Hilton Malta

Thanks to the completion of 15 million euro renovations in 2016, the property has been updated inside and out. As well as being one of the nicest hotels on the island, the Hilton Malta is also one of the biggest. Arriving at its understated entrance, sandstone brick walls and simple blocky architecture give the impressions of a north African fortress. The formidable property stretches along its own promontory with tiers of arched facades that cascade down toward the water. Inside, there's no mistaking the hotel's upscale pedigree. The spacious lobby is finished with swathes of polished marble scattered with chic contemporary-design furniture. The lobby is also dominated by a large, modern bar that extends to an outdoor terrace overlooking the hotel's huge pool. Ground floor corridors feature classical checked marble flooring and carved stone. Upper hallways soften to a Mediterranean theme with blue carpets and walls. 

Stretches of sun terrace are lined with mature palms and manicured shrubbery, and there's a footpath bridge that connects to even more of the resort, overlooking the rugged coastline and sea beyond. The impressive scope of facilities attract clientele of all kinds, from business travelers to honeymooners and families with kids -- largely British and well-heeled. 

The hotel is part of St. Julian's luxury Portomaso complex that overlooks the yacht marina in the buzzing Paceville district, known for its lively nightlife and vibrant dining scene. Just opposite the hotel is the soaring Portomaso Business Tower -- the tallest building in Malta -- and there's no shortage of restaurants, bars, nightclubs (and strip joints) in the surrounding area. St. George’s Bay, the only sandy public beach around, is a brisk 10-minute walk away from the hotel. Valletta, Malta's historic capital, is a 20-minute drive. The ferry terminal connects in Sliema, a 10-minute drive away. Malta International Airport is also about 20 minutes by road.

The hotel has an impressive 410 guest rooms and suites, all of which were updated in 2016 with swish contemporary styling that combines airy white and cool blue tones with modern design furniture and decorative patterned artwork. Only the terra-cotta tile floors give away the previous dated look. All rooms open to spacious balconies or terraces overlooking the garden or pool area, marina, or sea. Suites and upgraded rooms tend to be higher for better views. 

Standard amenities include 40-inch flat-screen TVs (with a good selection of English-speaking channels), well-stocked (though expensive) minibars, and coffee- and tea-making facilities that even include teapots. Upgraded rooms and suites add fluffy robes and slippers. Wi-Fi is free of charge for those who sign-up for Hilton's free loyalty program, and the connection is speedy enough for video streaming. Bathrooms are clean and modern with shower/tub combos, full-strength hairdryers, and Peter Thomas Roth toiletries. Some suites have freestanding bathtubs and spacious walk-in showers.

It's fair to say facilities at the Hilton Malta are both impressive and comprehensive. Dining options start with the Oceana Restaurant, where the buffet breakfast is a veritable feast -- with a cooked-to-order egg station -- though it's not included as standard. Breakfast lines have been reported. A la carte lunch and dinner can be served indoors or on the poolside terrace. The open-air Merkanti Beach Club is also open all day for light meals. The dinner favorite is the Blue Elephant, decorated like a Thai village. Three bars are also on offer, including one that faces the sea.

There are a total of five pools: a huge main freeform pool, an adult-only relaxation pool, two pools for the kids, and an atmospheric heated indoor pool. The hotel's Myoka 5 Senses Spa is enormous, with 10 themed treatment rooms offering over 80 treatments, plus sauna and steam rooms, gym, tennis courts, squash courts, and a full aerobics program. Families are well catered for, with a babysitting service (for fee) and a free kids' club over the summer months for ages six to 12 years; there's also a playground and small artificial beach. The hotel features a large business center with an auditorium and multiple meeting rooms, plus free underground parking. Free Wi-Fi is available with Hilton's free loyalty program.