14 Days Itinerary #61 -- The Maltese Islands - 14 Days - Active Luxe Itinerary

The Maltese Islands

Day 1 La Valette VIP Service - Meet and Greet and Chauffeur Service Upon Arrival Dinner reservations at Rubino -

Day 2 Valletta - The Capital City Valletta Experiences Upper Barrakka Gardens Museum of Archaeology with the Curator Manoel Theatre Gilder Artisan Visit Kings Own Band Club Restaurant National Library of - Private Tour St. John's Co-Cathedral - Private Afterhours Visit Dinner reservation at Noni Restaurant - 1 Star Michelin

Day 3 The Mysteries of Valletta and the Three Cities (Afternoon) Underground Valletta Grand Harbour Water Taxi to the Three Cities The Three Cities Private Visit with Fra John Critien at Upper Fort St. Angelo Dinner Reservations at Under Grain Restaurant - Michelin 1 Star

Day 4 , & St. Julians Manoel Island Villa Guardamangia Walking the Strand that connects Sliema with St. Julians 1 Villa Guardamangia Walking the Strand that connects Sliema with St. Julians Reservations at Cent Anni Restaurant

Day 5 Malta's Beautiful Countryside and Fishing Village (Morning) Countryside Walk Ghar Dalam Cave Site Village Tartarun Restaurant Lunch or Dinner Reservations

Day 6 Central Malta and Prehistory Hypogeum Visit Private Falconry Experience Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples Lunch Reservations at Alka Restaurant Evening Experience in the village of Private visit with the Hornyold-Stricklands Dinner Reservations at Bahia Bistro in Lija

Day 7 Northern Malta Xemxija Heritage Trail Hike Mgarr Parish Church Bell Towers Ghajn Tuffieha Baia Beach Club Lunch Reservations Channel Ferry Xlendi Bay Evening Dinner Reservations at Ta' Karolina Restaurant

Day 8 Gozo Island Exploration Biking Expereince on Gozo Island The Xwejni Salt Pans Wied il-Mielah Ggantija Temples Dinner Reservations at Tmun Restaurant

Day 9 Treasures off the Coast of Gozo and Scuba Diving Morning Half Day Kayaking off of Gozo Dinner reservations at Ta' Frenc Restaurant

Day 10 Gozo's Culinary Delights The Citadella & Victoria Self Exploration Private Tasting at Tal-Massar Vineyards A Day with the Chef on Gozo Island (Dinner Experience)

Day 11 Sailing on the Mediterranean Bavaria Vision Sailboat Day Arrive back on Malta Private Palace Visit Traditional Instrument Artisan - Francesco Sultana Dinner Reservations at De Mondion Restaurant - 1 Michelin Star

Day 12 Mdina - the Silent and Medieval City Rabat Village with War Shelters and Catacombs Pastizzi Making Experience Traditional Sheep Farmers with Cheese Tastings Rustic Farmer's Lunch on a Private Olive Grove

Day 13 Western Malta The Cliffs and Cart Ruts

Verdala Palace - The President's Summer Residence 2 Verdala Palace - The President's Summer Residence Private Visit to Ta' Betta Vineyards Reservations at Fork & Cork Restaurant

Day 14 Departure Day La Valette VIP Service - Meet and Greet and Chauffeur Service Upon Departure

Itinerary Inclusions Itinerary Exclusions Value (Total in Euro NET)

The Maltese Islands

Malta has been fought over for thousands of years, has temples that pre-date the pyramids at Giza and Stonehenge, has some of the clearest waters in the world, and boasts a capital city that is a baroque masterpiece. Like Croatia of 20 years ago, Malta has just now become a newly discovered travel destination for the cultural enthusiast and not as a second thought. The Maltese Islands, although small in size, offers travelers a rare opportunity to see a well preserved history and exciting present day culture.

Day 1

La Valette VIP Service - Meet and Greet and Chauffeur Service Upon Arrival

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred from the airplane by a private car. Then you will be escorted through the airport to the VIP Lounge. Should the plane arrive close to the arrival gate, a representative will meet you at the plane. A private transfer to your accommodations will follow.

3 Dinner reservations at Rubino - Valletta

Opened to clients in 1906, Rubino is one of the oldest establishments in Valletta. Originally a confectionery and run by Vincenzo Rubino from Palermo, Sicily, it soon became a Valletta landmark.

