I love a spa day!
Life is so busy these days it's such a treat to be able to turn off, relax and enjoy a little pampering. Holidays can be hectic too, I always pack in as much as I can and often end up feeling a little frazzled.
Thankfully, Malta offers a spectacular array of spa day options - my absolute favourite - Le Grand Spa at the beautiful Excelsior Grand Hotel in Valletta.
I always treat myself to a spa day in Malta during my winter visits, but this is something you can also enjoy all year round.
Spa day prices in the UK are eyewatering since the pandemic, but in Malta you receive so much more for so much less.
During my recent visit to Le Grand Spa I chose to indulge in one of the splendid Afternoon Tea and Spa Packages on offer, and it was utterly heavenly, from start to finish.
There were three options to choose from,
Firstly the Chamomile Package. This package includes full access to the lavish Spa facilities comprising indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, and steam room. You can lounge in your Spa Kit, a plush bathrobe, towel, and slippers, then indulge with a delightful afternoon tea accompanied by a sparkling glass of bubbles, all complemented by the convenience of complimentary parking and Wi-Fi access. All of this for just €50 per person
Or elevate your experience to the Peppermint Package, which I happily did as it offered such great value, this included all of the above plus a 30-minute treatment of your choice. All for the amazing price of just €70 per person
The top package is the Wild Berries Package, which includes again all of the above plus two 30-minute treatments of your choosing along with a private 30-minute session in the Jacuzzi. Just €120 per person.
(Alternative options are also available)
After registering and changing (there are lockers and a wonderfully equipped changing room) I spent a relaxing hour lounging by the indoor pool reading before I was whisked away and treated to the most blissful facial I have ever experienced. My therapist was wonderful, so professional and friendly, I was literally on cloud nine when I floated back out of the treatment room.
I lingered a while in the relaxing lounge area enjoying an equally relaxing cup of chamomile tea, then enjoyed some time in the steam room and sauna before heading back to my lounger by the indoor pool.
That's when I noticed that the sunshine had appeared. It had been one of those grey sky, windy mornings when I set out, but as I've learned over the 4 decades of visiting the islands, the weather can change extremely quickly.
I asked the lovely reception team if I could boost my vitamin C levels and spend a little time by the outside pool instead, which they were delighted for me to do.
The views from here are breath-taking and as it was off season, the pool area was serenely quiet, allowing me to fully appreciate the tranquillity whilst lapping up those gorgeously warming winter sun rays. All accompanied by a beautiful and rather generous serving of fizz from the Tiki Bar.
I remained here until the sun started to dip and my table reservation for afternoon tea neared.
The afternoon tea is a treat in itself, served in the rather decadent Harbour View Bar with its plush classical furnishings, dazzling chandeliers, and mesmerising views of the pool area, and Marsamxett Harbour.
All diets are catered for, I'm Gluten Free and the selection served was delicious.
If this is something you'd like to do, I'd strongly recommend that you book ahead. By doing so you can guarantee the availability, and also book in your preferred treatment and table times, thus ensuring you make the most of your day and at your own pace.
Response to emails is speedy and the booking process is really easy with payment taken on the day.
I simply can't recommend this self treat enough, it's incredible value, and the staff and therapists are simply wonderful, trust me you'll thoroughly enjoy every minute.
Contact - spa@excelsior.com.mt
Location - Excelsior Grand Hotel Great Siege Road, Floriana, Malta, FRN1810.