malta

Being only a short flight from Italy, the Maltese Islands enjoy beautiful weather throughout the year, making the spectacular beaches a haven for those looking to enjoy the sunshine or to refresh themselves in the glittering waters. Temperatures here are often in excess of 30ºC. Perhaps the most striking aspect of the islands is their size. They are all very small and visitors can drive around Malta or Gozo in a day, allowing them to quickly discover attractions and sites that hold most interest for them.

Most of the Maltese islands have been inhabited since around 5000 BC and there are many sites of archaeological interest to explore. Both Malta and Gozo were invaded by numerous forces over the centuries including the Ottoman Empire, the French and the Romans. All of the invading cultures have left their mark on the islands, evident in the wide variety of architectural styles and the eclectic and unique tastes of the Maltese cuisine.

The races that made Malta and Gozo their homes have also left behind a number of cultural celebrations that have been absorbed by the Islands. There are numerous festivals throughout the year including the Ash Wednesday Carnival, the festivals of St Peter and St Paul and the famous agricultural show in Buskett.

Gozo is the most lushly vegetated of all the islands and offers a more rural insight into modern Maltese life. On this island it is possible to see sweeping views of terraced fields and ancient forests that house a variety of wildlife. The seas too have their part to play in housing a diverse collection of creatures. As a result of the many sea battles fought off the Maltese shores, there are many sunken wrecks acting as homes to groupers, gurnards, octopi and flying fish - to name but a few.

The islands themselves also have naturally-made coves and submarine caves that provide the perfect environment for scuba divers of all abilities. Sites such as Fungus Rock offer interest both above and below the water. The fungus coating this rock was believed to have medicinal qualities and was fiercely defended against thieves by the Knights of St. John.

Although Malta and Gozo are relatively small islands, their rich cultural heritage has left a variety of attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

• The The Azure Window is a 50 metre high rock arch in the Dwejra Point cliffs. The sea has worn a hole through a narrow headland forming "the window".
• The Citadel is one of the main attractions on the islands, offering fantastic architecture and a glimpse into their bloody past.
• Calypso¿s Cave is said to be the cave described in the Odyssey, where Calypso enticed Odysseus. It is situated near to the red-sanded beach of Ramla.