The Diacono family is somewhat synonymous with food. Grandfather Charles Wirth, a banker by profession, had a passion for good food, not to mention for having a good time too. Being raised surrounded by the aromas of baking and roasting it is no wonder that all of the siblings were influenced into becoming good cooks in their own right. This love for good food has moved on to the next generation, with Edward being ever present in the kitchen putting his own personal stamp on traditional and new dishes. It is not uncommon to find three generations of the family on any one night in the restaurant, as grandmother Rita still pops in once in a while to give a few tips and leave her signature on her sons’ and nephews' culinary creations.

Day 2

Valletta - The Capital City

Valletta Experiences

Valletta was built by the Knights of St. John after the Great Siege of Malta by the Ottomans in 1565. It is the fortified city that was said to be "Built by gentlemen for gentlemen". It boasts over 320 monuments in a .2 square mile radius, is a Baroque capital and has been recognized as the European Capital of Culture in 2018. You'll love what's in store within its main gates - a great mix of history and present day lively culture. Below are some of the included experiences in addition to meandering the 4 great mix of history and present day lively culture. Below are some of the included experiences in addition to meandering the main and back streets to discover Valletta`s very interesting history.

Upper Barrakka Gardens

The Upper Barrakka Gardens overlook the Grand Harbour. From their terrace they afford one of the most beautiful panoramic views in Malta as they command a unique view of the only natural harbour in the Mediterranean with the Three Cities as its backdrop.

Museum of Archaeology with the Curator

Not just another museum, the Museum of Archaeology will guide who through our living history dating back to the temple period. Spend a short time here gaining an overview and especially seeing the unbelievable finds from the temple(s) that you will be visiting on your tour. Of special note is the sleeping lady!

5 Manoel Theatre

The Manoel Theatre is one of the oldest working theatres in Europe. Constructed in 1731 by the Grand Master Antonio Manoel de Vilhena "for the honest entertainment of the Knights"; the theatre is a baroque gem with wonderful acoustics and a full calendar of events populated by local and international performers, with productions in English and Maltese. Maybe there is something on the calendar during your stay?

Gilder Artisan Visit

You’ll be paying a private visit to one of Malta’s finest artisans to learn about his trade in clock building and gilding. Witness a master artisan whose gilder lineage dates back to the 18th Century - and he has the tools to prove it.

6 Kings Own Band Club Restaurant

Casual dining in a historic place. This restaurant resides within the Kings Own Band Club residence. The oldest band club in Valletta had earned its name when the Prince of Wales became king, changing the name of the club to Kings Own from The Prince of Wales band club. Enjoy a fantastic Maltese delicacy lunch and superior wine.

National Library of Malta - Private Tour

Situated in the centre of Valletta, the National Library is one of the major treasures of the Maltese Islands. The library preserves the memory of the nation with collections that span the centuries as far back to medieval times. Enjoy this National Treasure accompanied by the National Library Librarian as she walks you through history.

7 St. John's Co-Cathedral - Private Afterhours Visit

Built shortly after the Great Siege of Malta (1565), St. John's Co-Cathedral's austere exterior is in drastic contrast to its sumptuous high baroque interior. You'll be in awe at the artistic masterpiece - from it's tombstone laid floors to the vaulted ceiling painted in the life of John the Baptist. Around the corner and into the oratory, stand before two wonderful masterpieces by the artist Caravaggio - St. Jerome and his only signed piece - The Beheading of St. John the Baptist. The best part of this experience is that you'll be experiencing the Cathedral when it is closed to the public. What a treat!

Dinner reservation at Noni Restaurant - 1 Star Michelin

Patrons can relish a slice of the capital’s history right from their seat: the premises went through numerous changes from residence, to shop, to popular jazz bar, to the present day. Although the interior has been expertly converted with modern decor and finishes, the building still retains various elements from its past, such as the stone vaults, cast-iron doors and apertures, and a centuries-old oven. Continuing with the rich history of this venue, Noni offers a fine dining experience that is set in a warm and informal atmosphere, where great food meets exceptional service.

