SECRET MALTA TOURS 2015
WWW.SECRETITALIA.COM
DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF MALTA & GOZO ISLANDS
You’re invited on a distinctive small group journey through the fascinating island of Malta to the majestic and dramatic island of Gozo. Delight in a special exploration of both islands, with their amazing climate, dramatic vistas and hearty cuisine that embodies all things Maltese. Many were those who occupied the islands in the course of their lengthy history (Phoneticians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, French and English) leaving behind an artistic and cultural heritage. The Maltese Islands are like nowhere else. Here you will find great prehistoric temples, fossil-studded cliffs, glittering hidden coves, thrilling diving opportunities and a history of remarkable intensity. On this small group journey, you’ll begin your exploration of Malta, examining the imprints of history left by many civilizations, as you circle the island from west to east, north and south. Enjoy the contrasts of everyday life in these very different islands corners as you mingle with the locals during exclusive meals, wine tasting, boat trips and more cultural experiences. As early as prehistoric times, large temples were built indicating a highly developed and sophisticated civilization. It was, however, under the order of the Knights of St John that Malta developed culturally, artistically and the island was enhanced with beautiful palaces, churches, fortifications and work of art. With their mild climate, clear sea, impressive cliffs and the bright colours of the Mediterranean shrubs, Malta and Gozo are a true paradise and an ideal destination for holidays of all kinds.
We have a real passion for Malta & Gozo !
Secret Malta Tours
MALTA & GOZO: LEGENDARY ISLANDS TRAVEL ITINERARY
DAY 1: WELCOME TO MALTA AND OUR SLIEMA BOUTIQUE HOTEL
Arrival in Malta by plane where you will be transferred to our central boutique hotel renowned for its luxurious blend of Victorian décor and gracious Mediterranean hospitality. Located on Malta’s north- east coast, SLIEMA is a lively town dotted with restaurants, shops and boulevards looking out on to the Mediterranean waters. After an opportunity to rest and freshen up we gather at a nearby panoramic cafe’ boasting fantastic views over VALLETTA for an aperitif followed by a welcome dinner in a local restaurant for an introduction to the local cuisine and to get acquainted with your fellow travel companions.
DAY 2: FALLING IN LOVE WITH THE GRANDIOSE VALLETTA
Today’s visit takes you to discover Malta’s capital city, VALLETTA , a cultural heritage site where to enjoy wonderful views from the Upper and Lower Barakka gardens, perched high above the Grand harbour. Included are interior visits to the top two sites: “ST.JOHN’S CO-CATHEDRAL” with its museum, dating back to the 16th century, boasting magnificent interior and two masterpieces by CARAVAGGIO and “THE GRAND MASTERS PALACE” which houses the Parliament and the president’s office. In the Tapestry Chambers you’ll marvel at the priceless Gobelins tapestries covering the walls. Here you’ll also visit the “PALACE OF ARMOURY”, one of the world’s largest collections of arms and armour that is still housed in its original building. The Palace is certainly one of the most visible and tangible symbols of the past glories of the Sovereign Hospitalier order of Malta. Your tour guide will show you the highlights of Valletta, discovering the hidden beauty of this enchanting city, with also plenty of time on your own in Republic Street for shopping or sightseeing. We’ll also visit the “NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM”, boasting interesting prehistoric artefacts. After an included lunch in a typical restaurant, you’ll end your tour by viewing the “TEATRU MANUEL”, one of the oldest working theatres in the world, built in 1731 by the Knights of St. John. Late afternoon at leisure to explore more in- depth this magical city. Evening is on your own. Walking: Moderate
DAY 3: THE GRAND HARBOUR AREA: MEMORIES OF THE PAST
This morning we explore the cities of Cospicua, Vittoriosa and Senglea, known as “THREE CITIES“, the towns extending towards Valletta, divide the Grand Harbour into deep inlets. The area is locally referred to as the Cottonera, for the simple reason that in 1670, owing to the fear of the Ottoman invasion, a long line of fortifications was built on the landward side to encircle the three cities. This was meant to provide defence to the population of the cities and to the country people leaving in the nearby villages. VITTORIOSA is not only the oldest but historically the most important one. The main church of Vittoriosa is dedicated to St. Lawrence, the patron saint of the city. Here you’ll discover the fascinating corners of this fairy-tale town, visiting the INQUISITOR’S PALACE, featuring plain prison cells and dungeons on the lower floors, which contrast with the highly decorated private apartments of the Inquisitors themselves above, including the Tribunal room where evidence was heard and verdicts were issued. We have also included an interesting visit to the MARITIME MUSEUM, with its extensive collection that includes the largest known Roman anchor and ship model belonging to the order of St John worldwide. In SENGLEA you’ll visit the beautiful Church of Our Lady of Victories, built in the 17th century by Cassar and the VEDETTE POINT boasting great views. COSPICUA, protected by a massive stone wall was originally a small fishing village and the target of heavy bombing during the Second World War. After an included street food experience with Maltese “PASTIZZ”, you’ll board a typical Maltese boat “DGHAJSA” to sail along the grand harbour for 30 mins to witness Malta’s living past. Evening is on your own. Walking: Moderate
