With the coldest months of the year behind us, and the hottest ones still a little while away, this milder time of year beckons for the shedding of a few layers, and with that perhaps an invigorating swim that will leave us neither shivering nor scorched.
With no shortage of indoor pool options available, we’ve selected six – most of which form part of the spa offering of lavish hotels across the islands, including Gozo – that promise to deliver R&R in tranquil and design-oriented settings.
The Phoenicia Malta
Among the various alterations carried out to the iconic Phoenicia Malta in recent years is the addition of a new wing that houses the spa. Completed in 2020 and designed by AP Valletta, the concept behind it is rooted in the memory of ancient Roman baths and their ample benefits, with the indoor pool, seemingly carved out of the 16th century fortifications, being central to the entire setting.
Iniala Harbour House
Housed within the five-star Iniala Harbour House and Residences, Essensi Spa follows the same sense of refinement as the rest of hotel, which boasts an incredible location along St Barbara Bastions in Valletta. The private indoor pool area is set within the property’s ancient vaults positioned at the heart of Iniala, where exposed stone walls envelope guests in a tranquil space that oozes a sense of history.
Corinthia Palace Attard
As a stalwart of Malta’s hospitality industry, Corinthia Palace Attard – the very birthplace of the now global Corinthia brand – transformed its Athenaeum Spa in recent years to reflect the elegant, la dolce vita-inspired charm of the rest of the hotel. The concept was developed by UK studio Goddard Littlefair, who worked together with QP on the project to deliver a refined setting rooted in a feeling of wellness and lifestyle.
Mercury Malta
Located underground within a post-WWII telecommunications hub inside Mercury House is the wellness area of Mercury Malta by Dee Spas, designed by Mina Design Studio. The limestone-lined vaults were refurbished to house luxurious amenities and treatment areas, as well as an indoor pool that features an Epson Laser projector enclosed in a weatherproof casing designed to create a soothing and immersive experience.
InterContinental Malta
Within the extensive wellness offering of the InterContinental Malta hotel in St Julian’s – including a dedicated space for Hammam treatments – is a sprawling indoor pool with a bold colour choice. The ceiling and surrounding columns, awash in an unexpected shade of deep brown, set a moody scene, while the white deckchairs and flooring and sparkling blue pool offer an exciting contrast.
Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz
From the rooms to common spaces, the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz has recently completed a series of renovations – and its indoor pool and spa area are also looking fresher than ever. Timber panels on the ceiling create a warm and earthy aesthetic, complemented by mosaic columns, rattan deckchairs and bright blue doors that exude a sense of Mediterranean charm that can be felt in every corner of this Gozitan hideaway.
Main photo: Corinthia Palace Hotel
If you enjoyed this article, you might also be interested in: Comfort, looks & views for days – six fabulous lidos to visit before summer ends
