Maritim Antonine Hotel and Spa Review: Pools & Beach Access

The Maritim Antonine Hotel and Spa, a four-star superior property in the hillside town of Mellieħa, has been a popular base for Mediterranean beach holidays since its comprehensive renovation in April 2020. This review draws on official property data, guest feedback across multiple platforms, and verified distances to help you decide whether this hotel fits your travel plans. We’ll assess its pools, dining, spa, and value for different types of travellers.

Last checked: 2026-07-16

Location: Mellieha, Island of Malta · Nearest beach: Mellieha Bay Beach (1.6 km away) · Pools: Rooftop pool, indoor and outdoor pools · Dining: 3 restaurants · Rooms: 280 rooms · Star Rating: 4-star superior

How Far Is the Maritim Antonine from the Beach?

The hotel sits on a hillside about 1.2 km from the seashore and 1.6 km from Mellieħa Bay Beach, Malta’s largest sandy beach. According to Booking.com, the walk to the beach is around 0.7 miles (roughly 15 minutes downhill). The return trip is uphill, which some guests note can be tiring in hot weather. Bus stops just outside the property offer an alternative: the number 41, 42, and 101 routes serve the beach area and Valletta.

Distance to Mellieħa Bay Beach

The verified distance of 1.6 km (1.0 mi) to Mellieħa Bay Beach comes from multiple booking platforms. The beach itself is a wide stretch of golden sand with clear shallow water, popular with families. The hotel’s own shuttle service does not run to the beach, but local buses run frequently.

Walkability to the Seashore

The seashore (1.2 km) is slightly closer, but the route is along a road with limited pavement in places. Guests with mobility issues or small children may prefer using the bus or a taxi. The hotel’s concierge can arrange transport.

The bottom line: The Maritim Antonine is a short walk from the beach, but the uphill return makes it less convenient for those who spend all day on the sand. Plan for a 15–20 minute walk each way.

What Amenities Does the Maritim Antonine Hotel Have?

The hotel offers a broad range of facilities, with three pools, a full-service spa, three restaurants, and a fitness centre. According to the official Maritim website, rooms include flat-screen TVs, individually adjustable air conditioning, and private balconies or terraces. Higher-category suites add a whirlpool, two bathrooms, and larger terraces.

Pool Facilities

The three pools are the hotel’s standout feature. The rooftop BayBliss pool is reserved for guests aged 16 and over, offering panoramic views of Mellieħa Bay. British Airways Holidays confirms the age restriction. The outdoor garden pool and indoor heated pool are open to all ages, with a separate kids’ pool area. Guest reviews on TripAdvisor frequently mention the rooftop pool as the hotel’s highlight.

Spa and Wellness

The on-site spa is a full-service facility offering massages, body treatments, sauna, steam room, and a hot tub. According to a TripAdvisor facility feature, guests often describe the spa as good value. The spa is open to hotel guests and day visitors; pricing is not published on major booking sites but is available at the reception.

Restaurants and Dining

Three on-site restaurants cover different cuisines: Al Ponte Pizzeria serves Italian and pizza, Antonine Al fresco offers outdoor dining, and Les Jardins Restaurant provides international buffet options. Booking.com notes that breakfast is highly rated (8.5/10) with a wide range including continental, full English, vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free options. A rooftop Thai restaurant is also mentioned by some listings, though it may operate seasonally.

The pattern: The hotel’s amenities are clearly geared toward leisure travellers, with the rooftop pool and spa providing adult-focused relaxation while the garden pool and kids’ club serve families. The three dining options are sufficient for short stays, but many guests choose to eat in Mellieħa town for variety.

Does the Maritim Antonine Offer an Airport Shuttle?

Yes, the hotel provides airport shuttle and transfer services. According to British Airways Holidays, the hotel can arrange transfers from Malta International Airport (MLA), which is about 20 km away. The shuttle is chargeable and should be booked in advance through the concierge. Alternatively, the X1 and X1A direct bus routes connect the airport to Mellieħa in about 45 minutes, with a stop near the hotel.

Shuttle and Airport Transfer Services

Multiple booking platforms confirm the availability of airport transfers, though pricing varies by season. The hotel’s own website does not list a fixed price for the shuttle. For independent travellers, the bus option is cheaper: a single journey costs around €2.00 (standard Malta public transport fare).

Why this matters: If you arrive late or have heavy luggage, the hotel shuttle is convenient; otherwise, the bus is a reliable budget option.

Is Breakfast Included at Maritim Antonine?

Breakfast is not automatically included in all bookings. According to Agoda listings (referenced in research notes), packages vary – some include breakfast, others do not. The Booking.com page allows filtering by “breakfast included” rates, so travellers should confirm at the time of booking. When purchased, breakfast is a buffet with a wide selection, rated 8.5/10 on Booking.com.

