Location

The ‘Salt Rock’ lives up to its name – this stretch of northwest coast is all drama and elemental beauty. While there’s no marked trail, that’s part of its charm. Scramble along limestone formations carved by wind and waves, peek into ancient salt pans and soak in Mediterranean views that’ll stop you in your tracks. Bring good shoes and a sense of adventure – this one’s wonderfully rugged.

Just outside Rabat, Buskett feels like nowhere else in Malta. This woodland oasis, planted by the Knights of St. John, offers shaded paths winding past hidden grottos and trickling fountains. With trails ranging from easy strolls to gentle climbs, it’s perfect for families or anyone seeking a peaceful wander beneath the trees. The ideal outside spot to get some shade from the Maltese sunshine!

Walking Dingli‘s edge is a proper spine-tingler. These majestic cliffs tower over the Mediterranean, with views stretching to tiny Filfla island. The well-worn path offers plenty of spots to pause and take it all in – just mind the wind up here, it can be fierce. Choose your starting point and walk as far as you fancy – every step offers another photo opportunity.

Il-Majjistral is Malta showing off. This northwest corner packs in coastal trails, hidden coves and archaeological treasures, all wrapped in wild garigue landscape. Multiple marked paths mean you can tailor your walk to your energy levels. Come for an hour, stay for the day – there’s always another corner to explore.

Near Siġġiewi, this hilltop chapel sits among terraced fields and winding paths that feel forgotten by time. While there’s no official trail, that’s half the fun – follow your feet up slopes and around valleys, discovering views that stretch to the sea. It’s quiet up here, perfect for clearing your head before your next treatment or massage.

Tucked away near Dingli, this little chapel is all about finding quiet. No grand gestures here – just honest stone walls, olive groves and the kind of peace that’s hard to find these days. It’s the perfect antidote to Malta’s grander churches, reminding us that sometimes less really is more. A lovely chapel to explore within easy reach of the Verdala.

Standing proud in the pretty village of Għargħur, St Bartholomew’s has been knocked down and built up so many times it’s like a history book in stone. Each rebuild has added its own character, creating something uniquely Maltese. Simple but charming, it shows how local communities have kept their faith alive through centuries of change.

You can’t miss this one – its oval dome plays peek-a-boo above Valletta’s rooftops. Step inside and the baroque styling hits you full force: elaborate carvings, rich paintings and enough gold leaf to make a magpie blush. Its grand interior is a testament to the wealth and artistic prowess of its patrons. The church’s central location in Valletta makes it an unmissable part of the city’s architectural and cultural landscape. A visit here will not disappoint.

This isn’t just a church – it’s where Malta’s Christian story began. Built above the grotto where St Paul supposedly sheltered after his shipwreck, it’s been drawing pilgrims for centuries. The architecture is impressive enough, but it’s the sense of history that really gets you. The site is a pilgrimage destination for many due to its religious importance and history and it’s worth visiting to learn about the influence of Saint Paul in Malta’s history. And it’s only a few minutes walk from the Verdala.

Mdina’s crowning glory doesn’t do anything by halves. Baroque architecture at its most confident, the cathedral rises above the Silent City like a prayer made stone. Inside, it’s a feast of frescoes, sculptures and pure theatrical grandeur. Come for the architecture, stay for the atmosphere. It is a wonderful example of the wealth and importance of the church in Malta’s history.

Corpus Christi is a solemn yet celebratory feast that focuses on the Eucharist, with the streets often decorated in elaborate displays of flowers and religious symbols. While not as raucous as some other Maltese feasts, Corpus Christi features processions of the Blessed Sacrament through the streets, with local communities often participating in the preparation of decorations. The emphasis is on quiet reverence and religious devotion, offering a glimpse into a more contemplative aspect of Maltese religious tradition. It is a day of reflection.

The Feast of St Joseph, celebrated on March 19th, is a deeply cherished event in Malta. While it is a solemn celebration for the saint himself, it’s also an occasion for family gatherings and special food. The main feature of the feast, like many Maltese feasts, is the procession through the village or town, which is usually accompanied by marching band music. Some villages will also have fireworks in the evening – a true highlight!

The Feast of St Paul is one of the most significant feasts in Malta, honouring the island’s patron saint, St Paul. While there are different celebrations on different days relating to St Paul, including his Shipwreck on the 10th of February, the main feast day is June 29th. It is often a large-scale celebration with colourful processions, traditional marching band music and elaborate decorations.

L-Imnarja, celebrated on June 29th, is an ancient Maltese harvest festival with roots stretching back to pre-Christian times. While it coincides with the Feast of St Paul and is now tied to that, L-Imnarja is a cultural event showcasing local traditions, produce and folk music. Held in Buskett Gardens (just a short drive from the Verdala), it features a variety of stalls with local crafts and food. The event also includes traditional folk music, horse races and traditional singing. It’s a time for Maltese to celebrate their rural heritage and it is a popular event for both locals and visitors.

