When heading to a European destination in winter, relying on good weather is a gamble, no matter how far across the continent you plan to go.
Recently, Holly Clarke from the Liverpool Echo decided to take a chance on the weather and set off on an adventure to the Maltese Archipelago. Not only did she luck out with the weather, but she also discovered that the Mediterranean island chain is a hidden gem.
From wandering the streets of the quiet city of Mdina to immersing herself in the vibrancy of the capital city, Valletta, there is something for everyone in Malta. Holly also enjoyed the lively nightlife in St Julian’s, the pristine waters of the Blue Lagoon, and a plethora of churches to explore.
Holly’s journey began at Manchester Airport at 7 am, and by noon, she was already exploring the stunning Balluta Bay. Flights to Malta are easily accessible from various UK airports, including John Lennon Airport.
While Malta impressed her, it was the smaller, less-visited neighbor, Gozo, that truly captured Holly’s heart.
Comprising three islands – Malta, Gozo, and Comino – the Republic of Malta is home to a mix of bustling and serene locales. Gozo, with its population of just over 39,000, offers a more tranquil setting compared to Malta.
Holly quickly hopped on a ferry to Gozo, where a new £2 million airport is in the works to shorten travel time from Malta. For now, the ferry ride is direct and costs around 5 Euros for a return trip.
Within 20 minutes, Holly arrived on the picturesque island of Gozo. Known for its rugged landscape and breathtaking views, Gozo exceeded her expectations with its delicious seafood, stunning vistas, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.
Gozo is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its dramatic cliffs and deep valleys. The island’s boast of 300 days of sunshine sealed the deal for Holly.
While many tourists opt for an overnight stay on the island, Holly only had a day to spare. She explored the island in a tuk-tuk provided by Yippee Malta, driven by a local named Joe who showcased the beauty of Gozo.
Her day included a thrilling climbing and abseiling experience at Mgarr ix Xini, operated by Gozo Adventures, followed by a delightful seafood lunch at Il-Kartell on the marina.
From the historic Qbajjar Salt Pans to the stunning Għar tal-Mixta cave overlooking Ramla Bay, Gozo offered Holly a rich tapestry of experiences. A visit to the iconic Citadel in Victoria capped off her memorable day on the island.
For more information on Malta and Gozo, visit visitmalta.com/en and consider staying at the luxurious Malta Marriot Resort & Spa. Flight options include Ryanair from Manchester Airport and Liverpool John Lennon, as well as KM Malta Airlines from Heathrow and Gatwick.