Day 3

The Mysteries of Valletta and the Three Cities (Afternoon)

8 Underground Valletta

Join a local expert in discovering the many intricacies that make up the capital city. Your journey may take your to below, inside or even around parts of Valletta that are less traveled. Enjoy the story telling of these fascinating locations which are relatively unknown to most. Sites may include the Underground Railway Terminus, Grand Harbour Defenses or even the old submarine pens. Proper footwear is encouraged. Sites chosen are based on client interest.

Grand Harbour Water Taxi to the Three Cities

Arrive at the old Customs House where a traditional Maltese boat (Dghajsa) and boatman will be waiting for you to transfer you to the city of Vittoriosa - the main harbour city that the Knights settled at when arriving in Malta in 1530.

9 The Three Cities

The Three Cities lie across the Grand Harbour. It was here where the Knights of St. John settled when they arrived in 1530 and made Malta's capital city. The formal or original names of the cities are Birgu, Bormla and Isla and their modern names Vittoriosa, and . There is a treasure trove of history found in each of them which will be explored today.

Private Visit with Fra John Critien at Upper Fort St. Angelo

An exclusive opportunity awaits you in Vittoriosa. Fort St. Angelo is steeped in history - it having been known as the Castle by the Sea when the Knights of St. John arrived. The fort had been built up during the knights period and played a crucial part during the Great Siege of 1565 against the Ottoman Empire. Atop the Fort is the private land of the Knights of St. John where Resident Knight Fra. John Critien resides. This area of the fort is where the first Grand Master of the Order in Malta resided up until Jean Parisot de la Vallette. Enjoy a private tour led to include the grounds, private chapel as well as a few other surprises.

Note: Availability is confirmed, however the private visit is always at the discretion of the Order of Malta (Knights of St. John).

10 Dinner Reservations at Under Grain Restaurant - Michelin 1 Star

As you visit Under Grain, one floor under street level, you can immerse yourself into an environment of informal luxury. Their menu is concise but is assured to be of the highest quality and curation. Under Grain is inspired by the tailoring profession and evidence of this theme is all around. Like a tailor, the chef is skillful with his hands as he produces a beautiful end product. Enjoy unfussy modern Mediterranean dishes with top quality ingredients.

Day 4

Manoel Island, Sliema & St. Julians

Manoel Island

Enjoy a walking exploration of Manoel Island which is a small island which forms part of the municipality of Gira in . It is named after the Portuguese Grand Master António Manoel de Vilhena, who built a fort on the island in the 1720s. In the near future this area will undergo a renaissance to include living and retail spaces so the time is ripe to visit truly feel the history.

11 Villa Guardamangia

Villa Guardamangia is a townhouse in Gwardamana, Pietà, Malta, which served as the residence of Princess Elizabeth, Duchess of Edinburgh (later Queen Elizabeth II), and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, between 1949 and 1951, while Philip was stationed in Malta as a naval officer. Unfortunately not available to access, but we can see where the Royal family enjoyed their time in Malta.

Walking the Strand that connects Sliema with St. Julians

Enjoy a walk from Sliema to St. Julians as you capture this more modern area of Malta which features great bars, restaurants, nightlife and a gorgeous boardwalk.

12 Reservations at Cent Anni Restaurant

Charming would the first word to describe Cent' Anni - but it doesn't stop there. Located in the quaint village of Gharghur, Cent' Anni is an old, traditional wine bar with a history dating back to the end of the 19th Century. The Wine Bar served as a local haunt for the village folk as well as British forces personnel based in and around Gharghur in both world wars and up till the late 70s. Although completely refurbished, great care was taken to restore and keep all the original furniture and features, including the tables and benches, wine vitrines, bar counter and pictures, giving the place a unique character reminiscent of a bygone era.

Day 5

Malta's Beautiful Countryside and Fishing Village (Morning)

Countryside Walk

Join your guide for a lovely countryside walk. It's truly unbelievable that just 20 minutes outside the hustle and bustle of central-east portion of the island, you find true serenity. The walk will be fairly easy going however we recommend that you are able to walk on paths, over rocks and on a slight incline.

13 Ghar Dalam Cave Site

Ghar Dalam means ‘Cave of darkness’ in Maltese. The cave is 145-metre cavity of which the first 50 metres publicly accessible. The animal bones found within are evident proof that Malta was once linked to Sicily and to mainland Europe by a land bridge. Here you`ll find evidence of dwarf elephants, bears and wolves as well as the first human inhabitants.

