AX Holdings' Suncrest Hotel in Qawra, Malta's largest four-star, has reopened following a three-month shutdown during which the property was given a facelift.

The lobby, main restaurant and snack bar area have been given a fresh look and some structural modifications made. The works follow last year's €1.2 million refurbishment, which saw the technical plant, selective guest rooms, public areas, kitchen and service areas significantly upgraded.

The lobby now sports a new colour scheme. The fountain in the La Place eatery has been removed in an effort to create more space, while in the Pavillion restaurant new flooring has been laid. The terrace outside the restaurant has also been upgraded.

Joseph Vella was recently named the hotel's new general manager. Given his vast experience in this region of the island's hospitality sector, his brief involves the consolidation of the efforts to strengthen the hotel's concept of vacations ownership. During the shut down, staff at all levels underwent training in customer service and hospitality management, among others issues.

"We have continued to invest in this hotel because of the potential it offers and its popularity,"

AX Holdings' hospitality director Claire Xuereb said. "The hotel still enjoys a high percentage of repeat customers from the Benelux, Germany and UK markets."

The hotel's inauguration was marked with another special occasion: the 16th visit to Malta of Mr and Mrs Corney. The couple, who were warmly welcomed by managers and staff, were the hotel's first guests of the year.