Notes from the host
Mediterranean Villa by the Sea
NEW SUMMER DATES ADDED - Secluded spacious villa on private coastal estate with gardens, tennis, pool and direct sea access. According to a May 2023 article in CNN TRAVEL, the islands of Malta & Gozo were described as having "water the bluest of blue; the cuisine is a feast, ancient traditions are still celebrated, and the people are proud but extremely friendly." Recently called the "Best European Island for Sparkling Coves" by Conde Nast Traveller magazine, and described as "a spot tailor-made for rest and relaxation" by Travel & Leisure in January 2023.
This exceptional villa is in a magical spot with amazing views and direct access to the Med. It is set in a 2 hectare private estate adjacent to the sea with mature gardens, tennis court and infinity-style pool. The villa has recently been renovated by a leading designer in contemporary style with air conditioning, under-floor heating and spacious patios. The property, idyllic in summer or winter, comprises 6 bedrooms (4 doubles, 2 double/twins) all with dedicated shower rooms in 2 self-contained areas (3 bedrooms in each, plus kitchen & reception areas) connected by a small courtyard.
The property boasts seaside gardens containing typically Mediterranean flora, local vegetables, olive and fruit trees (which can be available for guests depending upon the season). The villa and garden have superb south facing views of the sea and the smaller neighbouring isle of Comino. For those who wish to experience the clear Mediterranean Sea there is direct access to a flat rock beach with its own sunbeds, umbrellas and a small sea pool. Diving and water sports are available by arrangement. Guests can also make use of the full size tennis court, ping-pong table, exercise equipment and Bocci court – all next to the house. Alternatively, guests can relax beside the fresh-water pool in the garden or the nearby beach (both equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas). A 400m jogging path is also available within the grounds.
The villa’s rural exterior and contemporary interior is attractive and comfortable. The ground floor layout is open-plan overlooking an outdoor paved terrace that wraps around the south-east and south-west of the villa, perfectly designed for barbecues and al fresco living. There is a fully-equipped main kitchen and spacious dining areas which are designed for entertaining up to 12 guests inside or outside (and up to 16, if required). A large U-shaped living/sitting area provides a relaxing and comfortable environment complete with modern facilities including under-floor heating and air conditioning. The 6 bedroom suites are divided between two neighbouring sections (the main house and a guest annexe) which are separated by a small courtyard. There are 3 bedroom suites at ground floor level belonging to the main house - 2 doubles and 1 double/twin. Across the little courtyard there is a smaller self-contained annexe with 3 more bedroom suites. There are 2 bedroom suites at first floor level - 1 double and 1 double/twin. At this level there is also a small cosy sitting area for enjoying the exceptional sea views. At the ground floor level, there is a further suite with a double bedroom and bath/shower room as well as a separate small kitchen and dining area.
The house is perfectly located on Calypso’s Island of Gozo – the sea is found at the bottom of the gardens and the charming village of Qala is approximately 2 km away (about 20 minutes on foot). Here you will find small grocery shops, chemist, a bar, Bocci club and a few restaurants centred on the picturesque church square. Also within walking distance is a beach with bathing platforms, water sports, a kiosk and other facilities. The picturesque harbour town of Mgarr - with fishing boats, restaurants and the 25 minute ferry ride to Malta - is a short drive away. The ancient city of Victoria/Rabat (8 km from the house) has a hospital and offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants and a cinema. As described in The Independent newspaper "the island is known as having some of Europe's best diving, as well as kayaking, e-biking, deep-water soloing, Segway tours and stand-up paddleboarding. Nine coastal trails have recently been completed, including a memorably beautiful 13km trail heading along the wild cliffs from Mgarr to Xlendi on the south coast. Encircling the island, the 50km Gozo Coastal Walk presents more of a challenge."
The Maltese Archipelago located just 60 miles south of Sicily, has a history as fascinating as its neighbour and the same clear blue seas that have attracted travellers for centuries. Gozo, the second largest is a peaceful little island with small towns focusing on their elaborate churches – usually sitting on a hill, and surrounded by the main square with open air cafes, restaurants and bars. The citadel dates back to the 16th century and the UNESCO-listed Ggantija temples to before 3,000BC. The cuisine has many influences but like most of the Med, dishes often feature fresh fish and seafood, tomatoes and olive oil. There are a number of good restaurants on the island, and the owners are happy to recommend their favourites. The coastline is varied, with small coves for swimmers, diving and sun worshippers and dramatic cliffs for walking and mountain-biking. The beautiful seas are perfect for exploring by boat, with pleasure trips to the Blue Lagoon or private chartered day trips to Malta or Sicily.
The city of Valletta on the island of Malta is a European Capital of Culture and is hosting cultural events throughout the year. Although Malta’s history goes back to ancient times, it was in the 17th Century that the island became the focus of Europe when the Knights of St John set about building the city of Valletta from scratch – as a fortress to protect Europe from invaders and to become a cultural masterpiece. An exceptional number of buildings survive today including the magnificent baroque Cathedral of St John – which is why it has been declared a World Heritage City by UNESCO. The fortified city of Mdina dates back to Roman times and is a ‘silent’ city, meaning you can walk through the narrow lanes to palaces and chapels without being disturbed by traffic. Private tours of these historic areas are available by request.
The Maltese islands offer some of Europe’s best weather, providing the most hours of sunshine in Europe. Like its Mediterranean neighbours, the warm weather starts in May but lasts until October/November – even the winter is mild with temperatures averaging around 13º C/55º F in the coldest months.
Reaching the islands is easy, with regular international flights to Malta and a frequent ferry service from there to Gozo. Private transfers to the property can be arranged by request.
Please note that the local house manager speaks English, Italian and Maltese.
MTA (Malta Tourism Authority) License number is HPC/G/001