Marsaxlokk Village

This village is known for being the main fishing village of Malta as well as the best place to see the brightly painted fishing boats. Enjoy lunch on own at one of fine local restaurants. Recommendations to be provided by guide.

14 Tartarun Restaurant Lunch or Dinner Reservations

Enjoy lunch on own at arguably one of Malta´s finest seafood restaurants - Tartarun. Their motto is “Make food simple and let things taste of what they are.” Enjoy the freshest fish and seafood that is often landed right on their doorstep by local fishermen. They are not afraid to experiment with traditional recipes creating highly innovative specials to compliment the menu.

Day 6

Central Malta and Prehistory

Hypogeum Visit

In addition to a multitude of temples above ground, Malta has the only subterranean temple in the world. Discovered in 1902 when the village of Paola was building homes, this remarkable temple 5000+ year old site only allows 10 visitors per hour! Another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

15 Private Falconry Experience

Lawrence is 44 years old and his life has revolved around birds since a very young age, until today most of the work he does also involves his birds, including his cultural and educational display at Wied i-urrieq. He became excited as he recalled the first moment he held a bird in his hand, a sparrow given to him by a neighbour while he was sitting on the doorstep aged 4, "I felt as if he had given me the world!"

Lawrence now has 11 birds of prey in his care, including various falcons, owls and hawks, among which are a Maltese Falcon (Peregrine Falcon) and Barn Owls (Barbaann). Five of them are trained to fly and return to him: a Harris Hawk, a Peregrine X Sayker Falcon, a Barn Owl, a Pharaoh Eagle Owl and a Sparrow Hawk.

Hagar Qim & Mnajdra Temples

Step back some 5500 years with a visit to the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Temple sites. The temples were excavated in 1839 and are thought to have been built to worship a type of fertility goddess. To put their age into perspective - they are around 1000 years older than the pyramids at Giza and Stonehenge. Who knew!?

16 Lunch Reservations at Alka Restaurant

Situated close to the Blue Grotto and with stunning views of the , ALKA offers the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience on any occasion. Specialising in fresh fish and seafood, the menu changes by season and includes the finest seasonal produce.

Evening Experience in the village of Lija

Private visit with the Hornyold-Stricklands

A visit with Robert and Deirdre Hornyold-Strickland opens a window into Malta's aristocracy and highlights a time period dating back to Lord Gerald Strickland, 1st Baron Strickland who was born in Malta in 1861 and served as Prime Minister of Malta from 1927 to 1932. The legacy of the Stricklands extended to the daughter of Lord Strickland, Mabel Strickland, who co- founded the Times of Malta and the Phoenicia Hotel. As a politician she fought for a free and open press as well as opposing independence from Great Britain. Having never married or had children of her own, Mabel Strickland's chosen heir was her great-nephew Robert Hornyold-Strickland who continues to reside at the family home with his wife Deirdre in Lija, Malta. They also call Sizergh Castle in England home.

17 Dinner Reservations at Bahia Bistro in Lija

Nestled in the winding narrow streets of Lija, an old town house built in the heart of the village over 200 years ago has been restored. Using skills developed in some of the best kitchens on the island, this chic bistro brings to the table innovation and respect towards an array of high quality ingredients.

Day 7

Northern Malta

Xemxija Heritage Trail Hike

The trail includes a Roman road, dry stone walls, a menhir, the Cave of the Galley, apiaries, an old carob tree, a burial cave, a Neolithic temple, a corbelled hut (girna), a grove, a Punic tomb, a farmer's hut, a troglodyte cave, a granary/well, unique prehistoric tombs, a pill-box defence post, recently discovered Roman baths, a farmhouse, Mistra Gate and the enigmatic cart ruts.

18 Mgarr Parish Church Bell Towers

Meet the caretaker at the Mgarr Parish Church and discover the intricacies of religious life in the village as it relates to the village feast and its bell towers.

Ghajn Tuffieha

Literally meaning "Apple's Eye", Ghajn Tuffieha offers a glimpse into Northern Malta's beautiful scenery. On top of the cliffs west of Gajn Tuffiea bay there is an old defense tower built in 1637. It is one of the seven towers built by Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris, of the .

