Iniala Harbour House

Bringing an unprecedented level of luxury to the Maltese Islands, the 23-suite Iniala Harbour House has been cleverly engineered from four 19th-century townhouses overlooking the Grand Harbour in Malta’s capital, Valletta. The views from its rooftop restaurant – which won a Michelin star within six months of opening – are simply unbeatable.

The hotel’s owner enlisted various artisans and spent years painstakingly renovating the succession of historic townhouses that make up the property. The buildings’ protected status means virtually every room inside has retained its original floorplan. Each one is different and every one is special, from the ten rooms and suites found within The House, with its grand staircase, painted cupola and ancient vaults, to the four exquisite suites found next door in The Residences, with their fantastical wallpapers, private plunge pools and spectacular picture windows. A few doors down is The Hideaway, with two rooms and two suites spread over five floors, each on its own level and boasting stunning sea views.

Tucked away in one of the hotel’s historic vaults is the atmospheric lounge bar. Open 24/7 to guests and members only, it not only serves drinks but also doubles as a venue for wine tastings and art demonstrations. Also in the vaults are the indoor pool and spa, which features double and single treatment rooms, a steam room, sauna and relaxation area.

But it’s what’s above not what’s below that really steals the show. Situated on the hotel’s rooftop, ION – The Harbour was one of the first restaurants in Malta to receive a Michelin star and offers exceptional fine dining with unrivalled views of the Three Cities and Grand Harbour.

What’s more, the concierge team have spent years curating a selection of experiences that offer incredible opportunities to see Malta like never before, from interactive private tours and meditative art classes to private yacht charters and underwater photography workshops.