Villa Meilak

The Villa Meilak is nestled in the countryside of the quiet village of Triq Il-Barbieri, near to Zurrieq, on the south of the island, just six kilometres from Malta’s International Airport, eight kilometres from the nearest sandy beach, and within easy distance of three UNESCO World Heritage sites. Steeped in history, Zurrieq is one of Malta’s oldest towns, with records dating back to the fifteenth century and archaeological sites up to three thousand years old. The name Zurrieq means blue in Maltese, and you couldn’t be much closer to the famous Blue Grotto, a collection of sea caverns on the coast, take a trip and explore the caves, by boat is best, but if rock climbing is your thing, you can do that too. Go back in time to the Bronze Age, the Punic era, and Roman rule as you explore tombs, catacombs and cart ruts of Xarolla, Tal-Bakkari and Tal-Hlantun, not to mention the megalithic ruins of the Hagar Qim Temples. Wrestle with the famous five iconic windmills of the area, of which Tax-Xarolla, built-in 1724, it is the only one left that is working. Climb one of the thirteen towers scattered along the coast, don’t miss the WardijaTower, built-in 1659 to protect the island from invaders. Take to the sea in a boat trip to the beach at Pretty Bay, or if you are feeling more adventurous, cross the Mediterranean Sea to the island of Filfla. Make sure you make a visit to the traditional Marsaxlokk fishing village just along the coast.

The capital city of Valetta is just a thirteen kilometre, an easy twenty five minute drive across the island. Valetta is a medieval walled city with a mdina that dates back to the crusading Knights of St John in the 1500’s, and you can still see their influence today, most notably in the beautiful Baroque Roman Catholic St John’s cathedral. Take a walking tour of the city to discover the treasures of Valetta’s many ornate churches, many of them dating back to as early as the Renaissance. Admire the views of the magnificent harbour from the top of the manicured Upper Barrakka Gardens, a park full of local flowers in a landscaped setting, and a daily cannon that reminds everyone when it’s midday and is also fired for religious festivals, anniversaries and visiting dignitaries. Valetta is famous for its fabulous food; take a stroll down ancient streets and discover local restaurants serving traditional Maltese fayre, or live like a local and drink kinnie or a glass of the local wine whilst you people watch from pavement cafes. No trip to Malta is complete without a visit to the beautiful island of Gozo, take boat trip over the water from the north of the island, and explore this rural idyll.

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There are so many reasons visitors fall head over heels in love with Malta. Not only is the sunny Mediterranean island home to stunning beaches and beautiful landscapes, it’s also a paradise for guests seeking authentic cultural experiences and rich heritage.

Starting with Malta’s capital, Valletta, a handsome city dating back to the 16th century that has earned its title as a UNESCO World Heritage site with its ornate architecture and baroque Saint John's Co-Cathedral. During the day, sip coffee on the café terraces of Pjazza Regina then watch the city come to life in the evening as locals gather across the historic centre to dine al-fresco and party into the night – Strada Stretta is the place to be!

With a history spanning over 7000 years, Malta is a dream for historians of every age. Come across old forts and towers as you explore the coastline as well as fascinating museums in villages and towns. Head back further in time as you admire the island’s incredible archaeological sites including the megalithic temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra.

Then there’s the blue-flag beaches and swimming opportunities – with an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the island’s varied coastline. From Ghadira Bay in the north with its sandy shores and shallow water to the rocky coastline around Il-Kalanka for jumping and snorkelling, there are so many idyllic spots to choose from. Don’t forget that Malta is also home to some of the most beautiful and clear European waters for diving.

Culturally, there is so much to experience such as the vibrant Carnival just before Lent as well as music festivals and village events across the summer. During the second weekend of October, one of Malta’s oldest cities is magically lit up by candlelight during Birgufest whilst there are plenty of enchanting celebrations around Christmas time.

There’s no shortage of fine food to be savoured across Malta – dining out is a wonderful way to experience true Maltese hospitality. Cuisine is inspired by the Mediterranean, Sicily and even North Africa yet it has its distinct identity too, usually accompanied by traditionally baked Maltese bread, a staple of the diet. Come across delicious pastizzi and ftira biz-zejt alongside cheeses, olive oil, sea-salt and honey infused with thyme, all delectable delights that have been produced across the island for centuries.