Malta

Malta - A clear stand out

Like a 3D magic eye image, discovering Malta requires visitors to vary their perspective.

Malta is best known for its mediterranean landscape and dramatic coastline. Bursting to life off glossy brochures are transparent waters that lap ragged shores and world famous rock formations. A day trip to the legendary Camino Island will leave you spellbound by its raw-natural beauty.

The numerous bays provide the perfect opportunity for bathing and taking in the fresh salt air. The many boulevards and walking trails allow for more active exploration, including the vertigo inducing Dingli Cliffs.

The historic walled cities offer their own unique perspectives into a richly layered past. Walking across the moat and through the defensive gate into the ancient capital of Mdina, one feels as though the limestone walls are closing in to hide a whispered secret.

The vibrant capital of Valletta, with its stretching pedestrian boulevards decorated by colourful Maltese balconies, has to be one of Europe’s best kept secrets. Across the harbour and an easy ferry ride away are the ‘Three Cities’, each offering their own unique character and charm.

Take a step back even further through the kaleidoscope of Malta’s history to gain a clearer insight into this rewarding destination. The National War Museum chronicles Malta’s prehistoric past through to the Roman conquest and tells the tale of the county’s integral role through the Crusades and World Wars.

One of the most exclusive museums is the Hypogeum, a burial site that predates the pyramids by a thousand years. Its red ochre wall paintings and beautifully carved features provide a spine tingling experience to those fortunate enough to see it up close.

Scratch beneath the surface and discover Malta’s warm and generous people. This manifests itself in spectacular fashion during one of the many street festivals that take place during the year. Events often celebrate a patron saint and are marked by marching bands, religious processions, special Masses and fireworks.

Malta’s restaurant and bar scene continue to evolve along with a resurgence in organic wine production. Local dishes such as the addictive pastizzi, traditionally filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas are dangerously cheap. A local delicacy, the rabbit stew, is traditionally eaten by hand and is finger licking good.

The island nation has served as a microcosm for regional and global events, often characterised by the long list of successors who once controlled it. Through all of this Malta has forged a strong national identity that embraces its vibrant history and now stands out as a must-see destination.