Cugó Gran Macina — Hotel in Senglea

This hotel is truly exceptional, and its standout feature is Dora, the warm and welcoming face at the reception. Her genuine hospitality, not just a scripted welcome, made my arrival memorable. Her co-worker, Maliya, an intern, also showed promise, despite needing a bit more confidence. I was pleasantly surprised to learn she was an intern, given her extensive knowledge. This personal touch sets this hotel apart from others worldwide and is one of the best first impressions I have ever had.

You can tell that Dora is passionate about what she does, and it is not “just a job,” as she made it an exceptional experience. When she offered me Prosecco, and I explained that it gave me a headache, she offered me a lovely glass of wine. She guided me, explaining the hotel’s history on the way to the room, and showed me how things worked and were laid out. It was apparent it was not just for the tip, but she was passionate about what she did. The rooms are perfectly laid out, so you face a beautiful view of the historical harbor and its yachts. It's an immaculate environment that is well set up with USB and lighting options. I wish the site emphasized or somebody told me there was a pool as I would have brought my suit. They have a fantastic modern rooftop pool that's just large enough to be fun, with a stunning view of Birgu and Senglea harbor and the other harbors. There are, however, two constructive recommendations. I wanted a room with a bath, but there was only one in the hotel, and it was taken. I was there overnight, and another couple, just checking in from a long-haul flight, were not disappointed but upset; they couldn’t get a bathtub. It’s an easy fix. People who fly a lot know and want to soak in a tub when they get off the plane, and at the end of the day, when you've been looking at tourist sites, there's nothing more refreshing than a nice bath. Don't get me wrong, I love showers, but they have limits. Secondly, I needed to say something about the restaurant. It is a diamond in the rough and an opportunity wasted. It has a beautiful, ideal location with a great outdoor patio, and no one is ever there. It could be a destination spot for people who come to Malta and want a better experience, something casual but elegant—sitting along the ramparts enjoying a lovely cocktail or glass of wine, or whatever. The place would be packed, especially if somebody had some ideas about music. Maybe a pop-up with a DJ that plays cool bar music, such as the Rat Pack or classic jazz, in the background, not something that will rattle your teeth. The bar and terrace are empty, and the restaurant is almost empty - only two tables. There are reasons - bad reviews and the staff. I was searching for herbal tea to go to sleep. In the morning, finally, a lovely woman came out to give me a cappuccino. I came back for a business breakfast. It was overstaffed, but I had to keep hopping up and down to get anything. I had to get another cup of coffee and saw four staff members chatting and cleaning glasses behind the bar. There were only two tables of people having breakfast, but they didn't want to help anybody. What's crazier is there are a lot of good young chefs out who would love to have the opportunity to be at this hotel. Frankly, somebody needs to wake up and decide that they will have a hip but relaxed outdoor bar, terrace, and a full restaurant. The rest of the team needs Dora. So, it may seem strange that I'm giving it five stars, but I won't harm the hotel because of the shortcomings of some people working behind the front desk or the insanity of the restaurant or bar. I recommend this hotel to anyone visiting MALTA as Birgu is beautiful, not inundated with tourists, and has impressive lovely architecture and history. You can enjoy a delightful meal by the harbor, the cool breeze, and the scenery. Take a gondola to Valetta to see more well-known sites if you want. That's what I'd recommend. I now live in Malta. I am a Maltese citizen but have stayed in hotels...

Impeccable communication from the hotel prior to my presence in the country. A pleasant drive from the airport, the hotel is very easily located opposite the harbour with a well placed, plated, exuberant sign that glows with delight. Parking can be found most abundantly on the harbour infront of the hotel, without any charge. Upon entry one notices the exquisite architecture and significant history of the property. The exterior impresses memories of the ages which is in stark contrast to the modernised interior of the entrance hall. My arrival was greeted with a joyous rapture without any hint of frugality by the wonderful clerks who confirmed my details. The room was well placed and serviced by a rather shiny lift with open roof. A very interesting experience it was and a pleasant ride. The doors are quaint, with good texture and sound proofing. The rooms are absolutely uniquely exceptional - one can note the architecture, the curves and shadows that interplay and weave with the feeling of the building. I truly felt like a king, no, a well-endowed king in my grandiose surroundings. The bathroom was unmblemished, clean, hygenic and immaculate. The shower was equally impressive - I washed myself like a majestic, elegant BUT pristine and handsome rhinoceros. My horn shone like the sun itself. I must compliment the bathroom condiments - I smelt like a thousand flowers on the breeze. The bed was genuinely hearty and provided more than adequate comfort for my cosmic rump to rest in after a day of exploration - especially after one had vanquished ones enemies. The air conditioning unit was fantastical and ensured I slept soundly. A fridge is also harboured inside the room where I kept my beverages in truly glacial condition. The lodging also has a restaurant within serving blissful food into the late hours with indoor and outdoor seating. My belly was full of goodness. One should note the upper levels contain a pool where I wallowed. In summary I would recommend this establishment for all who seek...

Dear Pravin, Marc, Carlos and all the team at the Gran Cugo,

My new husband Rob and I cannot thank you enough for helping us to host the most incredible, magical and unforgettable experience at your stunning hotel.

Rob and I got married on 13/08/22 at a nearby church and hosted our celebrations at The Sheer Bastion, on your upper level. Staying with you for the weekend offered the convenience we knew we would appreciate with having our son and other children at our wedding, not to mention the 5-star luxury and seamless, efficient and professional service from your amazing team.

Rob and I had the most wonderful, magical wedding day - everything we had dreamt of and more. It was so special having our family and friends with us, enjoying Malta and the amazing views from the Sheer Bastion and the Gran Cugo.

Thank you for organising the Presidential suite so beautifully for the time we were there. The bottle of wine and card as we arrived on the Friday was such a thoughtful gesture, thank you. The petals and swans on the Saturday night was also so lovely, thank you.

We truly had the most amazing and unforgettable experience with our son and our guests, one that we’d love to repeat in the future - maybe when we celebrate our wedding anniversary :-)

Thank you...