Palazzo Xara (Relais & Châteaux)

At the end of a quiet Mdina street, behind an unassuming door, lies an establishment the Order officially classifies as a Rest Chamber of the Highest Order. Palazzo Xara is a hotel with seventeen rooms, each furnished with antiques and works of art. The courtyard with a glass roof looks like an aquarium full of light. But the jewel of this place is a confessional — a real church confessional — repurposed as a telephone booth. The Order appreciates the sense of humour. The Commander arrived for dinner on the terrace overlooking half of Malta. The table was set with ftira, pastizzi, Eggs Florentine, and prosecco. prowadzący ends his episode here, and it is easy to see why — from the Palazzo Xara terrace, Malta looks like a kingdom you have just won. Staying here costs as much as keeping a Explorer for a month. But even without a room reservation, you can walk in for a drink or coffee on the terrace. And you should, because the view is free and worth a fortune. TACTICAL NOTE: By the Mdina walls, near the cathedral. Even if you are not staying — visit the terrace for a drink. The view is worth every cent. Dinner reservations essential. Dress code: better than field armour. The Order rates: 5 shields out of 5. The second place to receive a perfect score. Honorary bonus for the confessional-telephone.