Steeped in history, tradition and untouched beauty, Malta is a slice of holiday heaven – whether you’re travelling as a family, off on a romantic break for two or taking a solo trip.
Under four hours of travel from Ireland (there are now two routes, from Dublin and Cork) will transport you to a stunning paradise of year-round warm weather, as Malta enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year.
Something for everyone
Although there are many fabulous beaches where you can relax in the sun, from Mellieha Bay to Golden Bay, if you’re looking for more to do than soak up the rays – particularly if you’ve older kids in tow – there is plenty to keep everybody entertained.
The fun-filled ‘Family Trail’ details adventures such as quad bikes in Gozo, a Segway tour around Valletta, the Esplora Interactive Science Centre and Malta 5D – a multi-sensory 3D film with moving seats, air and water blasts.
Then there are the numerous events taking place throughout the year, like the Malta Classic Grand Prix (October 12-13), the Hamrun Chocolate Festival on October 28th, The Three Palaces from November 1 -10th – seven days of beautiful music in Malta’s historical palaces. The Valletta International Baroque Festival, taking place January 10th to 25th 2020 is a series of concerts and opera performances presented in several Baroque buildings in the city of Valletta.
To discover the best of Malta’s bustling food scene, the ‘Gastronomy Trail’ will alert you to the best culinary hotspots, such as Sam Cremoa’s Olive Estate in Wardija where visitors can learn from a genuine olive oil sommelier and indulge in tastings as well as a traditional Maltese lunch; Diar Il-Bniet, a family-run Maltese farm where guests can enjoy the fruits of the vineyards, olive groves and orchards; Ta’Rikardu restaurant on Gozo which offers cheesemaking demonstrations for diners; and the rustic restaurant, Tartarun, in the traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk.
Alive at night
Lastly, don’t miss out on the best bars that Malta has to offer. The ‘Bar Trail’ highlights the vibrant nightlife on the Islands’, including Yard 32 Gin & Tapas Bar in Valletta (which has the largest gin selection on the island), The Hole in the Wall Bar & Pub which is the oldest bar in Sliema and a favourite with locals and travellers alike, or Gleneagles Bar in Gozo, perfect for a sundowner with views over Mgarr Harbour.
Whatever way you experience Malta, you’re guaranteed to want to return again and again. For more information please log on to www.maltaireland.com.
