Malta magic
‘‘ Vegetarian and vegan food in Malta has never been more exciting ‘‘
Malta has repeatedly been voted Europe’s top diving destination
LOOKING UP Explore capital city of Valletta smaller sister island of Gozo, try the vegan dishes at Pash & Jimmy Café in St Paul’s Bay or visit Gugar hangout and bar in Valletta, which has a library and art gallery for emerging artists and serves delicious veggie snacks.
Those who enjoy a local tipple are fully catered for. The newly created Wine Trail maps out the ultimate wine-tasting break, highlighting all of Malta and Gozo’s vineyards. The newest is Ta’ Betta, a family-run business offering tours and private tastings from £65. tabetta.com or maltauk.com/winery-trail
An alternative city break
Located across Malta’s Grand Harbour, the three fortified cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua offer a wealth of history and culture as well as an insight into authentic Maltese life.
Undergoing something of a renaissance, the Three Cities are a fantastic alternative city break to Valletta, Malta’s capital and former European Capital of Culture. Just imagine soaking up the year-round sun as you wander the beautiful streets of the cities, enjoying the chilled-out Med vibes and exploring the many churches, cafes and piazzas.
Explore Malta’s golden age
Those with a passion for the past will enjoy discovering the legacy of the
Knights of St John, which is evident everywhere on Malta.
The Knights’ 250-year rule began in Three Cities and Fort St Angelo, before they built the fortified city of Valletta after the Great Siege of 1565. Visitors can learn about the valiant battles that took place and explore the baroque palaces and churches along with the many artistic masterpieces.
As we wait for the world to open up again, armchair travellers can explore Malta’s best historic locations via an interactive map, created with Love Holidays, which highlights its most beautiful and culturally important locations. loveholidays.com/holidays/ best-cultural-locations-inmalta
Dive in
Repeatedly voted Europe’s top diving destination, Malta’s clear blue waters boast an abundance of reefs, caverns and caves.
There are special dive trails around the archipelago designed for beginner and advanced divers, and an additional 12 historic wreck sites have been added to its diving map. travel.padi.com
Whet your appetite for adventures in the deep with The Virtual Museum – Underwater Malta website, which is now live.
Using 3D models and virtual reality, the museum project features 10 underwater heritage sites with detailed descriptions and videos. underwatermalta.org
Cycle the sights
Whizzing along the craggy edges of Malta’s west coast offers holidaymakers the chance to see the natural wonders of the Blue Grotto sea caverns and the dramatic Dingli Cliffs, Malta’s highest point.
Pedal power is an exhilarating way to explore Gozo.
Take in the 360-degree views from the top of the citadel fortification in Victoria, before visiting the UNESCO world heritage site Ggantija Temples – the oldest free-standing temples in the world. Bike rental at begreenmalta.net
Action-packed adventures
Expect towering cliffs, jagged hillsides and stunning views as you explore the wild side of the Maltese islands.
Thrillseekers can pre-arrange an outdoor adrenaline rush with MC Adventures, which offers a range of hair-raising activities including abseiling, freefalling and ziplining. mcadventure.com.mt
Taking to
the water
For souls who love the sea but are not yet ready for a full diving experience, there is year-round warm water and excellent visibility for snorkelling
UNSPOILT San Blas on Gozo
A warm welcome
TASTY Michelinstarred
Noni
in the azure shallows of Blue Lagoon, on sister island Comino. Visitors who yearn to swim further out can charter a boat.
The Maltese archipelago has retained its top spot on the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Index for five years running and is set to host Europe’s biggest gay pride event, EuroPride, in 2023. Malta is proud of its inclusivity and introduced gender-neutral passports in 2018. Its welcoming mindset is celebrated in style each September at Malta Pride.