Discover Malta's First Luxury Wellness Hotel: A Hidden Gem Just 2.5 Hours from Brussels

byruxandra
Mar 23
3 min read

Updated: Apr 22

If you had told me a year ago that I would find wellness paradise just two and a half hours from Brussels, I probably would have laughed. Yet, that's exactly what happened during my weekend at Verdala Wellness Hotel in Malta. This island's first luxury wellness hotel is filled with history and Mediterranean sunshine, and I can't wait to share my experience with you!

The Location: A Perfect Blend of Tranquility and Accessibility

Verdala is nestled in Rabat, on the Tal-Virtù ridge, just one kilometre from Mdina, the Silent City. The views over the valley and Mdina's golden walls are breathtaking, especially at sunset. Can you imagine sipping a cocktail while watching the sun dip below the horizon? Pure magic! The airport is only about 20 minutes away, and the hotel offers chauffeur-driven transfers, making everything even easier. The location is perfect: secluded enough for tranquillity, yet close to all the island's attractions.

The Hotel: A Sanctuary of Comfort and Style

Verdala is part of the AX Privilege Collection and is an adults-only boutique hotel with 46 rooms. The design beautifully combines wabi-sabi philosophy with Mediterranean elegance. Earthy tones, natural materials, generous windows, and warm light embrace you from the very first moment.

I stayed in a room with valley views, and in the morning, coffee in hand, I watched the sun rise over Mdina. It felt like time had stopped. The room had everything I needed for a wellness stay: a healthy minibar, a tea station with herbal blends, vegan skincare products, and even a yoga mat. Talk about a thoughtful touch!

The Spa: A Haven of Relaxation

This is the heart of the hotel. V SPA spans 1,500 m² and is, honestly, the most beautiful spa I've ever experienced.

Indoor luxury spa pool at Verdala Wellness and Spa in Malta featuring modern Mediterranean architecture, curved organic ceiling design, natural stone textures, panoramic countryside views, and minimalist lounge seating, creating a serene high-end wellness retreat atmosphere. — Hidden sanctuaries, sculpted in light and silence.

What did I try? Let me tell you:

Hammam: an absolutely divine purification ritual.
Salt cave: perfect for deep breathing and relaxation.
Infrared sauna: ideal after a day of exploring the island.
Indoor cave-style pool: the atmosphere is magical, with soft lighting and warm water.

There's also an outdoor pool, meditation zones, and studios for yoga and pilates. Every detail is designed to bring you into a state of balance.

Infinity pool at Verdala Wellness and Spa in Malta overlooking panoramic countryside and distant city views, featuring luxury sun loungers, modern terrace design, and Mediterranean landscape, creating a high-end wellness and relaxation destination. — Elevated above the island, where time slows and the horizon stretches endlessly.

The Food: A Culinary Delight

The Griffin Brasserie was a wonderful surprise. The menu is built around local, seasonal ingredients, focusing on nutrition without sacrificing flavour.

Breakfast buffet at The Griffin Brasserie, Verdala Wellness Hotel Malta, featuring fresh muffins, croissants, danishes, bread rolls, and homemade jams on wooden boards in warm golden light. — Freshly baked muffins, pastries, and danishes at the breakfast buffet.

I had probably the best breakfast I've eaten in a while: fresh pastries, eggs benedict, and freshly squeezed juices.

Healthy breakfast buffet at The Griffin Brasserie, Verdala Wellness Hotel Malta, with fresh salads, seasonal fruits, granola, seeds, yogurts, and cold cuts displayed in ceramic bowls on a dark wooden counter. — Fresh, colourful, and healthy: the breakfast buffet at Verdala.

Lunch was equally memorable: refined Mediterranean dishes, balanced portions, and impeccable presentation.

Elegant restaurant interior at Verdala Wellness and Spa in Malta with modern dining tables and soft lighting, overlooking panoramic countryside and historic architecture through large windows, creating a luxury fine dining experience with scenic Mediterranean views. — A table set in quiet anticipation… framed by Malta’s timeless landscape.

Exploring Malta: A Treasure Trove of Experiences

Between spa sessions, I explored the island. Here are some highlights:

Mdina: narrow streets, golden stone walls, and an almost surreal silence.
Valletta: the baroque capital, full of colour and history.
Blue Grotto: sea caves with turquoise waters, perfect for a morning excursion.

Malta is surprisingly easy to explore, and from Verdala, you have quick access to all the main attractions. I found myself enchanted by the island's charm at every turn!

Final Thoughts: A Journey Worth Taking

Verdala Wellness Hotel isn't just a place to stay. It's a complete experience. From the location and design to the spa and food, everything is crafted for relaxation and reconnection. If you're looking for a weekend where you can forget the chaos of everyday life and focus on yourself, this is the place.

My rating? 10 out of 10. Without hesitation.