The best luxury hotel for your stay in Malta will depend on what you want to get out of your trip. Perhaps you’re looking for peace and relaxation, or maybe to be surrounded by specimens of culture and history. Maybe you’re just looking for a glamorous setting and buzzing nightlife. You can find a bit of everything in Malta – a fact reflected in the island’s wide range of five star resorts. Each of the below hotels have their own distinctive character, yet each one promises absolute luxury and comfort.

Radisson Golden Sands, Mellieha

The Radisson Golden Sands is the clear choice for anyone looking to escape the bustling vibe of more touristy areas such as Sliema and St Julians. One of the most charming characteristics of this esteemed hotel is its dramatic views of majestic cliffs and the glittering Mediterranean. A healthy dose of fresh air and sunshine really contributes to the seaside feeling. Add to this the hotel’s stylish and minimalistic architecture, and you have a truly relaxing aura. The Radisson Golden Sands will allow you a more isolated stay, close to fantastic beaches and other famous Maltese attractions such as Popeye Village.

 Westin Dragonara, St Julians

The amazing Westin Dragonara is equally suitable for business trips as it is for family holidays or romantic getaways. The hotel is contemporary, impeccably clean and impressive in size. Its extensive list of facilities, top notch location and spacious, palatial interior will appeal to every kind of guest. The staff will make you feel truly pampered at all times, as will the hotel’s many pools, private beach, tranquil spa and famous Terrace restaurant. At breakfast, you will find yourself on the Westin Dragonara’s eighth floor – a level which offers unbeatable views of the sea.

 Hilton Malta, St Julians

Palm trees, opulent marble halls, golden interior and classical decor; these are the sights that will greet you upon entering the Hilton Malta. Connected to the glamorous Portomaso Tower, the marvellous hotel is an excellent place for those planning to spend a couple of evenings at the casino. The Hilton Malta’s sheer spaciousness and reputation for grandeur makes it an obvious host of international conferences and events, including the annual Battle of Malta poker tournament. At the heart of St Julians, guests also have a number of five star restaurants and trendy clubs at their doorstep.

Phoenicia, Valletta

The historic Phoenicia Hotel and its alluring past is preserved beautifully; its antique and cosy atmosphere captured in time. Classical art lines its walls, with tasteful floral displays in every corner. Phoenicia’s seafood restaurant, Pegasus, offers a dining experience fit for royalty. For a relaxing and romantic stroll, guests can explore the hotel’s gorgeous garden grounds.The hotel is located in the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site that is Valletta, making your stay all the more of an enchanting treat.

Corinthia, St Julians

A modern resort; but with all the character that makes an older and more traditional hotel so inviting. The popular Corinthia Hotel offers fantastic views over a mesmerizing bay. Each plush room is designed for serene comfort. At night, the hotel lights up like a shining jewel amidst the darkness – a perfect time to enjoy one of its many first class restaurants and lounges.

Xara Palace, Mdina

Staying at the Xara Palace is like stepping back in time. In the fortified town of Mdina, an atmosphere of mystique and romance fills every cobblestone street and historic building. Just a short walk from Xara Palace is the Natural History Museum and famous Medina Restaurant. For a fairytale setting and wonderful dose of European history, the lovely Xara Palace is the perfect place to stay.

Grand Excelsior Hotel, Floriana

A favourite amongst visiting celebrities; the Grand Excelsior Hotel is the very definition of a five-star European hotel. Its many large and gorgeously decorated suites are perfect for business trips or romantic getaways. Avant garde exterior and state-of-the-art facilities only further accentuate its prestigious reputation. Everything about this luxury resort – from its first class restaurants to its exceptional service – will make guests feel like royalty.

Kempinski, Gozo

Hidden away on the Maltese island of Gozo, just a 20 minute boat ride from the mainland, lies this splendid hotel. The Kempinski is where nature meets luxury. Its colorful, almost Moorish decor immediately puts the mind at rest. Those looking for a holiday of ultimate relaxation should take advantage of the hotel’s luxurious spa and its Italian restaurant where one can fine dine amidst the luscious blossoms of the hotel’s garden.

The Palace, Sliema

Chic and bold; The Palace Hotel stands out amidst other five star contenders because of its glossy, avant garde style. Each suite boasts modern and creative decor, with an aura of freshness filling the whole resort. A rooftop infinity pool is just one its many marks of luxury, along with its views of vibrant Sliema. For dining, guests have a choice between contemporary Asian cuisine in neon-lit lounges, or a Mediterranean seafood buffet amidst bright, spacious interior.

 Fortina Spa Resort, Sliema

For blizzful afternoons in the jacuzzi and cocktails under palm trees, the Fortina Spa Resort is your best bet. Its welcoming colours of gold, yellow and green contrasts against the brilliant blue of the hotel pool. Enjoy any on the spa’s many treatments, then indulge in the resort’s irresistible cuisine – either outdoors on an exotically decorated patio, or indoors amidst the warmth of a traditionally Italian pizzaria.

This article is written by Sophie Joyce, reporter at the Battle of Malta tournament.