Malta

Malta is a true Mediterranean marvel. Heavily influenced by the many civilisations which have contested and ruled its sun-filled shores, Malta and Gozo, its sister island, together claim over 6,500 years of history with one of the world’s greatest concentrations of historical sights. Each conquering power has left its mark from Arabic town names to British food, Greek superstitions and Roman Catholicism. A few days here will reveal a lavish architectural legacy, splendid Baroque churches, a flourishing food scene and rich agricultural traditions.

Take a traditional water taxi from Valletta, crossing the waters of Grand Harbour to the Three Cities, whose imposing fortifications tell the fascinating story of Malta’s military history. Senglea’s tidy Gardjola Gardens, with its iconic watchtower, offers panoramic views of magnificent Fort St Angelo and the capital’s lively waterfront.

The number of well-preserved megalithic ruins scattered throughout the Maltese archipelago will astound even the most seasoned traveller. A wander through remarkable ancient sites such as the hypogeum of Hal Saflieni, or the temples at Hagar Qim and Mnajdra will leave you pondering the ingenuity of early Stone Age civilisations.

Navigate the stunning Maltese archipelago in a private yacht, stopping in secluded bays where you can snorkel or swim in crystalline waters. Admire the spectacular rocky coastlines of Comino — an island that features in many Hollywood blockbuster films. On Gozo, more ancient megaliths await exploration in the form of the mysterious Ggantijia Temples.

For almost 300 years, Malta served as headquarters for the medieval Knights Hospitaller, also known as the Order of St John. Its vibrant capital — Valletta — brims with treasures from this era including the St John’s Co-Cathedral, filled with priceless Baroque masterpieces, and the Grandmaster’s Palace, which houses an impressive collection of armour and weapons.

5 days from $5,790 pp Peel back the layers of Malta’s 7,000 years of history and discover a greater density of historic sights per square kilometre than any other country. Though diminutive in size, this Mediterranean nation is jampacked with temples, forts and palaces that collectively tell the story of the island’s intriguing inhabitants and its history. Explore the capital, Valletta, one of the few cities in the world with UNESCO World Heritage status for its legacy of lavish architecture from the Megalithic Period to the Knights of St. John and beyond. Then venture by yacht to the other islands of the Maltese archipelago.

Our complete range of tailor-made journeys can be viewed on our website and all can be personalised to your individual requirements. Visit www.abercrombiekent.com.au to find out more.