DAY 4: DISCOVER THE BEAUTIES OF THE SOUTH
The megalithic temples of Malta, which date mainly from the period 3600 to 3000 BC, are among the oldest free-standing stone structures in the world. They pre-date the Pyramids of Egypt by more than 500 years. Our morning destination are the megalithic temples of HAGAR QIM & MNAJDRA ,the best preserved and most evocative of Malta’s prehistoric sites, with an unparalleled location atop sea cliffs, looking over to the islet of Filfa. The Megalithic Temple complex was built between 3600-3200 BC, making them older than the pyramids of Egypt. The day continues with a visit to MARSAXLOKK, a charming fishing village famous for its brightly coloured fishing boats which ride at anchor and where the wives of the fishermen knot nylon string bags for the tourists. The port of Marsaxlokk is also famous for its crowded market which takes place every Sunday right on the seafront, the perfect setting for an included lunch in a typical sea-food restaurant. In the afternoon, you’ll explore more in depth the south coast travelling along the rocky coast around Wied iz-Zurrieg stopping off above the BLUE GROTTO to enjoy its view. We end up the day visiting a real natural gem, the underground cave of GHAR DALAM (“The cave of darkness”) where fossilized bones of animals have been discovered in caves as well as two human molars, believed to be those of Neanderthal man. Dinner is on your own this evening. Walking: Moderate
DAY 5: ANCIENT TRADITIONS OF CENTRAL MALTA
Our journey takes you today to discover the beauty of central Malta, one of the most fascinating regions, stopping off in the towns of MOSTA and RABAT. In MOSTA, you’ll visit the monument of St Mary’s Church, with its third largest unsupported dome in the world dedicated to the Assumption. On 9 April 1942, the church was nearly destroyed during War World II. An Axis bomb hit the dome of the church but failed to explode. The detonator was removed and a replica is now displayed as a memorial. We then move to RABAT where we’ll visit ST.PAUL’S CATACOMBS, the largest complex of catacombs dating back to the Roman period. We’ll take you to visit the DOMUS ROMANA, where the mosaic pavements rank among the finest and oldest compositions from the western Mediterranean, alongside those of Pompeii and Sicily. Today we’ll enjoy a WINE TASTING in a local wine estate before discovering the enchanting town of MDINA, Malta’s old capital city. In medieval times Mdina, now known as the silent city, was the seat of municipal government and an important administrative center. There are many beautiful buildings and monuments in this small city, including the 18th century Vilhena Palace, now housing the Museum of National History and the elegant palaces of Villegaignon Street. In the main square, ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL rises majestically above the whole city and dwarfs all around it. It was erected after the earthquake of 1693 which destroyed the former Romanesque one. We’ll end up the day with a stop for a group photo at a height of 250 metres near the village of Dingli with its outstanding DINGLI CLIFFS. Dinner is on your own this evening. Walking: Moderate
DAY 6: GOLDEN SUN & BLUE WATERS: GOZO ISLAND
In the morning, we transfer you to Cirkewwa from where we travel by ferry (approx. 25 mins) to the idyllic island of GOZO. It is the second largest island of the Maltese archipelago. Compared to its south-eastern neighbour, Gozo is more rural and popular for its scenic hills, which are featured on its coat of arms. Gozo covers 26 square miles, approx. the same area as Manhattan. It lies approx. 4 miles northwest of the nearest point of Malta. Our Gozitan experience starts with a guided walking tour of the fortified capital city of VICTORIA with its enchanting CITADEL followed by a panoramic drive around the island, stopping off at the AZURE WINDOW at Dwejra, the TA’ PINU CHURCH, the CALIPSO CAVE, the fishing village of XLENDI and the GGANTIJA TEMPLES. Street food experience in a local Gozitan bakery to taste the typical bread “Ftira” and some Gozitan cheese is included today. Evening is on your own. Walking: Moderate
DAY 7: FLAVOURS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN A day at leisure to make your own explorations of this charming island or simply to relax. Your tour director will be happy to give you suggestions on places to visit or activities nearby Sliema and Valletta. In the evening we gather in a popular Maltese restaurant for a “SAHHA GROUP DINNER” to celebrate Malta and its beauty. Tonight is your last night in Malta, so let’s make it special!.
DAY 8: SAHHA MALTA” GOOD-BYE MALTA” Morning transfers to Malta airport. Hopefully you can stay longer in this gorgeous country and explore other magical corners of the Mediterranean, maybe considering continuing your vacation in Sicily. Sahha from Secret Malta Tours