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6 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 10 AUGUST 2025 COMMERCIAL Verdala has been transformed into Malta's first luxury wellness hotel AX Hotels has unveiled the new 5-star Verdala Wellness Hotel in Rabat, as Malta's first premier integrated wellness hotel. As the latest addition to the AX Privilege Collection, the Verdala Wellness Hotel offers a refined selection of wellness experiences and ex- ceptional services that immerse guests in the heart of Malta and the Mediterranean. Now open for reservations, the Verdala Wellness Hotel proudly carries forward the legacy of the iconic Grand Hotel Verdala, a cel- ebrated hospitality landmark that captured the island's imagination in the 1970s. Reimagined as a wellness ho- tel with holistic living at its core, this exclusive destination blends heritage, luxury and innovation to offer curated experiences, com- plemented by extensive facilities and personalised offerings that set it apart. Claire Xuereb, Director of Hos- pitality and Care at AX Group, describes the Verdala Wellness Hotel as "more than just a hotel, it is a place that nourishes the soul rather than vanity. As Malta's first wellness hotel with a holistic approach, it integrates healthy eating, movement, community and social wellness, mindfulness practices and recovery to support overall wellbeing and longevity. Our focus is on balance and sus- tainable wellbeing rather than rig- id limitations." Translating this vision into a physical space was a multi-layered process that required architectur- al sensitivity, design integrity and expert execution across all stages of development, from demolition to full interior completion. De- signed by C&K Architects, who shaped the architectural envelope, with interiors by Dubai-based stu- dio LW, the hotel emerges from the natural ridge as a sculpted retreat anchored in its surround- ings. The AX Group's Develop- ment and Construction team, led by Director Denise Xuereb, car- ried the project through from per- mit stage to completion. "I am proud to see the Verda- la Wellness Hotel brought to life at this level of excellence," said Angelo Xuereb, Chairman of AX Group. "This project holds special meaning as it draws on decades of knowledge, experience and com- mitment, now realised in a desti- nation that truly stands out within our ever-growing portfolio. To see my daughters, Claire and Denise, take on such instrumental roles in shaping and realising this land- mark project is something I deep- ly value. As AX Group celebrates its 50th anniversary, the Verdala destination stands as a defining moment in our company's lega- cy." Every detail within the hotel has been intentionally curated to reflect a harmonious blend of nature, wellness and refined sim- plicity. Earthy tones, raw textures and natural materials create an environment that is effortlessly sophisticated yet deeply calm- ing, offering an invitation to slow down and reconnect. At the entrance of the proper- ty, common spaces are set within a striking three-story structure sculpted to evoke the raw beauty of a natural cavern. This sense of balance and nat- ural refinement extends into the accommodation, where 46 rooms and suites provide a tran- quil retreat shaped by natural materials. Reflecting the same wellness-minded sensibility, they blend natural textures and be- spoke craftsmanship to cultivate a serene atmosphere. The hotel offers Comfort Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Junior Suites, Penthouse Suites and the signature Obser- vatory Suite, with most enjoying views over the surrounding coun- tryside or featuring private well- ness terraces with hammocks and Jacuzzis. Leading the Verdala Wellness Hotel into its inaugural chapter is Senior General Manager Kevin Callus, whose extensive experi- ence across AX Hotels brings a deep understanding of operation- al excellence and brand ethos. Ms Camille Brincat, Hotel Manag- er, plays a pivotal role in shaping Verdala's guest journey, ensuring the hotel sets a new benchmark in wellness hospitality from day one. With a strong leadership team in place, Verdala now brings its wellness vision to life through immersive spaces and holistic offerings, at the heart of which is V SPA, a 1,500-square-metre wellness space that integrates traditional practices with ad- vanced therapies. Signature rit- uals draw from Malta's herbalist roots, while modern offerings in- clude contrast therapies, energy healing, physiotherapy, advanced facials and more. Guests can ex- plore a variety of serene spaces, including a salt cave, hammam, infrared sauna, cave-inspired in- door pool, consultation suites, movement studio for yoga and Pilates and more. Verdala's wellness philosophy is built around Five Pillars of Wellbeing, guiding both the spa- tial design and service approach. Thoughtful communal spaces such as The Nest for reflection, The Drawing Room for quiet reading and The Phoenix Hall for workshops and events comple- ment the overall rhythm of rest and renewal. The Echoes medi- tation zone provides a still, cave- like retreat for mindfulness and contemplation, while the Elixir Bar offers light nourishment with functional wellness blends. The wellness journey continues into gastronomy at The Griffin Brasserie, Verdala's flagship din- ing destination. Once Malta's favourite tearoom and later a re- nowned nightclub, The Griffin reopens with a renewed focus on wellness through food. The kitchen is led by Head Chef Brady Dalli, whose culinary skill and instinct for flavour shine through a menu rooted in balance and seasonality. Supporting the broader direction is Victor Borg, AX Privilege's Culinary Direc- tor, renowned Master Chef judge and the creative mind behind the award-winning Grain restaurants. Together, they bring a confident and considered approach that aligns seamlessly with Verdala's wellness philosophy. Verdala sets a new standard for wellness hospitality in Malta. With its focus on holistic living, thoughtfully designed spaces and a guest experience rooted in bal- ance, it offers more than a place to stay. It is a destination for restora- tion, reflection and renewal. Reservations are now open via www.verdalahotelmalta.com Melita Business renews partnership with Buena Vista Holidays MELITA Business has renewed its partnership with Buena Vista Holidays for a third consecutive term, underlining a strong part- nership built on trust, reliability, and consistent service excel- lence. Through this agreement, Melita Business will continue to provide tailor-made solutions across mobile, internet, TV, and data services, all delivered with competitive pricing and a cus- tomer-first approach. Founded by Paula and Aaron Xuereb, Buena Vista Holidays is a family-run property manage- ment company with over a decade of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry. Known for its creative approach, integrity, and attention to detail, Buena Vista Holidays has grown into one of Malta's most recognised names in the short-let and holiday rentals market. This growth in its prop- erty portfolio has also meant in- creased connectivity needs. "The continued trust shown by Paula and Aaron through the years speaks volumes about the value and support Melita Business delivers," said Anatole Debono, Business Development Manager at Melita. "We under- stand that for a company like Buena Vista Holidays, seamless connectivity is critical to their day-to-day operations and guest experience. That's why we have placed such a strong focus on be- ing responsive and proactive in our support." "Our relationship with Melita is built on mutual respect, open communication, and results," said Aaron Xuereb, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Buena Vista Holidays. "The personal- ised attention we receive, com- bined with consistently reliable services, makes them a true part- ner in our success." From high-speed internet and mobile connectivity to tailored TV solutions and data packag- es, Melita Business continues to provide Buena Vista Holidays with the infrastructure needed to support a growing, dynam- ic business. With this renewal, both companies will continue to collaborate on unlocking new op- portunities together. Anatole Debono, Business Development Manager at Melita (left) with Aaron Xuereb, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Buena Vista Holidays