The Conversion of St Paul is celebrated on the 25th of January and is another of the religious celebrations focusing on St Paul in the Maltese calendar. The feast commemorates the moment when Saul (who became Paul) converted to Christianity. In Malta, the day is marked by religious services. This event focuses on the spiritual significance of St Paul and serves as a reminder of his important role in the history of Maltese Christianity. Many parishes hold special religious services and it’s an important day for local churches.

Cosmana Navarra was a Maltese noblewoman who lived during the time of the Knights of St. John. She is remembered for her act of defiance against a knight who was harassing her family. She is a symbol of female empowerment during a time when women had very little power, making her a celebrated figure in Maltese history.

Grand Master Hugues Loubenx de Verdalle was a significant figure in the history of the Knights of St. John and Malta. He served as Grand Master in the late 16th century. He was responsible for the construction of Verdala Palace, now used as the official summer residence of the President of Malta, which the Verdala Hotel is also named after. His reign was marked by both architectural developments and some scandal. He is a controversial figure in Malta’s past but was certainly influential.

Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena was a Portuguese nobleman and the 66th Grand Master of the Knights of St. John. He served in the early 18th century. He was a highly regarded Grand Master, known for his patronage of the arts and his extensive building projects in Malta. He was responsible for the construction of Fort Manoel, a significant defensive structure and the city of Floriana. De Vilhena was a skilled administrator, known for improving the living conditions for the local population and his legacy is still visible across the island.

Paul the Apostle is a central figure in Maltese history and religion. According to the Bible, St Paul was shipwrecked on Malta in 60 AD, where he spent three months. During his stay he is believed to have performed miracles and converted the island’s population to Christianity, making him incredibly important to Malta’s religious history. His shipwreck and conversion of the islanders is still celebrated today and many of Malta’s churches and cathedrals are named after St Paul. He remains a hugely important figure and influence to the island and the St Paul Catacombs are located within easy walking distance of the Verdala.

Farrugia Gilder represents a long-standing tradition of craftsmanship in Malta. The Farrugia family have been gilding for generations, using gold leaf to decorate religious artifacts, furniture and architectural elements. Their workshop is a testament to the old skills of gilding, a technique that requires both precision and an artistic eye. While gilding may be considered a more niche trade, Farrugia’s business highlights Malta’s connection to its artistic heritage and its dedication to the preservation of traditional crafts. It is a wonderful example of the island’s skilled artisans.

Casino Notabile, located in the heart of Rabat and a short walk from the Verdala, is not a casino in the gambling sense but rather a traditional Maltese shop selling a variety of goods. Historically, these ‘casinos’ were places for social gathering but often also housed traders and shops. Casino Notabile is known for stocking a mix of local products and has evolved into a place selling local pastries and treats, as well as other souvenir items. It is a must visit shop for those in Rabat and is an important piece of the town’s trading history.

Is-Serkin, also known as Crystal Palace, is a Rabat pastizzi shop that is much-loved in Malta. Pastizzi are a local savoury pastry and are a staple of Maltese cuisine. Is-Serkin has become an institution, selling the little pies with the traditional fillings of pea, ricotta and anchovies. This small hole-in-the-wall is incredibly popular with locals and visitors and offers a snapshot of Maltese life and an opportunity to try one of the island’s most loved foods.

Parruccan Confectionery is a beloved traditional Maltese confectionery located in Rabat, specialising in crafting and selling traditional Maltese sweets and treats. This shop is a treasure trove of local delicacies, offering items like figolli (almond-filled pastries, especially popular at Easter), qagħaq tal-għasel (honey rings) and other local favourites. The shop’s atmosphere is often nostalgic, evoking a sense of old Malta, when these treats were enjoyed on special occasions.

The Rabat Market is a traditional Maltese market that takes place on Sundays. This market promises a vibrant mix of stalls selling everything from local produce and fresh goods to clothing and household items. It is very popular with both locals and tourists and is a wonderful place to experience Maltese life.

This privately-owned 16th-century palazzo in Rabat offers an intimate glimpse into Maltese noble life. The meticulously restored house is still a family home, filled with antique furniture, paintings and personal collections spanning centuries. Tours provide insights into the family’s history and social standing, making it a unique experience beyond typical museum visits. The beautiful courtyard and rooftop views add to the charm of this living piece of Maltese heritage. It offers a very personal view of aristocratic life in Malta.

Situated on the site of a Roman-era townhouse just outside Mdina, the Domvs Romana features incredibly well-preserved mosaic floors dating back to the 1st century BC. The museum exhibits other Roman artifacts discovered here, giving visitors a tangible sense of Roman occupation in Malta. The detailed mosaics offer invaluable insights into the artistic styles and daily life of the period, showcasing the wealth and sophistication of the era. This museum promises is a fascinating glimpse into Roman civilization on the island.

