Nine reasons why Malta should be your next holiday destination
When it comes to planning the perfect holiday, the answer is closer than you might think.
Just three hours from the UK and with direct flights from 18 regional airports, Malta is the year-round Mediterranean destination that truly delivers.
And with over 300 days of sunshine a year, some of the best beaches to be found anywhere in Europe and a calendar full of world-class festivals and events, it's no wonder even those who return to this ancient archipelago say, 'There's always more to explore.'
Lying just off the coast of Sicily, Malta enjoys a location in the heart of the Mediterranean. With around 200km of dazzling coastline, it's also home to no fewer than 12 Blue Flag beaches, meaning you'll never have to travel far to find a picture-perfect place to roll out your beach towel.
The 800m-long Mellieħa Bay on Malta's northwest coast is perfect for families and watersports enthusiasts, while those looking for an inviting cove to snooze the afternoon away should head to Għajn Tuffieħa Bay. Quite simply, there's a stretch of sand for almost every type of holidaymaker.
And with Europe's warmest average temperatures, mild winter weather and over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, beach visits are always an option, whenever you visit.
Malta's fascinating history has made the archipelago something of a living museum, with ancient temples, time-stamped alleyways and Medieval fortresses waiting to be explored.
A more modern curiosity is the iconic red telephone boxes scattered around the islands, among the few reminders of British governance.
The entire capital of Valletta, built by the Knights of St John in the 16th century, has been designated a Unesco World Heritage Site. And the 'Silent City'of Mdina – car-free and home to just 240 residents – is the perfect place to discover thousands of years of history.
Head to St John's Co-Cathedral to marvel at the glittering gold interior and Caravaggio's masterpiece, The Beheading of John the Baptist. At more than 5m wide, it was the largest painting he ever produced.
And don't miss the chance to wander through the ruins of the jaw-dropping Ħal-Saflieni Hypogeum (book well in advance for this) and the Megalithic temple complex at Ġgantija in Gozo.
Malta has a reputation as one of the best diving destinations in Europe.
It has more than 120 underwater sites to explore, including shipwrecks, the remains of a WWII submarine, and breathtaking reefs.
Offering a wide choice of shore and boat dives, there's something to suit divers of all abilities, and anyone over age 10 can attain recognised diving qualifications.
Malta enjoys a packed cultural calendar full of festivals, exhibitions and local celebrations. Even international artists come to get in on the action.
The village festas season runs from May to September, and sees local communities host public feasts and lavish fireworks displays to celebrate patron saints.
Drop in for the Isle of MTV Malta Music Festival, Europe's biggest free music festival which takes place in June or July. Come in October and experience Notte Bianca, when Valletta's streets, piazzas, churches, palaces and museums are transformed into venues for free live performances and concerts.
In December, the island becomes a magical wonderland full of festive events, with children's workshops, dance performances and enchanting Christmas lights illuminating Valletta's streets.
Even if you haven't visited Malta before, it may feel familiar thanks to the starring role the islands have played in some of Hollywood's biggest movies.
Valletta doubled as ancient Rome in Ridley Scott's Gladiator, and Mdina became King's Landing in Game of Thrones. The islands also provided the backdrop for Brad Pitt blockbusters Troy and World War Z.
With no fewer than seven Michelin-starred restaurants, Malta has earned a reputation as a gastronomic capital.
The local cuisine is a delicious mix of Arabic, Mediterranean, French and British influences, with fresh seafood on almost every menu.
Traditional dishes include rustic pastizzi – flaky filo-style pastry filled with ricotta or mushy peas – and hearty stews and pies.
You can learn about traditional brewing methods at the Farsons Brewery in Birkirkara, and discover award-winning Maltese wines, rarely exported outside the islands.
Fancy swerving the sun lounger and getting the pulse racing instead? Malta is a thrill-seeker's paradise.
Locals call this place 'The Rock'' because of the steep coastal cliffs, deep-cut valleys and high ridges that delight climbers.
More than 50 hiking and cycling trails across Malta, Gozo, and Camino take you along the cliffs, down country lanes and through picturesque villages.
Or tackle the Xterra Gozo Trail Run, which follows a coast-hugging 50km path that takes you right around the island.
Perhaps a spot of stand-up paddleboard meditation, an outdoor gym session or some clifftop yoga is for you.
Malta offers some of the world's most idyllic natural beauty spots to rejuvenate in, as well as top-class spas with indoor pools, saunas, hammam baths and steam rooms.
You could easily build a trip dedicated entirely to wellness, or just pop into one of the island's luxury hotels for a pampering session between all the adventuring and outdoor activities.
Malta has a growing number of eco-certified hotels – from three to five stars – across the island.
Look for the green leaf symbol when booking your accommodation: the official mark to show that the hotel is environmentally friendly and has been certified by the Malta Tourism Authority.
It means that the hotel has committed to initiatives including energy efficiency, waste reduction and sustainable sourcing, with restaurants focusing on local produce.
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