Salini Resort

Formerly the Coastline Hotel, a 15 million pound renovation totally transformed this '60s-era property into the upscale property it is today. It reopened in 2015 as the Salini Resort, with added features and a smart, contemporary finish throughout. The reception area is a bright, airy space combining warm wood with polished Maltese stone, and off it lies a cozy lobby lounge with comfy seating and patterned rugs. A sophisticated and 21st-century feel continues through the hotel's hallways and public areas, including two spacious sun terraces dotted with palm trees and offering expansive views over the bay. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, with clientele tending toward a mix of older couples and families with kids. 

Salini Resort is positioned on a hillside overlooking the coastal highway and Salini Bay on the northeastern side of Malta. It is very much a stand-alone property, with nothing in walking distance and the surroundings composed largely of fields and wasteland that can feel a little isolated. Some guests complain of the faint whiff of sulfur from the nearby salt farm. A free shuttle bus service is available to the lively resorts of Bugibba (around 10-minute drive) and St Julian's (around 20 minutes), while guests with their own transport can find a pleasant stretch of sand 15 minutes' drive away at Golden Bay. Family-friendly fun can be found 10 minutes' drive at the Splash and Fun Water Park, while the medieval city of Mdina is 15 minutes by car. The island's historic capital Valletta and Malta International Airport are around half an hour's drive. 

The hotel has 237 rooms, all finished in smart styling with muted tones, tiled floors, and simple modern furnishings. Decorate accents include teal bed runners and throw pillows with a tree branch motif, and black-and-white photos of flowers above the beds. Starting at 345 square feet (32 square meters), rooms are spacious and airy, while Executive Suites are almost double the size. All rooms extend to balconies, around half with fairly uninspiring land views and the others offering great views over the bay or terraces that open to the hotel gardens. Executive-level rooms also have terraces large enough for loungers. The luxurious Penthouse Suite adds a private pool with panoramic views.

In-room amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs (with limited English-speaking channels), coffee- and tea-making facilities, and mini-fridges (filled on request). Wi-Fi is available but requires a fee and the connection can be spotty. Self-catering rooms and suites add modern kitchenettes with electric hobs, microwaves, and simple cookware (though there's no supermarket on-site or close by). Bathrooms have wall-mounted hairdryers, quality C.O. Bigelow toiletries, and walk-in rainfall showers; suites add separate bathtubs.

The hotel covers all the dining, leisure, and relaxation facilities expected for an upscale resort, except for kid-centric features. Firstly, there are two main outdoor pools -- one lagoon and the other infinity-edge -- both large with plentiful loungers and superb sea views. There's also a deluxe spa with sauna, steam rooms, whirlpool tub, and a heated indoor pool (that guests under 18 can only use between specific times). Other fitness facilities include a gym and two outdoor tennis courts. The hotel's main restaurant opens to a spacious covered terrace overlooking the bay, though its buffet breakfast leaves some disappointed and isn't always included in the rate. There are two other a la carte restaurants on-site, both of which are Italian-themed well-reviewed. A bar just off the lobby and the larger Mistral Bar are open throughout the day, though there's no poolside bar. Parking is ample and free of charge, but Wi-Fi is only free around the lobby.