Your go-to guide for a break away in Malta

Planning a little trip? Whether it’s a solo break, a romantic weekend away or a girlie getaway, Malta is one spot you should be considering this year.

Only three and a half hours from Dublin Airport, you’ll land into the most scenic island on the Med, nestled between Italy and North Africa, for an unforgettable weekend (or week) of sight-seeing, eating, and swimming.

WHERE TO STAY

There’s an abundance of beautiful hotels in Malta, but while there, I stayed in the stunning The Marriott, St. Julians.

Freshly renovated, this five-star hotel oozes glamour and elegance and it’s an Aladdin’s Cave of wonder with an array of amenities under one roof. From the fully functioning gym to the beautiful spa, indoor and outdoor pools, luxury lounges and relaxation areas, there’s always a new spot to check out, after checking in.

One that you must visit though, is the hotel bar – and if you’re in luck, their mixologist Irzel will be working. A master of his craft, you can either order one of his drinks from the menu or simply tell him your flavour preferences and he’ll customise something for you. The apple and whiskey concoction appears in a cloud of smoke and is not only delicious but an absolute spectacle.

After a nightcap, return to your room, and if you’ve nabbed a sea view, you’ll be lulled off into a slumber with the soothing wave sounds. Who needs a white noise playlist on Spotify?

WHERE TO EAT

Malta may be best known for its beautiful beaches and cobbled streets which you could spend hours roaming around, however the food in this city is a highlight in itself.

If you’re planning a trip, be sure to try rabbit (the national dish of Malta) in Rubino, one of the many delicious beef options in Wigi’s Kitchen, seabass in Cent’Anni and the mushroom tortellini in Don Berto. And if you’re looking for a wine to wash it all down, ask for ‘Nexus’, a beautiful Merlot or ‘Isis’, a crisp Chardonnay.

If you get the chance, also try to take up a cookery class one afternoon. One of the highlights of my entire trip was spending an afternoon at a masterclass with the head chef and owner of Maldonado Bistro, prepping and creating some tasty Maltese treats.

WHAT TO DO

There’s so much to do and so many places to see that you’ll want to bring your walking shoes; high-heels can stay home for this trip!

Spend an afternoon strolling through the beautiful town of Valetta, checking out some of the historical sights such as St. John’s Cathedral before making your way to the Barrakka Gardens where you can watch the cannons being fired at certain points of the day, or visit Marsaxlokk, an old fishing village steeped with local culture.

A day trip to Gozo is a must. Here, I spent a day zooming around the island on a Yippee TukTuk with local legend and driver, Maurice, visiting all the scenic spots along the coast including the Salt Pans, Calypso’s Caves and Billy Connolly’s holiday home.

I’m already planning my trip back and can’t wait to uncover some more secret gems! Click to visitmalta.com to get planning your holiday.

Words: Michelle Dardis