Casa Ellul, Valletta, Malta - Explore & Book
"All Valletta’s streets are beautiful. Tall 16th- and 17th-century terraced townhouses line narrow lanes, fronted with beautiful wooden and glass-pannelled balconettes. Casa Ellul stands on one of the loveliest of all, just a few doors down from Europe’s oldest theatre, with a glimpse of sea at the end. The warren-like mansion has been in the family for over 5 generations, and its wine-merchant sibling owners have overseen a fabulous labour-of-love conversion by local Maltese architect Chris Briffa. He’s created 9 suites that are all different, with lashings of character, style and charm. Original features including stone windows and a marble staircase have been maintained, and combined with modern touches such as free-standing bathtubs and work-of-art photographs. The courtyard at the centre has been given a stylish makeover, too, with a statue of a Greek god, bright designer chairs and a stripe of vertical lawn. This is an intimate place, the welcome is warm and the conscientious staff give great advice on what to see and where to eat. Highs Supremely comfortable beds (romantic doubles, spacious twins) and gorgeous bathrooms Sea views, terraces and Jacuzzis in the largest roomsA creative chef who whips up whatever you fancy for breakfast; they've added a restaurant since our visit, tooThe small size of the hotel allows for personal attention and lots of local recommendationsCentral location, walking distance from everything in Valletta, including the ferry for trips to Gozo and Comino (no need for a car) Lows This is an old house, so rooms are all shapes and sizesIt's not cheap, but it's worth every EuroAn adults-only property, children under 12 are not permittedWe can't personally vouch for the restaurant just yet, but we can't wait to visit" - Abigail Blasi
