Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz

Despite being in walking distance of village life, this property has a tucked-away feel, enhanced by winding garden paths and palm trees. This is one of Gozo's fancier properties, even attracting Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt in 2015 during their filming of "By The Sea." While decor isn't grandiose, it's smart and classically elegant. The lofty lobby's wood-paneled ceiling, internal wrought-iron balconies, and impressionist art pieces are traditional, as is L'Ortolan Restaurant's lamp chandeliers and white-clothed tables. Relaxation-wise, there's lots on offer for both couples and adults, though romancing adults tend to be the bulk of guests, with many taking advantage of the excellent Ayurvedic spa. Properties in Gozo tend to err on the rustic side, so don't expect a super swish finish, but for an indulgent stay by local standards, it fits the bill.

Gozo is known for its unspoiled beauty, and countryside settings here embrace it. The hotel is a 15-minute walk in either direction to the Ta’ Dbeigi craft village (for local food and souvenirs) and San Lawrenz, where churches are beautiful, but there's very little activity. Free shuttles run to the city of Victoria, Xlendi seaside, and Dwerja Bay (which, despite the 2017 collapse of its famous Azure Window, is now a diving paradise). The Ta' Pinu Shrine and Inland Sea Lagoon are five minutes away by car, and 20 minutes is the most you'll need for all of Gozo's other destinations, including Gozo Ferry Terminal, for mainland Malta. Taxis and car rentals are available from the hotel, and busses stop nearby. Malta International Airport is 90 minutes away, including a ferry ride.

Standard, Deluxe, and Suite Rooms featuring old-fashioned, earth-tone decor that's well-appointed, if a little underwhelming in some units. Expect tile floors, light walls, classic wooden furniture, a piece or two of artwork, and carved details in wardrobes or dressers. Starting at 377 square feet (35 square meters), rooms are spacious, and come with comfy beds, premium linens, fluffy robes, and slippers. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos in Standard Rooms, while upgraded units have separate tubs (some jetted) and walk-in showers, and swish marble tiling in some. The Residence units, which range from Studios to Three-Bedroom Apartments, have full kitchens, huge terraces, and access to a shared private pool. Deluxe Rooms have living areas, which are more expansive in Suites.

Flat-screen TVs, desks, kettles for tea- and coffee-making, minibars, safes, hairdryers, toiletries, and air-conditioning come standard. Furnished balconies face gardens or pools. Views are pleasant, but thin walls can make rooms noisy.

Expect recreational features, including multiple outdoor pools, where palm tree-flanked islands and bridged structures are atmospheric. However, unheated waters are chilly outside of peak season. Stone terraces are lined with cushioned loungers, some of which are shaded by pergolas and umbrellas. A summer snack bar serves drinks and light bites by the main adult-only pool. A Residence-only pool and family setup with a kiddy pool are also outdoors. 

Dining-wise, the main L'Ortolan serves Mediterranean-focused, well-reviewed buffets for all meals. The Italian, dinner-only Trattoria receives mixed reviews. Both outlets offer al fresco seating, as does the lantern-lit Gazebo eatery open during the summer. La Caverna is a refined wine bar, and there's a lounge space that serves afternoon tea and cocktails.

The Ayurvedic-centric, full-service spa has a sleek, heated indoor pool, marble Turkish hammam, whirlpool, sauna, and treatment rooms for individuals and couples. For activity-minded guests, two squash and flood-lit tennis courts, and sufficient gym are available. Children over 3 can utilize a kids' club.

Pets aren't permitted. Free shuttles, multiple meeting and events spaces, free parking, and free Wi-Fi complete features.