The Westin Dragonara Resort, Malta

Location

This family-friendly resort hotel is situated in St Julian's, a popular holiday area a few kilometres from Valletta but with direct access to a small sandy cove: a rare arc of gold amid the otherwise rocky coastline of Malta. Its waterfront location is a key attraction, and most visitors will spend at least some time relaxing by the water and enjoying the Mediterranean sunshine at two beach lidos with large swimming pools, children's paddling pools and spacious sundecks.

Accommodation

Accommodation is made up of 340 rooms and suites with the largest deluxe rooms on the island. Heavenly Beds are standard throughout and many rooms feature private balconies - again making the most of those special sea views. Executive Club Rooms include upgraded bathroom amenities, complimentary newspapers and magazines as well as access to the Westin Executive Club Lounge.

Dining

There's a choice of restaurants to suit different tastes and occasions - from the casual atmosphere and decent Italian and Mediterranean fare served in Palio's, to the fresh fish and shellfish at Quadro, one of Malta's most celebrated fine dining restaurants. After eating, there's the option of chancing ones luck at the Dragonara Palace, the island's premier casino, relaxing in the lobby bar or heading straight for that super comfy bed.

Facilities

The hotel has its own on-site dive school, Divewise, offering year-round diving courses to suit all levels. Trips to the wrecks of scuttled Second World War ships and the Blue Hole off Gozo are some of the popular diving locations that can be visited. Or, if you'd rather stay above water, there are kayaks, jet-skis, speedboats and a sailing yacht that can be hired for a spot of coastal exploration.