Qawra Palace Hotel

With almost 400 rooms spread over an eight-story building that occupies an entire block, the Qawra Palace Hotel is certainly palatial in terms of size, though not looks. This '80s-era building has a uniform facade of Mediterranean-blue cement balconies and the front entrance is lined with potted red flowers. Inside, a 2013 renovation turned the lobby into a bright and modern space -- aside from baby-blue and beige faux-leather couches -- with a few colorful pieces of art that break up a slightly clinical look. An impressive interior courtyard is composed of manicured plant life, artificial lawns, and the rather odd inclusion of a mini-golf course. Most of the hotel's outdoor space is dedicated to its seafront pool terrace located just across the road, accessible directly from the main building via a tunnel. This family-run hotel has an open and friendly atmosphere that mostly attracts mature couples and an increased number of young families over the summer months. 

The Qawra Palace Hotel is one in a strip of hotels set on the busy main road and promenade overlooking a length of rocky coastline in northeastern Malta's St. Paul’s Bay. The surrounding resort of Qawra is full of bars, cafes, and restaurants mostly centered around the aptly named Tourist Street, about five minutes' walk away. The Qawra Point Beach and neighboring National Aquarium are also under 10 minutes on foot. A more impressive stretch of sand can be found at Golden Bay, a 15-minute drive away. The medieval city of Mdina is also about a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Malta International Airport is 30 minutes away by car.

Despite some renovations that began in 2016, most of the hotel's 395 rooms are still awaiting a makeover and feature dated light-wood furniture, gray-tile floors, and more than a few signs of wear and tear. Rooms that have been updated are clean and bright, with a simple contemporary feel. All rooms open to simply furnished balconies. Front-facing rooms feature full sea views; those on the side have partial, lateral sea views; and the rest overlook the hotel's inner courtyard. While much quieter (since they're free from traffic noise) courtyard rooms lack natural light and balconies are close together. Family rooms are a bit awkward, with four single beds lined up close together. Amenities include flat-screen TVs (with a few English-speaking channels), mini-fridges, and kettles (packs of tea and coffee must be purchased). The use of old-fashioned safes and in-room Wi-Fi are available for a fee. Bathrooms are more modern than bedrooms, with either step-in showers or shower/tub combos, plus hairdryers and basic toiletries.

Features at Qawra palace are convenient and focus on relaxation. Most meals are served in the hotel's large and slightly dated buffet restaurant. Lunch and dinner buffets are also available, and guests can purchase half-board or all-inclusive packages. However, past guests have reported inconsistent food quality. There are a pizza restaurant and gelato shop with alfresco dining over the summer months, and there's also a choice of three bars. Evening entertainment of singers and stand-up comedians tends to be aimed toward the older demographic.Just across the road (accessible via a tunnel) is the hotel's main sun terrace and saltwater swimming pool, featuring fine sea views and a separate kids' pool. Loungers fill up quickly (with some early morning towel reservations) and cushions cost extra. The neighboring rocky beach provides plenty of water sports for rent. Back in the main building, a spa features a heated indoor pool, whirlpool tubs, a salt bath, and sauna, plus a good range of treatments. A tennis court is available on-site. Limited supervised activities for children are provided in the summer months. Free Wi-Fi is available in the public areas.