The Victoria Hotel ★★★★

Malta inspires the historian in me. Its variety of prehistoric temples, old churches, and grand, ornate cathedrals make it a portal to the past, isolated from the rest of mainland Europe by sparkling, cobalt waters. The Knights of Malta present a fascinating, well known legend that is ever-present throughout the island, and I’m on a mission to follow in their footsteps.

Arriving in Sliema, a stylish town just north of Valletta, I first find myself staring open-mouthed at the incredible limestone buildings. Emanating a golden glow and contrasted against the crisp, blue sky, they take on an ethereal, magical quality that can only be experienced on the shores of majestic Malta. But the sun-blushed architecture isn’t the only thing that stops me in my tracks. The streets of the town are lined with fancy boutique stores, and the lively waterfront is perfect for sunset cocktails or a delicious fish supper with friends. There’s something here for every kind of traveller: for the sun-seeker, there are sprawling, sandy beaches, for the curious culture vulture, there are countless museums and galleries, and for the spend-thrift there are a staggering amount of quirky boutiques. 

As I stroll past the numerous cafes, bars, patisseries, shops, and restaurants, I start to make a mental itinerary, but soon realise that there won’t be enough time to experience it all – just as well, really, because I’m already planning on coming back. With a history that spans back over thousands of years, there is not enough time in the world to delve into every nook and cranny of Malta – and Sliema is just the starting point. For a relatively small island, Malta is blessed with a huge personality, and the looks to go with it. The glowing limestone of the buildings is just a small part of the architectural wonder: there’s also the collection of old Roman and Greek churches, soaring cathedrals, and crumbling, rustic ramparts – an architectural reminder of Malta’s lengthy and often turbulent history.

Aptly enough, my base for the trip is at the Victoria Hotel, which is inspired by the island’s years under British rule, more specifically, the Victorian reign over Malta. Inside, high ceilings are adorned with magnificent chandeliers, and stained glass windows provide a touch of otherworldliness. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with dark wooden furniture and splashes of golds and yellows for a regal vibe; even the in-house bar is nostalgic of an old, British pub – leather Chesterfields offer the perfect place to rest weary legs, and a faded, patterned carpet finishes the look. 

As I experience more of Maltese life, I’m blown away by the extensive history captured on the island and the vast array of activities that are available for visitors – the warm, blue seas are the perfect spot for snorkelling and discovering the island’s underwater world, and the prehistoric temples offer an insight into a time we can only imagine.

Malta seems fit to burst with numerous influences from other parts of Europe – Greek, Roman, Turkish, and British design are all apparent – but they all seem to slot together harmoniously against a backdrop of eternally blue skies and sunshine. In fact, I’m pretty sure Malta isn’t lacking in anything. And, I have to say, neither is the Victoria Hotel. I mentally tick off the cosy rooms and comfortable beds, the friendly, helpful staff, the Victorian design with a modern twist, the delicious menu in the restaurant, the relaxed atmosphere of the bar, and the excellent spa facilities. No, the Victoria Hotel doesn’t come up short on anything.

As clichéd as it sounds, Malta is a little gem in the Mediterranean that holds a fascinating past in its golden grasp. And, on the island, I found another little gem in the form of the Victoria Hotel.