Malta Marriott Resort & Spa, St Julian’s

The Malta Marriott Resort & Spa is a 5-star hotel rated by the Malta Tourism Authority. It faces Balluta Bay, in St Julian’s, on the promenade leading to Sliema. This former Le Méridien reopened under the Marriott brand in 2020, after a full renovation. It was called the Malta Marriott Hotel & Spa until 2024. It has 301 rooms and suites, most with a balcony. The suites measure 36 to 80 m².

Dining is spread across four venues. The Marketplace, on level 2, serves the breakfast buffet and themed buffets at weekends. Atrio offers Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, with dry-aged meats. Its large terrace overlooks Balluta Bay. In season, the Sundeck serves cocktails and snacks on the roof. The Cala Bar & Restaurant sits beside the lido pool. On the top floor, the M Club lounge welcomes guests in Club rooms and suites.

For relaxation, the hotel has three pools. The Sundeck, a heated rooftop pool, overlooks the bay. The Cala Lido, open in season, combines a large pool and a children’s pool in a garden. It is across the street, on the roof of the car park. The Myoka Lotus spa houses a heated indoor pool, a jacuzzi, a sauna and a hammam. A gym and a squash court complete the picture.

The hotel is happy to welcome families, though it has no kids’ club. Activities are organised for younger guests, such as treasure hunts and cooking workshops. Under-16s cannot use the spa or indoor pool from 12 noon to 6 pm. From 15 June to 15 September, the Sundeck is for over-16s only.

Recent reviews praise the staff above all. They are mentioned in more than half of detailed comments. Reception, the concierge, the breakfast team and housekeeping receive the same praise. Guests also appreciate the cleanliness and the renovated rooms, spacious and comfortable. Housekeeping, with an evening service, is often noted. Many highlight the view over Balluta Bay from the upper floors. The M Club lounge on the top floor is a big hit with those who have access.

The location wins almost everyone over. The hotel overlooks the promenade, between the heart of St Julian’s and Sliema. Restaurants, a small beach and bus stops are close at hand. Valletta is easy to reach by bus or taxi. The breakfast buffet is popular for its choice and omelettes made to order. Some, however, find it repetitive, and its price when not included comes as a surprise. The pools and spa score well, especially the rooftop pool overlooking the bay.

Criticism focuses on a few specific points. The sea view is sometimes partial in the cheapest categories. The separate toilets, with no washbasin, puzzle some guests. The outdoor pools and the jacuzzi are seen as too cool out of season. At the spa, the sauna feels dated and the adults-only hours are poorly enforced. Finally, sea-facing rooms hear the traffic and the weekend buzz.

The Malta Marriott is best suited to couples and families who want a full-service hotel in town. Its conference centre also attracts business travellers. It is best to book a sea-view room on a high floor, or one with M Club access. Those looking for a private beach or a quiet resort away from town will be less satisfied.

The Malta Marriott Resort & Spa stands at 39 Main Street, facing Balluta Bay. This part of St Julian’s borders Sliema, on Malta’s north-east coast. The small Balluta beach is just opposite, across the street. The sandy beach at St George’s Bay is around 1.5 km away. Buses to Valletta stop on the promenade, a few steps away. The capital is around twenty minutes away by car. The international airport is 12 km away, around 25 minutes.

Good to know: the taxi entrance is on Triq Dun Anton Tabone, at the back of the hotel. The Cala Lido pool is across the street.