The new must-visit Maltese escape - Cugó Gran Macina Grand Harbour

A Londoner Travels

Reclining in solitude by the hotel’s rooftop pool while London crumpled under its latest downfall of snow, it was clear to see just why Malta is such a popular year round destination for British sunseekers. A fleeting two day visit in March saw the mercury topping 25 degrees, a far cry from the chilly streets I left behind and a more than welcome respite given our particularly long and drawn out winter…

With Valletta its capital named as the European Capital of Culture for 2018, Malta’s popularity certainly won’t be waning any time soon and with an incredible schedule of music, art, festivals and exhibitions planned for the year there’s no bad time to go. While Valletta may have a wealth of accommodation amongst her hilly cobbled streets however, it’s the newly-opened Cugó Gran Macina Grand Harbour that should be first on your radar when looking into your sunshine getaway.

Across the harbour from Valletta, yet just ten minutes away on the ferry, the opening of the Cugó Gran Macina Grand Harbour resides in Senglea and its January opening marked the completion of extensive renovation of one of the Grand Harbour’s most famous landmarks, Sheer Bastion, originally built in 1554. The building is a stunning structure, juxtaposing original features and stonework with new design details, the work of Maltese architect Edwin Mintoff in conjunction with Milanese Interior Design firm Daaa Haus. High vaulted ceilings are accentuated with an abundance of glass and natural light, and limestone, slate, limed oak, Carrara marble and Maltese hard stone are just some of the traditional materials used to complement the existing historical structure whilst incorporating elegant contemporary design, a partnership that works flawlessly.

With 21 suites offering unobstructed views across the harbour, it’s a stunning feat of design. Arriving on a Sunday afternoon in the blazing sunshine, we were shown through the hotel’s silent corridors to ours, a split level suite encapsulating a downstairs living quarters, with a dining table and huge corner sofa, drowning in light from the floor to ceiling window with the Grand Harbours blue waters twinkling on the other side. A mezzanine bedroom and custom-designed bathroom with walk in rain shower and underfloor heating completed the room, decorated minimally yet oh so chicly with a few interesting little touches, a mere nod to the area’s maritime heritage.

The rooftop pool is a undoubtedly a selling point; the views across Vittoriosa and Cospicua are exceptional and it would be all too easy to succumb to the sun-drenched solitude and never leave its side. One would however question whether a whole day could be spent up there; it remains to be seen as to whether as high season approaches there may be something of a rooftop bar pop up, or even a means to contact the restaurant downstairs to order refreshments.

Breakfast is served in the Hammett’ss Macina Restaurant on the ground floor, a continental spread along with a capsule menu. Confusing as it was that eggs Florentine was on there but no Benedict or Royale, the kitchen was nevertheless accommodating of our off grid requests for amendments, which arrived perfectly cooked and delicious.

Unfortunately while we were in residence the restaurant was closed both evenings, leaving us to scout out local dinner options for ourselves, though with a plethora of restaurants not only within a few minutes walk of the hotel in Senglea, but across the harbour in Vittoriosa, there was more than enough to choose from, as long as your a fan of freshly-caught seafood, Italian influenced flavours and crisp Mediterranean wines.

With wonderful staff more than willing to arrange transfers, book restaurants and recommend the best of the local area to explore, the Cugó Gran Macina may be a grand addition to the Grand Harbour but it certainly doesn’t share the pretence of some similar properties. It’s spacious rooms open atmosphere and historical features mean it feels altogether more casual and homely than its pedigree would imply, giving the best of both worlds and the perfect escape from the bustle of Valletta’s busy streets. For an sunshine escape without the hectic city centre feel, this is one hotel worth booking.

Rooms from €215 per night
For reservations call +356 2711 2711
For more information visit www.cugogranmalta.com

Posted Date
Apr 15, 2018 in A Londoner Travels by A Londoner Travels