Article by Judi Cohen (Traveling Judi), photography by Judi and The Phoenicia Malta
Our recent stay at The Phoenicia Malta was nothing short of extraordinary. Nestled near Valletta’s UNESCO-listed core, the hotel’s location offers the best of both worlds: immediate access to Malta’s historic capital, and luxury exclusive accommodations. The building retains its original Art Deco design and a quiet reverence to its past.
A Storied Beginning
The Phoenicia Malta is a gem, steeped in history, that was Malta’s first five-star hotel opening in 1947. The hotel project was led by Lady Margaret Strickland and designed in elegant Art Deco style using Maltese limestone on the bastion walls outside Valletta.
Among the most celebrated guests were Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, who frequently stayed at the Phoenicia between 1949 and 1951, while he was posted in Malta. The young couple often danced in the Grand Ballroom. Queen Elizabeth’s signature remains in the lobby guestbook.
The hotel has also hosted numerous actors including, Alec Guinness, Oliver Reed, Gérard Depardieu, Joaquin Phoenix (during Gladiator), Helen Mirren, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Rooms & Views
Our Executive Balcony Room (approximately 23 square meters) was elegant with a private balcony with a sweeping view of the harbor with cruise ships glistening in the sun. The decor with muted blues and whites, and a well-designed marble bathroom, Aqua di Parma amenities and complimentary coffee and mini bar stocked with non-alcoholic drinks was luxurious, quiet and comfortable.
The hotel has a total of 132 rooms and suites, many with lovely balconies and dramatic views of the water and the historic city of Valletta.
Dining
Breakfast outdoors at the Contessa Conservatory was a delight with our server bringing hot cappuccino within minutes of being seated. The extensive buffet was beautifully displayed with a selection of freshly baked pastries, local cheeses, smoked fish, made-to-order omelets, and some Maltese dishes. Eggs and other options could be selected from the a la carte menu as well.
A highlight of our stay was an unforgettable dinner at Contessa, the flagship restaurant. Seasonal Mediterranean fare like prawn crudo with Gozo olive oil, fritto misto, or seafood platters as well as steaks were on the menu. The curated wine list included local Maltese varietals.
We were hosted at dinner by The Phoenicia’s Director of Sales and Marketing, Andrew Strickland, who went above and beyond in making us feel welcome. Andrew’s family members included the builders of the hotel, and he is the third generation working as a hotelier at the Phoenicia Malta. Following dinner, Andrew invited us to join him at the Malta Fashion Week event held directly in front of the hotel. Seated for the fashion show, with Valletta’s walls lit up behind us, was an experience we won’t soon forget.
Pool & Gardens
Our time at the Bastion infinity pool sipping cold drinks and soaking in the magnificent views of the ancient fortification and surrounding Maltese landscapes was magical. The seven-acre gardens provided an oasis of lush greenery, a welcome escape from the crowds in Valletta’s busy, narrow streets.
Spa & Wellness
The Phoenicia Spa & Wellness Facility includes a heated indoor pool, gym, steam, sauna and salt rooms, multi-jet showers, and spa treatment rooms with preserved 16th-century walls visible from the windows. I indulged in a 50-minute Himalayan Salt Stone massage, a restorative treat. that left me feeling completely relaxed and renewed after a long day of touring.
Why Stay at The Phoenicia Malta
Choosing the Phoenicia is stepping into living history while enjoying all the comforts of modern luxury. Its proximity to Valletta’s UNESCO-designated core, and just a 20-minute ride from the airport makes it a perfect base for exploring Malta. The property’s timeless Art Deco elegance, storied guest list, award-winning dining, spa sanctuary and iconic pool, and the exemplary service, left me longing for another few days to steep in all that the hotel offered.
I am already planning a longer stay at the Phoenicia Malta on my next visit!