which you can eat in the courtyard or on the roof terrace if you prefer. There’s also a tempting selection of cheese and meat platters, as well as pizzas and other hot snacks, available until late, perfect to accompany a refreshing beverage at the terrace bar. For fine dining, there are several restaurants within walking distance, ask for recommendations, and they’ll be more than happy to oblige.
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