Where?

Mellieha, Malta.

Why now?

South of Sicily, east of Tunisia and north of Libya, the sea-sprayed island of
Malta is situated in the heart of the
Mediterranean. Ranked as the world’s tenth smallest country by
area, it is also, ironically, the fourth most densely populated
sovereign country. Thanks to its prime location, the land has long
served as a naval base, with Romans, Greeks, Arabs and Brits among
those to have set sail from its waters. Today, evidence of foreign
influence can still be seen at every turn, woven into Maltese
architecture, but it’s the unique and passionate spirit of the
islanders that really caught our attention.

And nowhere more so than in Mellieha. Situated in Malta’s
north-west, this lesser-trodden town was first permanently
inhabited some 5,000 years ago, meaning there’s a whole bevy of
caves, tombs and temples to discover. History aside, it makes the
perfect holiday destination for those who prefer their getaways to
be long, lazy and to look like lounging on Malta’s most picturesque
beach, Ghadira Bay – cocktail in hand, obviously. You’ll find a
thriving community-driven social scene across town, with locals
justifiably proud of the area’s natural beauty.

Don’t miss

If you’ve watched the legendary 1980 musical Popeye one too many
times, visit Mellieha’s iconic Popeye Village. The blockbuster’s
original backdrop remains identical to how it looked when the film
was made, 42 years ago.

Where to stay?

Private balconies, four-poster beds and spa showers await at the
Lure
Hotel & Spa. Nestled just a short stroll from both Ghadira
Bay’s sparkling shore and the bustling town centre, the hotel’s
rooftop infinity pool is the perfect vantage point from which to
enjoy all of Mellieha’s visual splendour.

Where to go for dinner?

Snag a table at every local’s favourite feasting spot, Rebekah’s
Restaurant, whose rustic setting is made cosy by fairy lights
draped across the bare-brick walls and chairs piled high with plush
cushions. Start by ordering the Acquerello-aged-rice risotto,
before digging into the pan-fried lamb loin. Desserts don’t
disappoint, either: our favourite is the white chocolate and
strawberry gateau, but we won’t judge if you opt to order the
entire sweets menu.

And for a drink…

Square
Gastro Bar, for its solid selection of gins and whiskies and
banging food menu. With large seating areas and comfy sofas, this
is a great spot for post-beach boozing.

Who to take with you

That friend who whips out a pair of shorts as soon as the
temperature hits double digits. They’ll relish spending days on the
beach, head in the latest romcom, while working on their tan.

When to go

For guaranteed scorchers? August. Can’t hack the heat? Try
September, when temperatures become breathable and the crowds thin
out.

Essentials to pack

A beach wrap, for ease of flitting between lounging and sipping
an icy soda at the laid-back Blu Beach Club. We love this Eres printed silk-blend wrap.

How to get there

Fly direct from London Gatwick to Malta International Airport,
from where it’s just a 35-minute drive to Mellieha.