Reviews / Special Offers

Reproduced from Lonely Planet with special permission (Link to article)
"Aristocratic Malta meets Africa in a prime location."

Guesthouse (Mid Range)
Reviewed by Carolyn Bain

This guesthouse scores goals with its winning combination of affordable rates and privileged position, just metres from the walled city of Mdina (historic Malta at its most photogenic). Adding to its assets is the new management team, a South African-Maltese couple, who are busy stamping a unique personality on the place.

The large, spotless twin and double guest rooms are simply furnished, with tiled floors, whitewashed walls and recently modernised private bathrooms. They're comfy enough, but there are plans to rejuvenate the decor in the not-too-distant future. The recently renovated lower levels are where the Point de Vue's new persona shines through: the walls have been stripped back to their original stonework, and some quirky African accents added. The casual Java Lounge & Terrace features soft leather lounges and zebra- and leopard-print cushions. The more formal Butcher's Grill restaurant has a team of Tanzanian chefs preparing local standards and more exotic fare. Sure, aristocratic-Malta-meets-Africana sounds kinda odd, but this place will make you smile, and allow you to experience a memorable part of the country without blowing your budget.

AUTHOR EXPERIENCE Mdina is one of Malta's must-sees - stroll the quiet laneways and pop into any church or low-key museum that takes your fancy. For refuelling, Fontanella Tea Gardens (Triq is-Sur) has extensive cake choices to accompany its sweeping views, while Il Gattopardo (Triq Villegaignon) is a quirky gallery-cafe with a pretty courtyard and Greek-inspired menu.

CURIOUS FACT During WWII Point de Vue was used as an improvised 'control tower' guiding the Allied planes and they landed at the RAF's airstrip in nearby Ta'Qali.

TRANSPORT DETAILS From bus stop in Rabat, walk N towards Mdina. Guesthouse is on right, at edge of car park.