This medieval palazzo in Mdina, once home to Olof Gollcher, is now a museum displaying his impressive collection of art, antiques and historical artifacts. The palazzo itself is a wonderful example of medieval architecture and exhibits cover a wide range of items from silverware and carpets to paintings and weaponry. The collection reveals the refined tastes of a wealthy Maltese collector and offers a very personal insight into Maltese cultural and social life in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Also located in Mdina, this elegant Baroque-style palace was built in the 18th century by Grand Master Vilhena. It now houses the National Museum of Natural History, showcasing Malta’s diverse flora, fauna and geology. The palace itself is an example of beautiful architecture, with grand halls and impressive courtyards. The museum displays a wide array of natural specimens and exhibits that offer insights into Malta’s natural environment, both past and present.

Located in Rabat, these extensive underground burial chambers represent a mix of pagan, Jewish and Christian burial traditions during Roman times. They are a sprawling complex of tunnels and chambers cut into the limestone bedrock, providing a silent testimony to the early Christian community and burial customs of Malta. The catacombs offer a fascinating, if somewhat eerie, journey into the past and highlight the complex religious landscape of ancient Malta, giving a fascinating glimpse at early life and death.

This ancient rock-cut pool and cave system, located near the cliffs of Mellieha, is shrouded in mystery and local folklore. The precise origin and purpose of the complex are still debated, with theories ranging from ritual bathing sites to ancient water storage. The dramatic setting and mysterious atmosphere, combined with the rock-cut features, make it an intriguing and unusual spot to visit.

This ancient site features a series of tombs and burial chambers carved into the rocky landscape. It’s a less-visited site, offering a more rugged and atmospheric experience than better-known necropolises. The site suggests a history of early habitation and burial practices in the area and the simple, yet powerful, presence of the rock-cut tombs creates a very unique atmosphere. Its less-manicured approach makes it a very different experience for visitors who’d like an alternative to other historical locations.

Found at the back of the former Holy Infirmary in Valletta, the foundling wheel was a rotating cylinder set into a wall. It allowed mothers to anonymously leave unwanted babies for the care of the hospital. It’s a poignant reminder of the social hardships of past times and speaks volumes about the difficult choices women faced. The simple mechanism is a powerful symbol of both abandonment and an attempt to offer some hope, highlighting a sad chapter of Maltese history.

This unusual pine tree, located on the road to Mdina and Rabat, is known for the natural markings on its bark that many perceive to resemble the face of Jesus. Its very unusual appearance has made it a local curiosity for decades. The Jesus Tree was uprooted in 2008 and moved along the road, where it has become a monument. Now, only the trunk of the tree remains, adorned by a plaque, flowers and candles that are permanent fixtures.

These distinctive door knockers found on many Maltese doors are often ornate and made of brass. They vary from simple rings to elaborate designs featuring dolphins, lions and other symbolic figures. More than just functional, they traditionally reflected the status and taste of the household, adding a unique touch to Malta’s streetscapes. Their variety highlights Maltese craftsmanship and traditions and are often a beautiful reminder of the past.

An old Maltese window with a fascinating story to tell! Picture a wooden screen that let you watch the world while the world couldn’t watch you back. Born from Arab influence in the 1300s, these clever contraptions were the eyes and ears of medieval Malta, cooling homes and protecting privacy long before anyone dreamed of air conditioning or security cameras. While rare today, you can still spot a few of these architectural time machines around the islands, with the best examples hiding in Gozo’s old Arab quarter and topping an historic house on Santu Rokku Street in Birkirkara. Think of them as the great-grandparents of those wooden balconies that make Malta’s streets so photogenic today.

This iconic, closed wooden balcony is a defining feature of many Maltese townhouses today. Unlike the muxrabija, which is often more delicate, the gallarija is typically fully enclosed, often with colourful glass panels. They offer a perfect vantage point for residents and add colour to the streets. The various colours, styles and sizes make them instantly recognisable as a Maltese design and a visual treat.

Meaning “decorated windows,” these are windows that are often adorned with ornate frames or decorative ironwork. These embellishments contribute to the distinctive appearance of Maltese buildings and are a visual example of a pride in craftsmanship. They vary from simple mouldings to elaborate carvings, often reflecting the style of a specific era or the taste of the home’s owner.

Wrought iron is commonly used for entrances to homes and gardens across Malta and these gates are found in a range of styles and are often quite ornate. The ironwork can include intricate patterns, scrolls and floral motifs, demonstrating fine craftsmanship. They provide both security and a decorative element, acting as a beautiful welcome into many Maltese homes.