Point de Vue Guesthouse
No. 2/7, Saqqajja Square, Rabat, Malta
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#3 of 4
expert-rated hotels in Mdina- Recommended for:
- Couples, Culture vultures, Singles, Education, Escaping the crowds, History
Expert review of Point de Vue Guesthouse
Family-run guesthouse a stone’s throw from ancient Mdina.
Malta’s magical maze-like first capital Mdina, still medieval in feel, is a place I love to wander around, especially in the evening when most of the tourists have gone. This is easiest, of course, if you are staying nearby. If you can’t afford the stylish but expensive The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, then the Point de Vue is the closest accommodation to Mdina.
Now run by a Maltese-South African family, this 17th century building has been a guesthouse since 1889, and sits just across the car park from the main gate of Mdina. The Point de Vue played a significant role in the Second World War, acting as a makeshift control tower guiding planes into the nearby Ta’Qali airfield and housing RAF pilots. Remains of bomb damage can still be seen near the entrance.
Location:
This is the Point de Vue’s USP – it is about 100m from the main gate through the impressive fortifications of Mdina. It is also very close to the bus stop for Valletta and elsewhere and only a few minutes walk into the centre of Rabat with its own restaurants, museum and remarkable Roman Catacombs. The downside is that the car park rather mars the front of the guesthouse, its breakfast room and terrace.
Bedrooms:
There are 12 double/twin rooms, all but one en-suite; they are basic and clean with cream tiled floors and white bedcovers. Some rooms are in better condition than others so it may be worth chatting to, or emailing, the owners ahead of arrival. Bathrooms are generally small and could do with updating. All rooms have cable TV, and air con/heaters have recently been installed. Bedrooms overlook either Rabat and the countryside around it, or the car park and Mdina skyline. Two rooms have balconies. There is also one family room.
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Public areas:
The hallway is clearly that of an historic building, with high vaulted ceilings and broad stairs. The public rooms are welcoming and the coffee shop/bar and restaurant well-used.
Eating and drinking:
Full cooked breakfast – and plenty of it - is included in the B&B price. All-day snacks and meals are on sale in the Java Lounge coffee shop. Lunch and dinner are available in the distinctive African-inspired Butcher’s Grill where the Tanzanian kitchen staff cook up a mix of African recipes, plus European food with an African twist.
Service:
Helpful and personal, though during busy periods it may take time to extract a member of staff from the coffee shop. Excellent at dealing with email requests.
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Who stays there:
Tourists of all nationalities, and occasional British servicemen remembering the Second World War.
Price advice:
In summer, it can seem expensive for what it is – you are paying for the location. Children aged 0-5 stay free and 6-12-year-olds sharing with parents get a 10 euro discount.
Pros:
The prime location
Cons:
The car park out front
More information on Point de Vue Guesthouse:
- Price from:
- Type:
- Bed & Breakfast
- Address:
- No. 2/7, Saqqajja Square, Rabat, Malta
- Free tags / Keywords:
- historic, Second World War
- Amenities:
- Restaurant, Parking
