Travel Review: Enjoy the magic of Malta

It’s never been easier to head to the historic Mediterranean island, and there’s plenty to do while you’re there

There is also great value on offer, especially in the out-of-season months of March to June and September to November, with temperatures in November usually around 17-18 degrees.

There are now two new direct routes from Belfast International Airport to Malta. Visitors will now be able to fly with Jet2 (one flight a week) and with Ryanair (two flights a week).

The Jet2 route is the first time that the airline has operated to Malta from Northern Ireland. The Ryanair route is in addition to the direct routes the airline has from Dublin and Shannon airports.

Interior of St John’s Co-Cathedral

What to do

Built between 1573 and 1577 by Girolamo Cassar, St John’s Co-Cathedral used to be the conventual church of the Order of St John. Unlike the rather severe exterior, the interior is sumptuous with coloured marble tombstones, frescoes and numerous treasure-filled chapels. The Beheading of St John, Caravaggio’s masterpiece, lies in the Oratory and is must-see for anyone interested in art.

You can get a dghajsa (a gondola-shaped boat) from the Valletta Waterfront over to the Three Cities. The dghajsa, with its traditional craftsmanship and ornate designs, is an integral part of Malta’s cultural identity and continues to be used as a means of transportation.

The Three Cities (consisting of Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua) offer an intriguing insight into Malta and its history. Left largely unvisited, these cities are a slice of authentic life as well as a glimpse into Malta’s maritime fortunes. Their harbour inlets have been in use since Phoenician times.

The Dingli Cliffs are Malta’s natural fortress, one bastion the Knights did not have to build to protect themselves. From the cliff tops, one of the most striking views and sheerest drops is just west of Dingli village. Another atmospheric view is over to the uninhabited isle of Filfla. There is also the tiny chapel of St Mary Magdalene, which is perched at the edge and marks the highest point on the Maltese Islands, some 250 metres above sea level.

Mdina, also known as the Silent City, was Malta’s first capital city during the time of the Knights of Malta, and also a colonial settlement of Imperial Rome. Its mix of medieval and Baroque architecture, fortified walls and its strategic location on high grounds make it one of the most enchanting places on the island.

Staying there

The five-star Corinthia San George’s Hotel is situated at the water’s edge in St George’s Bay and is a majestic spectacle overlooking the entrance to the wide, sweeping bay. With stunning, panoramic views over the sparkling Mediterranean and a spacious stepped lido, the hotel is the perfect place to enjoy the glorious Maltese sunshine. A haven for water sports fans and diving enthusiasts, as well as those desiring a more restful retreat.

Tuck in

Of course, after a busy day of sightseeing and activities, you’ll need some nourishment. Luckily, you’re in Malta — home to an abundance of outstanding produce and places to eat. Wigi’s Kitchen, located in the heart of Balluta Bay, specialises in the traditional Mediterranean cuisine.

Don Berto restaurant is located in one of the oldest cities in Malta, Vittoriosa, and is a fast casual and family-friendy restaurant specialising in Mediterranean food.

The Chophouse in Sliema boasts a tempting selection of succulent steaks, other meats, daily grilled fish and vegan options.

The Medina Restaurant uses local ingredients which underpin well-executed dishes which exhibit subtle modern twists. With a sublime view of the crystal waters of the Mediterranean, Il-Kartell in Gozo remains something of a local cornerstone in the world of dining and leisure.

Island hopping

Though separated from mainland Malta by a mere 5km stretch of sea (25 minutes by the Gozo Channel Ferry from Malta (www.gozochannel.com/) this island is distinctly different. Gozo (which means joy) is a third the size of Malta, more rural and much more tranquil. Known for its picturesque scenery, pristine coastline and untouched country trails, Baroque churches rise from the heart of small villages, and traditional farmhouses dot the rural landscape. Its culture and way of life are rooted in tradition and yet open to the present.

Ir-Rabat (or Victoria) is the capital city of the island and includes the Citadel, the ancient fortified city at the centre of Gozo, and the surrounding town old Rabat (meaning, ‘suburb’ in Arabic and Archaic Maltese) and its modern additions. The Citadel, dominating the heights above Victoria, has impressive battlements. It has been the centre of activity since Neolithic times. It also has the only Cathedral within the island that is without a dome and today most of the old houses and palaces in the Citadel have been restored and converted into museums and shops.

Ramla Bay on Gozo is a wonderful place to swim, snorkel and chill out in the sun. The area around the beach is wonderfully undeveloped, although there are a couple of cafés and a stall set back from the beach. The sand dunes are protected and the valley leading down to the bay is green and fertile. The terraced walls built by the farmers give the valley an appearance of a quilt when viewed from surrounding high ground.

Anyone interested in diving needs to visit the Blue Hole, an internationally acclaimed diving spot. This vertical chimney, which Jacques Cousteau himself once earmarked as one of his top 10 diving spots in the world, is a must for every serious diver. Another great spot is Fungus Rock — or the General’s Rock — which stands out prominently as a little islet.

Visit www.visitmalta.com for further information