Holidays in Malta have been a firm favourite for the British for many years and it is one of the most historic of the Mediterranean islands. Situated at the mid point of the sea that spans from the Middle East through to Spain and just north of Africa, it enjoys an enviable climate with long hot days in summer and mild winters. With its little sisters of Gozo and Comino, it offers an excellent location to enjoy a holiday with lots to see and do on the island.
| Malta offers an excellent location to enjoy a holiday with lots to see and do on the island... |
Malta holidays begin on arrival at the international airport at Luqa. From here all the major resorts are a short transfer away, although many travelling to Gozo will take the helicopter transfer service as opposed to the ferry ride. Flights operate year round from the UK taking around 3 hours although there is a far wider choice of departures in the summer months. The main resorts are Sliema, St Julians Bay, Mellieha, Qawra and Bugibba.
The islands are very dry and the resulting scenery is very beautiful when combined with the stunning architecture. Over the centuries, the island has been an important trading centre and offers one of the world's great natural harbours at Valetta. Therefore, everyone from the Romans to the British has seized control of the island for its important strategic location. You can enjoy historic locations made famous by St Paul, St John from the crusades all way up to locations for modern film blockbusters such as Gladiators and Troy.
Best for...
Couples of all ages who are looking for somewhere different. The island offers great hotels and resorts but relatively few beaches which many families go for. The island is fairly British in its nature, even driving on the left hand side of the road and it really does feel weirdly like home, however the hot sun and Mediterranean air will soon wake you back up and make you realise where you are. The main point is that one day you can lie around by the hotel pool and within minutes you can be deep in a historic town or village enjoying one of the many cultural activities. Malta is also great for long term winter stays and offers great value for money. Summer temperatures often reach the mid 30s with minimal rain. Winter stays above 10 degrees although you can find there are high winds at times, especially in the colder months.
What to do...
There is a wide choice on the island with excellent sports facilities as well as excellent swimming and walks. Taking a boat over to Gozo and Comino offers a chance to relax on the sea. Diving is also highly recommended with excellent scuba dive locations around the islands.
However the real winner is the history and museums that Malta offers. From 7,000 year old Megalithic temples through to the modern day there is plenty to offer the culture vulture. Mdina offers a stunning cathedral in the islands centre as well as the dungeons. There are many 2nd World War sites to visit as well as the Knights of St John.
And the islands have a diverse and regular calendar of cultural events from concerts to galleries and lots of sporting events too, such as the annual marathon. There are festivals throughout the year and great shopping opportunities to be had in the many local markets.
