When it comes to choosing a summer holiday, there are so many amazing European locations to choose from. With perennial favourites such as Spain and Greece getting busier each year, many people are now looking around for other alternatives that avoid the crowds and offer an authentic experience. Enter Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean that offers stunning unspoilt landscapes alongside plenty of history and culture.
So why should you skip the crowds and opt for the serenity of Malta this summer? We take a look.
Enjoy a slower pace of life
Whilst there is nightlife around for those who want it on Malta, typically the island operates a slightly slower pace of life than the bustling Spanish or Greek resorts such as Marbella or Kavos. Slow doesn’t mean boring, however – there’s plenty to keep you occupied in Malta.
From discovering the delights of Valletta (the smallest capital city in Europe, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to the Ġgantija temples, which pre-date the Pyramids of Egypt, you won’t be bored. Malta is actually made up of both the main island of Malta and the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino, so make sure you leave adequate time to visit them all.
Sample amazing food
Maltese food is like no other, thanks to its location. A tasty mix of Italian flavours and North African cuisine, you’ll love sampling all the dishes on offer at the local street markets and restaurants. From Maltese bread to fresh fish, from rabbit stews to ‘Widow’s soup’, there’s sure to be something that takes the fancy of every member of your party.
If you’re planning to get out and about a lot, it’s well worth venturing to the local markets early and picking up some of the freshly made bread and pastizzi, a grab-and-go snack that is formed of flaky, moist pastry and a ricotta cheese or pea filling. Pair with some in-season fruit and a refreshing bottle of local alcohol or juice for the perfect explorer’s lunchbox.
The weather and Malta’s location mean that there is plenty of choice when it comes to food, so vegans, vegetarians and meat eaters will all be happy. And of course, everyone will want to get their share of the sweet treats available for dessert.
There’s plenty of beach options
If you’re someone who loves nothing more than stretching out on the beach with a good book or podcast on holiday, then you won’t be short of options in Malta. From the Blue Lagoon at Comino to the ever-popular Mellieħa Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa and Golden Bay, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
The weather remains mild into the early autumn, so have no fear if you’re looking at travelling towards the end of the summer. With average highs of 28℃, and an average sea temperature of 26℃ in September, you’ll be able to enjoy the beaches even outside of the school holiday period.
Why not take a chance on this smaller European gem this summer and see if Malta becomes your new favourite destination?
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