The Alternative Guide to Malta
The Mediterranean island of Malta is an increasingly popular holiday destination for travelers of all ages. It has great beaches, stunning scenery, and resorts of all sizes. Like many vacation destinations, visitors often tend to stay close to their accommodation and only venture out on a couple of day trips to the more well-known attractions. That is a mistake, as Malta has many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Most visitors to Malta will arrive in the capital, Valletta, a small city packed with historic sites and a UNESCO world heritage site. Most will probably also stay or play in the Silema and St Julians area. This is the heart of Malta’s tourism industry, offering great nightlife and a friendly atmosphere. It can also be very busy.
While these bustling places have their own appeal, Malta offers plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten track and explore the quieter side of the island. These are the places to head to if you want to see the real Malta:
Ir-Rih form
On the western coast of the island, Fomm Ir-Rih is a world away from the crowds of Silema. In an isolated area with no public transportation, this secluded bay sits on a fault line, creating some unique rock formations. These form the backdrop to its tranquil horseshoe-shaped bay. The rugged beach can be reached via a bumpy trail, and it is always calm. It is a great place to swim, dive and snorkel as the water is crystal clear. Visit it at the end of the day and you will enjoy a spectacular sunset.
Joy
The island of Gozo can be reached by boat from Malta. Visits there take you back in time to the Malta of yore. Much more rural than its neighbour, Gozo’s population is just 30,000, while Malta’s is 400,000. A visit can be spent walking or cycling through its countryside, exploring the small villages and admiring the views. There are also historical attractions to explore, such as the Neolithic temples of Ä gantija, some of the oldest religious buildings in the world. There are similar temples in Malta itself, but the ones in Gozo are likely to be quieter.
Zekhtun
Zejtun is a small town in the south of Malta, rarely visited by tourists, and is also one of the oldest towns in Malta. A visit to Zejtun will give you a great insight into what Maltese life is really like away from the busy resorts and beaches. There are some interesting churches to explore, and it’s also a great place to try traditional Maltese food.
Mdina
Although it receives some tourists, Mdina is off the main tourist trail. It is also a great example of a medieval walled city, with narrow streets, beautiful palaces and an otherworldly atmosphere.