Impressive history, a fantastic culture mix and very friendly people…this is the essence of Malta. La bonne vivante spent an amazing weekend on this diverse island!
A bit more than a two-hour flight from Zurich, Malta is a perfect get away for a mini break. Due to its southern Mediterranean location, temperatures stay up high through most of autumn and it is an ideal location to escape from Northern European damp-cold November drizzle.
La bonne vivante has packed up our recommendations on Malta’s most historic sights, most fabulous restaurants and smartest hotels. Malta offers a great variety of activities for every type of traveler. Want to sun worship? Check. See loads of ancient sites and museums? Check. Dive incredible wrecks? Check
La Bonne Vivante put together a compact travel medley for you.
Sights & Culture:
Mdina
In medieval times Mdina was called Cittá Notabile – the Noble City as this was the preferred residence of the Maltese aristocracy. Today it is called the silent city. With its golden stone walls, medieval buildings and patios Mdina emanates a dreamy, unreal charm. It is best to be visited in the late afternoon when the flocks of tourists have left.. As it hosts a few very good restaurants this is also a great place to come to for dinner.
Valletta
The capital of Malta is a historic gem. It was ruled successively by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and the Order of the Knights of St John. With 320 monuments it has been named a Unesco World Heritage.
Diving:
Malta and Gozo can boast a nice selection of dive spots, amongst them some of the best Mediterranian wreck dives. La bonne vivante can recommend the Um el Faroud ship wreck close to the Blue Grotto. The wreck is well preserved and a 15 minute swim from the shore.
P29 is another wreck which has become a popular dive site.
If you have more time or want to devote an entire day to diving, travel to Gozo and dive at the Blue hole.
Dive Systems is a professional dive center with friendly, competent staff.
Tower Point – Exiles Tower Road, Sliema SLM 1601, Malta +356 2131 9123, www.divesystemsmalta.com
Relax:
If there is one thing that Malta doesn’t have in plenty it is sandy beaches. Most of the beaches you will come across are either rocky or there is simply no beach at all. Amerie bay in the north of the island offers a small but sandy stretch of beach with Caribbean like, turquoise waters and a beautiful view of the island of Gozo. Spend a relaxing afternoon at Baia’s , Malta’s chicest beach club and relax with a glas of something sparkling. www.baiabeachclub.com/
Restaurants:
Medina in Mdina offers one of the most romantic settings in an ancient building. In the summer, book a table on the beautiful patio and indulge in fresh, innovative Mediterranean cuisinewww.medinarestaurantmalta.com
Barracuda is a popular seafood restaurant in St. Julian. The picturesque setting with a view on Saint Julian’s harbor and friendly service make this a convenient choice if you are staying in St. Julien, 194 Tower Road, Sliema, Malta +356 2133 1817
Do Brazil offers Churascos of meat or fish. With large portions and a salad bar Do Brazil caters comfort food and offers a large cocktail menu. www.themarinarestaurants.com
Where to stay:
The Meridian in St.Julian offers a beautiful sea view, modern infrastructure, a roof top pool and friendly staff. This is also a good choice for families.
Main Street, St Julian’s STJ1017, Malta +356 2311 0000, www.lemeridienmalta.com
The Westin Dragonara in Sliema is another good choice with direct access to the ocean and a spacious pool area.
St Julian’s, Malta +356 2138 1000, www.westinmalta.com/