Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa

With its weathered sandstone facade, neoclassical columns, and balustrade balconies overlooking manicured gardens with numerous trickling fountains, the Corinthia Palace immediately feels distinguished. Stepping inside a polished and immaculately presented lobby leaves little doubt as to the hotel's pedigree, with gray marble floors, antique-style seating, and aptly Corinthian touches creating a formal, high-end ambience. Once a grand, private villa dating from the 19th century (in which famous Maltese thinker and author Edward de Bono grew up), it was bought by the Pisani family in the early '60s who turned it into a restaurant, and then later extended it to the first hotel in the Corinthia chain. The large Y-shaped property is surrounded by gardens neatly arranged with sculpted foliage, tropical plants, and bright flower beds that create the feel of a stately home. Around the pool, the mood is laid-back and relaxing, appealing to the British vacationing couples who make up the majority of the clientele; while families with kids are welcomed, noisy children jar with the overriding air of calm.

The hotel is certainly located in one of the less-touristy areas of Malta, in a quiet, upmarket, and largely residential neighborhood positioned right in the center of the island. There's not much in the way of dining or bars in the immediate surrounds, though the San Anton Palace and its lovely public gardens, hedge maze, and peacocks are just opposite. The nearest beaches are a good 15-minute drive away, and the capital Valletta is around the same distance. The hotel does provide a free shuttle service to Valletta, as well as an evening shuttle to St Julian’s for restaurants and nightlife. Malta International Airport is 15 to 20 minutes away by road. 

Decor in the hotel's 152 rooms and suites follow the same old-fashioned design found in public areas, featuring a similar format of coordinating patterned carpets and bedspreads, traditional wood furniture, and brass accents. While comfortable and fairly spacious -- starting at 322 square feet (30 square meters) and doubling that in suites -- some of the interiors could use an update and are not quite as polished as one might expect from luxury-level lodgings. All open to furnished balconies or terraces -- most overlooking the gardens, though some have poor or hindered views. An array of amenities include HD TVs (with over 75 channels and movies on demand), minibars (free for higher-category rooms), and coffee- and tea-making facilities; in-room Wi-Fi is free of charge and particularly fast. Bathrooms are clean, if a little dated, equipped with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hose hairdryers, and quality ESPA toiletries.

Breakfast stands out as a particular highlight with guests, who seem particularly impressed with the pancake machine and real honeycomb, together with the variety and quality of food in general. Other dining options are also decent, with several restaurants that include fine-dining Mediterranean, an excellent pan-Asian eatery, and an outdoor Summer Kitchen serving homemade pizza. 

Leisure and relaxation facilities are also rather good, starting with the large split-level swimming pool surrounded by plentiful loungers, a small circular splash pool, and a heated indoor pool with whirlpool tub. The Athenaeum Spa offers a secluded outdoor garden with dipping pool, plus sauna, steam room, and dozens of different massage and body treatments. There are also a fitness room and flood-lit tennis court, though no activities program or child-focused facilities.