Shawn went on to explain that “unlike many hotel de-
velopments on the island, this is not just one or two
buildings connected to each other. It was decided not
to go for a high rise setup but to retain the previous
buildings footprint. The whole complex houses one
hundred twenty-one rooms split over seven blocks.
This layout was designed not to have a mass resort
where people walk in and out like a town. On the con-
trary guests are housed in seven buildings spread over
a huge footprint which allows for a tranquil experi-
ence. “The Resort provides sporting facilities which
include two fresh water pools and an indoor pool,
a spa, gym, jacuzzi, two tennis courts – the only 4 Star
Superior hotel to do so,” Shawn proudly points out.
An astounding 5,000 square metre garden enables
the Resort to promote the local biodiversity through-
out its path; a hidden gem that becomes a nesting
ground for a number of birds throughout the year.
The amenities at the Resort include extra touches to
be more environmentally friends. An apt example of
the Urban Valley Resort and Spa:
a Four Star licensed hotel with a Five Star approach
photo: the Junior Suite bathroom zone
this is that two electric vehicles ferry guests from re-
ception to their block: adding comfort and a sense of
uniqueness at the same time. Two team members act
as drivers whilst undertaking other duties. Perhaps
this is not a new to the industry but certainly an in-
novative idea for the island.
Shawn continues to explain that the fact that the chosen
location for the resort is not by the sea was a conscien-
tious choice. Indeed, one could argue that prime real
estate in Kappara, such as that upon which the Resort
is built, is more valuable than shoreline touristic land.
The Resort’s land was originally a mundane holiday
complex and was purchased at commercial rates rather
than at discounted values for hospitality endeavours.
The location lends to the Resort’s mission of being
first and foremost an urban oasis ensconced within
the hustle and bustle of traffic that tourist locations
bring with them; an urban village drenched in com-
fort and tranquillity. And it is a mere stone throw
away from Sliema. Recently, the resort also intro-
duced a complimentary shuttle bus which provides
transfers to Valletta, St. Julian’s and Sliema.
Part of the planning process naturally focused on
the target market. The obvious choice was the lei-
sure market, as the resort and indeed Malta is very
much geared for this segment, however the Resort
has also tapped into the MICE market and has devel-
oped a sizeable Business Centre housing two meeting
rooms, facilitating the accommodation of around
two hundred and ten clients in a theatre-style setup.
Two additional rooms can receive small groups or
serve as breakout rooms.
Another area for consideration was the foreign wed-
dings market which can bring anything between 15 peo-
ple to 200 people – the way accommodation is set up is
perfect to keep the group together, in a specific block,
without bothering others with the possibility of partying
by the group. So a key differentiating factor is that an
entire block can be assigned to a particular function –
HOSPITALITY MALTA
Issue 05
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