Hidden and historic Malta In a charming hotel with a private guide

Malta is a bit like a character in a detective story. It’s right there, in plain sight in the middle of the Mediterranean, with its emblem from the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, and yet nobody notices it. At least, not always. And not necessarily for what it is. A stunning island, that is more baroque than medieval, and utterly charming. It’s full of tightly-packed hidden corners, light and shadow filled alleyways, intimate squares and large monuments, beaches and orchards. And then there are those white limestone cliffs everywhere, shaped by erosion, carved our for building, and turned gold by the sun. They will start to feel like your friends. It’s not a good idea go to Malta alone, which doesn't feel right; nor in a group, which feels like too much. It's perfect for couples. In fact, your hotel in Mdina is designed for just that, quietly enjoying the pleasure of being there together. Three days is long enough to enjoy the island and the tranquillity. But you still won’t want to leave.

Your accommodation in the city

A very special hotel in the old city of Mdina. Walk up the cobbled alleyways and emerge onto a small square lined with palm trees. Behind a hidden door lies your hotel. The beautiful 17th-century palazzo with an elegant classical decor is part of the Relais & Châteaux chain. With fewer than twenty rooms, it is furnished with impeccable taste and has luxurious amenities. It also features French toile fabrics, sumptuous bedding and large windows. It's not showy in any way. This is a European kind of luxury, defined by balance and harmony, with the added bonus of the bright Mediterranean light. In the paved courtyard, there are places to relax, along with the tables and chairs of the restaurant’s terrace. This is one of the most highly rated restaurants in the island. Dishes include snail stew with fennel seeds, foie gras terrine, fish of the day cooked to your liking. And to top it off there’s that view of the valley and the olive groves gently sloping down towards the sea.

Scheduled

Keen to show you the island's wonders and to make your stay as easy as possible, we have arranged tours of Mdina and Valletta with a private guide. Within its ramparts Mdina is a remarkable blend of medieval and Baroque buildings. In the neighbouring town of Rabat, the catacombs of Saint Paul and Saint Agatha are a moving experience. In Valletta, discover the magnificent St John’s Co-Cathedral (16th century), which is home to Caravaggio’s "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist" (1608). Explore the Upper Barrakka Gardens, where pines, oleanders, hibiscus and pistachio trees grow, with sweeping panoramic views over the Grand Harbour. Visit the Grand Master’s Palace (16th century), seat of Malta’s first constitutional parliament and the Office of the President of Malta and Casa Rocca Piccola, a splendid example of a Maltese palace (16th century).