A palatial, sprawling building hewn from the local, golden-toned limestone, the Kempinski San Lawrenz functions as a small resort, combining 137 rooms and 10 long-stay apartments, several swimming pools, tennis and squash courts, and spa. The overall design feels Moroccan-inspired; palm trees decorate the gardens, while the reception area is next to a high-ceilinged inner courtyard dotted with plants and low slung sofas. But the main design influences are actually Maltese; the signature restaurant, L'Ortolan, references a traditional farmhouse, with its wooden-beamed ceilings and wrought-iron chandeliers. A family-friendly destination, it is big enough not to feel overrun by excitable children and there are plenty of quiet corners to relax in.
We love the relaxed environment, unhurried pace of life, and friendly interaction with local people. Gozo is much smaller than Malta, and feels much less frenetic.
The hotel is in a peaceful location just outside San Lawrenz, a short drive to the nearest beach and Gozo's capital.
By plane: flights to Malta from London take 3 hours 15 mins; flights from Manchester take 3 hours 35 mins. It's a 50-minute drive from the airport to Cirkewwa, from where the ferry crossing to Gozo takes 25 minutes. Free parking on-site. skyscanner.net
Ideal for families, couples, even business travellers; it has a relaxed and laidback vibe while still being part of an upmarket brand. The decent-sized swimming pool areas and the efficiency of the staff both impress.
It's great that there is so much on offer here, but there is strong competition from the sights and experiences you'll find on Gozo. Essentially, here you have the best of both worlds - a good hotel with easy access to the rest of the island.
- Bar
- Two restaurants
- Swimming pools
- Shuttle service
- Gym
- Spa
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
The Grand Deluxe rooms are located on the higher floors and are more spacious, light and airy. We love that there's a good and regularly topped up supply of tea, coffee and milk.
Standard Room, Deluxe Room, Grand Deluxe Room, Junior Suite, Deluxe Junior Suite, Country View Suite, Executive Suite, Two Bedroom Family Suite, One Bedroom Apartment, Two Bedroom Apartment, Three Bedroom Apartment
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom, tea and coffee facilities, desk, TV, free Wi-Fi
The breakfast buffet is simply sumptuous and not to be missed, with a vast array of fresh fruit, juices, cheeses, charcuterie, baked goods and pastries, cooked eggs and more. The 'Gozo Gbjena' at L'Ortolan is a sweet version of a local sheeps' cheese, filled with a sorbet-like pear gel, and served with organic lemon oil and pistachios.
L'Ortolan: international and European-influenced flavours, buffet and à la carte breakfasts. Open daily for breakfast and Fri-Mon for dinner.
Il-Baldakkin Lounge: casual dining, sandwiches, pasta, steaks. Mains from €19. Open daily 10am-11pm.
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