Last Updated on Wednesday, 7 February, 2024 at 12:52 pm by Andre Camilleri
An important development for the Cottonera region
International hospitality brand IBB Hotel Collection has recently opened a new hotel in Vittoriosa Malta – IBB Hotel Palazzo Bettina Malta. A historic boutique hotel right in the heart of the Three Cities, also known as the Cottonera region, the IBB Hotel Palazzo Bettina features 13 luxuriously furnished rooms. This is the third hotel that the IBB Hotels brand has added to the Cottonera region, with Cugó Gran Vittoriosa set to open its doors later in 2024 and Cugó Gran Macina being the go-to boutique hotel in the area.
The hotel offers elegantly appointed rooms and suites that boast modern amenities and stylish decor, providing a serene retreat for travelers. Guests can indulge in an exquisite breakfast, where skilled chefs craft delectable dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Additionally, IBB Hotel Palazzo Bettina offers a rooftop pool and jacuzzi, allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate. The attentive and professional staff is committed to delivering personalized service, creating a memorable and enjoyable stay for every visitor.
The unique environment at the hotel is created by the thoroughly restored architectural details and the beautiful surrounding marina. The rooms combine ancient with modern and offer an optimal stay both for guests looking for a luxury historical dwelling with a certain flair and for those searching for an elegant, modern, and progressive solution. The hotel, which has expanded the IBB Hotel Collection brand portfolio to a total of 8 hotels, features a large panoramic terrace, complete with a swimming pool, solarium and jacuzzi, overlooking the beautiful marina. The convenient location of the hotel is only a boat ride away from the capital city of Malta, Valletta.
“We are delighted to have brought the IBB Hotel Collection experience to Malta. The hotel marks the third property in this vibrant Mediterranean island destination, having opened the Cugó Gran Macina back in 2018 and with Cugó Gran Vittoriosa set to open its doors later in 2024,” said Samuel Santos, CEO at IBB Hotel and Cugó Gran Collection. “We wanted to offer yet another unique environment steeped in history in this beautiful part of the island and can’t wait to share an unforgettable experience with all our guests.”
Palazzo Bettina: A palazzo steeped in history
The hotel is steeped in history and its restoration has been carried out with true passion. The building appears to date back to the 17th century and has a long and varied history serving as a residence for several distinguished individuals and families, in particular, Elizabeth Muscat Dorell (1741-1829), known as Lady Bettina, who also gave her name to the building. The palazzo also served as a British military hospital in the second half of the 19th century and St Ġorġ Preca, the founder of the Society of Christian Doctrine. The Third Order Carmelite also made use of the property as one of the seats for the Society of Christian Doctrine in the inter war years.
In 2017, Palazzo Bettina was purchased by the Sormani family, who were charmed by the history of the building. With the extensive experience in recovering and renovating ancient buildings with the objective of returning them to their original splendour, they undertook this new adventure. The result of the investment can be seen in the complete renovation of the building, transformed into a luxury boutique hotel. Bought in 2023 by Bettina Investments Limited, the restoration of the Palazzo was completed back in the summer of 2021 and included the creation of 13 rooms fitted with every possible comfort and luxury.
