When we think of summer, we think of days spent under the scorching sun in Malta as we dig our feet into the hot sand at a quiet beach with an ice-cold drink in hand.
What better place is there to experience this than on an island right at the heart of the Mediterranean Sea?
Even though there are still many around the world who have yet to hear about Malta, its warm climate and laid back lifestyle make it the ideal summer holiday destination.
With a history dating back to the Megalithic times, there’s always something to discover as you get lost in its narrow winding roads and immerse yourself in its colourful culture.
And there’s so much more to it!
Here are 5 main reasons why Malta is your destination for your summer vacation this year.
Endless sunshine and blue horizons in Malta
There’s a reason why people call our island ‘Sunny Malta’.
It has been statistically proven that we get over 300 days of sunshine each year which will surely provide you with all the Vitamin D you need for the season, not to mention that tan you’ve been eagerly waiting all winter for!
You won’t have to worry about packing – all you have to do is toss in your favourite T-shirts, tanks tops and shorts into your hand luggage and you’re sorted. And make sure you don’t forget your swimsuit and flip flops – you’re going to need them whilst exploring all the beaches that line the island’s coast.
Whether you’re a windsurfer, a diver or a casual sunbather, you’ll surely find a place that will satisfy the experience you want from your holiday. It doesn’t even matter what type of beach you prefer. The variety of landscapes in Malta unimaginable, starting from picturesque golden or red sandy hotspots such as Golden Bay or Għadira Bay in the north of Malta. Then there are the hidden rocky inlets, like St Peter’s Pool at the southernmost point of the island, perfect for any explorers out there looking for a quiet snorkelling location.
More often than not, you’ll find a number of shacks, cafes or restaurants where you can enjoy a satiating meal or cocktail as the sun sets on the horizon. But if there’s nothing of the sort, there will surely be an ice-cream truck lurking about somewhere!
Whichever the case, one thing’s for certain – you’ll be met with inviting azure waters that tempt even the most hydrophobic of individuals.
Island hopping from Malta
Speaking of crystal clear waters, you can’t say you’ve truly experienced Malta if you don’t visit the Blue Lagoon. This natural wonder is situated in Comino, the smallest of the three isles that make up the Maltese archipelago.
That’s right, Malta is only one of the islands you’ll get to explore during your visit!
Comino stands right in the middle of the channel between Malta and the peaceful island of Gozo, home to no more than 40,000 Gozitans. This isle holds some of the most verdant areas that can be found within the archipelago as a whole. While Malta and Gozo have some noticeable similarities in terms of lifestyle, Gozo has a more laid back atmosphere, so much so that the Maltese seek it as a vacation spot every now and again.
Even here, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches as well as viewpoints that boast unparalleled views such as the Tal-Mixta Cave at Ramla Bay in Xgħara. There’s no better way to spend your time on this island than renting a quad bike with your friends and family as you immerse yourself in its story and heritage by visiting all the heritage sites that exist here.
A Maltese rich culture with an even richer history
The Maltese Islands have been dubbed as one massive open-air museum and it’s no wonder considering the profound history that each city, street or corner embodies.
Whichever locality you find yourself in rest assured that you’ll come across countless shrines as well as spectacular chapels and churches, the architecture of which is a thing of admiration. Apart from being a symbol of the islands’ Catholic traditions, these structures dating back centuries represent the people’s resilience through generations of colonisation.
From the Turks to the Italians and the English, our ancestors have seen it all. Their influence lives on in our national language as well as the awe-inspiring buildings that make up our cities, especially Malta’s old capital of Mdina as well as the current capital, Valletta.
Walking down one of their streets is a historic tour in itself but there are a plethora of tours and museums for you to explore as well, the most impressive of which being the Megalithic temples, like Ħaġar Qim or Ġgantija.
Heartwarming gastronomical delights at Malta
Now, one cannot speak about culture without mentioning food. Eating is one of our passions here in Malta so you can only imagine what culinary delights await you!
Inspired by the traditions of those who occupied it over the centuries, the Maltese cuisine is an intermix of Mediterranean cooking with the added touch of locally grown and produced products.
Most of our traditional delicacies are seasonal but there a some all year favourites which you should definitely look out for like our rabbit stew, lampuki pie (fish pie), and UNESCO recognised Maltese ftira. And that’s not all. If you’re a cheese lover, you have to try out our ġbejna (goat cheese) which is used in a lot of our dishes and you cannot surely miss out on our one-of-a-kind pastizzi (flaky pastry stuffed with ricotta or peas)!
Malta is also famous for its local wines with vineyards covering most of the land in our countryside. There’s no better way to spend your afternoon than going on a wine tasting session and taking at one of the many wine estates we have on offer.
Conclusion
So, if what you’re looking for this summer is a place to make the most of the pleasures this season brings, Malta is clearly your ideal destination.
And when you book your stay with St Hotels you will have your own designated guide who will point you in the right direction so you make the most out of your summer vacation!
