A medieval palace situated among the quiet streets of Malta’s former capital Mdina has reopened as a five-star hotel and is capturing the attention of specialist tour operators.
The Xara Palace, built as a palazzo for Baroness Xara in the early 17th century, was used as RAF officers’ accommodation in World War II and subsequently became a 34-room guesthouse popular with writers and artists. Now it is being dubbed Malta’s most exclusive hotel, with 17 individually designed suites containing antique Maltese furniture and original works of art.
Two are ‘presidential’ suites, several are duplex style and four feature a terrace Jacuzzi. Most offer views over Mdina’s medieval bastions across open countryside.
Owner and managing director Justin Zammit Tabona said: “The building has been restored to its original state, with the rooms designed in the style of the old palace. The furniture is 18th and 19th-century – chests of drawers, writing desks, mirrors and lamps. There’s a 17th-century entrance door and the reception area is an 18th-century organ gallery.”
Catering is a blend of Mediterranean, French and North Italian, prepared by chef Xavier Le Henaff whose two-star Michelin experience comes from Le Manoir au Quat’ Saisons in Oxfordshire. Facilities at the Xara Palace include the rooftop De Mondion restaurant, a trattoria, gym and sauna.
Operators featuring it for 2000 include Belleair, Prestige, Cadogan and Thomson Breakaway. Prestige deputy managing director John Dixon said: “The opening of the Xara Palace gives a real lift to the quality image that Malta is seeking.”
Seven-night Prestige packages lead in at £634 on bed and breakfast.