In recent years, the tiny island nation of Malta is gaining traction as a Mediterranean tourist destination combining both history and sun-soaked adventure. Valletta, Malta’s capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with millennia of history at the crossroads of civilizations; its architecture bears the imprint of successive regimes including the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Arabs and the Order of the Knights of St John. As described by UNESCO, “Valletta’s 320 monuments, all within an area of 55 [hectares], make it one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world.” And the country’s other islands offer plenty for nature lovers and water enthusiasts.
Another reason Malta is making headlines: the capital has been designated the European Capital of Culture for 2018. And a flurry of exciting hotel projects are also putting Malta on the international tourism map. Earlier this year, we reported on the renovation of The Phoenicia, the latest cool project from CampbellGray Hotels. Now we’re getting wind of another buzzworthy project: a design-centric boutique hotel called the Bête Noire (translation: “black beast”). A member of Design Hotels, the hotel was conceived by the DAAA Haus architecture and design studio, transforming a 16th Century residence into a contemporary space—with some fun eccentricities—celebrating the “historic baroque architecture.”
According to the architects, “Bête Noir recalls the noir ambience of a mysterious city sombre fairy tales of yester year, but without being too gloomy, the branding needs to use these traits in a sexy way, intriguing potential guests in wanting to reside in a boutique experience surrounded by the dark sensuality of the unknown.” Hotel perks will include a rooftop pool and hammam.
The exact opening date in 2017 has not yet been revealed. Stay tuned…
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