Gay Open House: Marvelous Malta
What’s not to love about the beautiful Mediterranean island of Malta – one of the first countries in the world to have made LGBTQ+ rights equal at a constitutional level.
It has proudly held first place for the last nine years on the ILGA Europe Rainbow Index which ranks countries on LGBTQ+ equality. Go Malta! There is much to explore, from the capital and historic harbor town of Valletta to the famous blue grotto and the nearby islands of Gozo and Camino. This historic isle is not only a haven of acceptance, but also home to some incredible real estate.
This month’s feature takes us on a luxury real estate tour of this magical island from a historic gem with sea views in the heart of Old Town Birga to a contemporary marina view apartment in popular Gzira and a stunning 17th century Palazzo in Lija. We team up again with Welshman Rhodri Ellis Owen and Canadian Jameson Farn at LGBTQ Real Estate to bring you some of the finest real estate on the planet. Based in the south of France, but covering properties all over Europe, the guys at LGBTQ Real Estate pride themselves on their VIP level of personal service which is always delivered without prejudice. The business is dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ sellers, buyers and their friends to find their perfect property match.
Gzira, Malta 525,000 EUR
This recently built 1-Bed, 2-Bath, designer furnished apartment in Gzira’s marina enjoys unobstructed stunning views of the Gzira creek, Manuel Island and Valletta. This property is on the 4th floor of a building located right on the seafront with many tourist attractions and all the amenities one might need literally on your doorstep.
The perfect rental investment and sold fully-furnished Accommodation is spread over approximately 67m2 and comprises an entrance hall, guest WC with shower, open plan fitted kitchen, dining, and living area (complete with comfortable wall-mounted pull down double bed) leading to two balconies, one of which has a table and chairs, ideal for entertaining and a double bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe and shower en-suite.
Birga, Malta 2,888,000 EUR
Set within one of Birgu’s oldest buildings dating from the early 1500s, when the village became the first seat of the Order of St. John in Malta, is this beautiful House Of Character tucked away in the heart of the ancient hamlet of Birgu. The house was sensitively restored to its former glory by the present owner into a family residence, having also an MTA license as a Guest House.
The property features four well-appointed suites that open a window into a unique hospitality concept, where East and West are harmoniously balanced. One is welcomed into the traditional Maltese architectural features that are offset amidst eclectic antiques, which the owners collected during their travels and over time. An imposing spiral staircase dominates the courtyard and leads all the way up to the roof level.
The first floor level accommodates two double bedrooms, the first suite, in the former ‘Camera Nobile’, features a private alcove with a double bed, and a unique balcony looking onto the cozy street and measuring about 50 sqm. The second is a 40 sqm twin suite with a cozy living quarter bedecked with one-of-a-kind antique furnishings and a show-stopping Maltese chandelier.
The roof level is an oasis of peace where one can relax, while on the upper roof one can enjoy views of the marina, and city views all the way to Valletta and the Grand Harbor. A hidden gem for those looking for a grand home in a historical city or someone looking for a boutique hotel ready to operate.
Lija, Malta Price on Application
Fancy the idea of owning a 17th Century Palazzo? The tranquil melody of birdsong and the gentle rustle of trees welcome you as you step into the charming paved courtyard. Recently renovated and transformed into a residence fit for royalty, this stunning property of 750m2 boasts beautifully manicured gardens on one end, complete with ample seating areas, and an enchanting citrus grove on the other with a total external area of 2000m2.
Nestled within the prestigious village of Lija, at the heart of the island, this Palazzo offers unparalleled privacy, surrounded by high perimeter walls, while being conveniently close to all amenities and coveted for its distinguished properties.
Meticulously designed to meet the demands of modern living while preserving the captivating features of traditional Maltese homes including vaulted ceilings, wooden beams, fireplaces, and stone stairwells. A formal dining room, separate living area, and a designer kitchen extend onto a delightful terrace overlooking the gardens and the inviting swimming pool area. The ground floor also features a grand 140 sqm space, known as ‘The Great Room’, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views of the Formal Garden, ideal for banquets and large gatherings.
The property boasts an array of modern amenities, including solar panels, chemical-free mosquito management, insulation, underfloor heating, smart home KNX system, video surveillance, and prestigious marble and travertine floors, making it truly exceptional – a residence of unparalleled charm and luxury.
For more information on these properties in Malta or any other possible options on the island, connect with Rhodri at: rhodri@polariusrealestate.com.