Breakfast Policy

The standard check-in time is 15:00 and check-out 11:00 (Skyscanner). Breakfast is typically served from 07:00 to 10:00. The hotel also offers a complimentary bottled water (50 cl) on arrival, but refills are chargeable, as noted by British Airways Holidays.

The catch: Breakfast is not guaranteed unless you select a package that includes it. Always check the booking details before confirming.

Which Area of Malta Is Nicest and What Is the Best Resort?

Mellieħa is widely considered one of the nicest resort areas in northern Malta, known for its large sandy beach, relaxed atmosphere, and hillside views. The Maritim Antonine is one of the best-loved properties in the area, according to Thomas Cook, which describes it as a “superior 4-star” hotel. For travellers seeking the most luxurious options in Malta, properties in Valletta (e.g., the Phoenicia Malta) or St. Julian’s (e.g., the Corinthia Palace) offer higher star ratings. However, the Maritim Antonine’s combination of spa, multiple pools, and family-friendly facilities makes it a strong contender for a relaxing beach holiday.

Comparing Mellieħa with Other Resorts

Mellieħa sits in a quieter, more traditional part of Malta compared to the busier resort strip of St. Paul’s Bay or the nightlife of Paceville. The hotel’s hillside location provides cooler breezes and expansive views, but requires a short trip to reach the beach. Reviews on TripAdvisor frequently mention that the area is ideal for those who want a balance of beach access and local charm.

Most Luxurious Hotels in Malta

While the Maritim Antonine is a solid upper-mid-range choice, guests seeking the pinnacle of luxury in Malta often look to the Corinthia Palace in Attard or the Iniala Harbour House in Valletta. These properties offer suites, fine dining, and personalised service at a higher price point. The Maritim Antonine, by contrast, is more accessible and geared toward a broader audience.

The implication: If you prioritise a luxury spa and high-end dining, you may prefer a 5-star hotel in Valletta. If you want a well-equipped 4-star hotel with a great pool scene and easy access to a beautiful beach, the Maritim Antonine is a strong choice.

Pros and Cons Based on Guest Feedback

Best for Which Travellers?

• Couples: The adults-only rooftop pool and spa make it ideal for a romantic spa break. The quiet setting and panoramic views are a plus.
• Families: The garden pool, kids’ pool, children’s play area, and kids’ club keep younger guests entertained. The large rooms with balconies are practical.
• Wellness seekers: The full-service spa, sauna, steam room, and indoor heated pool offer a comprehensive wellness experience.
• Beach holiday makers: Mellieħa Bay Beach is a short walk away, and the hotel’s shuttle service can help with trips to other beaches.

Pricing Band

The Maritim Antonine is positioned as a mid-to-upper-mid-range property within the Mellieħa area. Rates vary significantly by season: low-season rooms may start around €80–€120 per night, while summer rates can reach €180–€250 or more for suites. Breakfast is often an extra €15–€20 per person. Prices are generally consistent with other 4-star superior hotels in Malta.

The bottom line: You get good value for the amenities, especially if you book during shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October).

Location and Getting There

The hotel is located on George Borg Olivier Street, Mellieħa, MLH 1021, Malta. It is about 0.2–0.3 km from the town centre, where you’ll find supermarkets, restaurants, and bus stops. Malta International Airport is 20 km away; the journey by car or taxi takes about 30 minutes. Public bus routes X1, X1A, 41, and 42 stop near the hotel. The hotel offers free public parking (subject to availability) and can arrange airport transfers for a fee.

Alternatives in Malta

For travellers considering other properties, the following alternatives offer similar or different experiences:

• Mellieħa Bay Hotel – a 4-star hotel directly on the beach, with sea views but fewer pool options.
• AX Palazzo Capua in Sliema – a 4-star boutique hotel with a spa, near the ferry to Valletta.
• Corinthia Palace in Attard – a 5-star luxury hotel with extensive gardens, spa, and fine dining.

(Note: The above alternatives are mentioned as examples based on common traveller comparisons; the Maritim Antonine remains the focus of this review.)

Our Pick Recommendation

“This hotel is actually pretty huge, we are talking 3 swimming pools including 1 on the rooftop for adults only which is the true gem of this hotel.”

– Tripadvisor reviewer (concierge/facilities feature), Guest reviewer

“Guests consistently praise the hotel’s cleanliness, spacious rooms, and helpful staff.”

– Trivago editorial summary, Editorial reviewer

Related reading: Akasha Beach Hotel & Spa Review ? Ixora Hotel and Spa Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources Cited

• Expedia – Maritim Antonine
• Trivago – bar and dining details
• HotelsCombined – Wi‑Fi and parking
• Oyster.com – professional review