Perched high in the emerald hills of Rabat (the town in Malta, as opposed to the capital of Morocco!), The Verdala Hotel is Malta’s newest jewel, a sanctuary of calm that redefines Mediterranean luxury.
During our Maltese escape, courtesy of Aer Lingus, Visit Malta, and AX Hotels, we were fortunate enough to experience this extraordinary adults-only wellness retreat, and it’s safe to say it left an indelible impression.
From the moment you arrive, The Verdala’s serene energy envelops you. Every detail , from the soft earth tones of the interiors to the gentle scent of citrus and sea salt , has been curated to encourage rest, renewal, and uninterrupted relaxation. Newly opened in the heart of Rabat, Verdala Hotel offers an intimate luxury experience with just 47 elegantly designed rooms. Some rooms feature private balconies with hot tubs and hammocks, while every room comes with a yoga mat for morning or evening stretches, combining relaxation with wellness in a serene Maltese setting. The rooms, with their expansive terraces and sun-dappled views of the countryside, invite you to slow down and breathe in the quiet rhythm of the island.
The spa, however, is where The Verdala truly shines. Designed as a journey rather than a destination, it features thermal suites, tranquil treatment rooms, and dedicated meditation zones that transport you to a state of deep stillness. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating facials, body therapies, and holistic rituals crafted to restore balance and vitality. The infinity pool, its waters seamlessly blending into the horizon, overlooks Malta’s lush valleys, a view so serene it feels almost suspended in time.
It’s easy to lose track of hours here, floating between treatments and terrace lounging, lulled by the hum of cicadas and the soft breeze drifting from the coast. But when evening arrives, The Verdala invites you to another kind of indulgence at The Griffin Brasserie, a dining experience that celebrates the island’s culinary creativity. We began with an unforgettable lasagne layered with tender octopus, followed by wild seabass paired with tomato confit, aubergine caviar, and briny black olives , each bite a refined homage to the Mediterranean’s bounty.
Rabat itself, with its winding lanes, ancient walls, and views that stretch to the sea, offers the perfect complement to The Verdala’s contemporary tranquility. Yet, within the hotel’s walls, time seems to stand still.
For travelers seeking more than just a getaway , a true recalibration of body and mind ,The Verdala Hotel is not just a stay, but a state of being. Malta may be known for its history, but at The Verdala, it’s the art of modern serenity that takes center stage and I cannot wait to go back.