19 Baia Beach Club Lunch Reservations

Baia Beach Club is easily Malta’s top beach club destination. Against a jaw dropping backdrop of the clear blue waters of Armier and stunning views of Gozo and Comino, they channel a laid back vibe while offering unparalleled service. Stylish, chic and with a serious dose of cool they continue to attract islanders and foreigners alike.

Gozo Channel Ferry

With only a 25 minute crossing from North Malta, you'll arrive at the Island of Calypso to discover the neat little gems and differences from its sister island.

20 Xlendi Bay Evening

Arrive in Xlendi Bay for gorgeous views and dinner at one of the fine restaurants located seaside.

Dinner Reservations at Ta' Karolina Restaurant

Enjoy dinner on own at the water's edge this evening. Xlendi Bay provides the perfect backdrop to an evening dinner experience. Enjoy a stroll along the bay and take it all in.

Day 8

Gozo Island Exploration

21 Biking Expereince on Gozo Island

Taking minor roads, country footpaths and off-road trails, you can explore the forgotten valleys and scenic routes of the island.

Fungus Rock

Just off the sheer cliffs of Western Gozo lies a rock, some 60 metres high. It guards a small deep lagoon and is obviously the remnant of what was once a sea cave whose roof collapsed, isolating it forever from the mainland. Indeed there are no mushrooms on Fungus Rock today however back during the Knights of St. John period, there was a certain mushroom that grew on it that was said to have been a miracle cure. Spend some time here at Dwejra and the inland sea - taking in all of the beauty.

22 The Xwejni Salt Pans

The production of sea salt has a long tradition in Gozo and the saltpans found near are still used today.

Wied il-Mielah

Explore one of Malta natural wonders. The valley of Wied il-Miela is rich in flora and a lovely place to walk especially in the autumn and spring. The way down the valley is like a botanical display of vegetation typical of the Mediterranean. Yellow rather than green is the primary colour here especially from late autumn until spring, when many fields bloom with the small yellow flower of the Cape Sorrel.

23 Ggantija Temples

Malta is so small, yet its history is massive. No visit to Gozo is complete without being a part of a remarkable history with a visit to the oldest freestanding structure in the world - the Ggantija Temples. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is 1000 years older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids at Giza.

Dinner Reservations at Tmun Restaurant

This little gem is hidden on the traditional working harbourside, just a stone’s throw from the ferry terminal. Sit in the winter garden style room or out on the sun-soaked terrace. Classic dishes take the lead, with a focus on local seafood; the owner will proudly show you the day’s catch.

Day 9

Treasures off the Coast of Gozo and Comino

24 Scuba Diving Morning

The Maltese Islands' clear blue Mediterranean sea is ideal for scuba diving. All three Islands offer some unique diving experiences with an abundance of reefs, caves and wrecks that make diving here some of the most interesting in the Mediterranean.

This includes 2 dives (1 shore and 1 boat) and equipment rental. Small Group Experience. Light Snacks and refreshments provided.

Half Day Kayaking off of Gozo

With the freedom of kayaks one can appreciate the beauty of the Maltese coastline and clear blue seas. Due to the nature of the Maltese islands' geology the island is littered with caves that one can freely explore with a kayak.

25 Dinner reservations at Ta' Frenc Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at Ta' Frenc Restaurant in the village of Xaghra. Ta' Frenc's award winning cooking and wine list is what makes dining here so special.

Day 10

Gozo's Culinary Delights

The Citadella & Victoria Self Exploration

Venture to the capital of Gozo for a leisurely walk through the village streets as we witness local people in their daily life. The Citadel or Citadella is an area known to have been first fortified during the Bronze Age and later developed by the Phoenicians and continues development until, by Roman times, it had become a complex Acropolis. Up until the 18th Century, it was the only fortified refuge against attack for the inhabitants of the island. Enjoy some free time roaming the back streets of the Capital City of Victoria.

26 Private Tasting at Tal-Massar Vineyards

Enjoy a private visit to Tal-Massar vineyards and winery to meet the winemaker to enjoy the fruits of his labour.

A Day with the Chef on Gozo Island (Dinner Experience)

Your day will be a special one. Your chef will guides you through the villages and coastal areas to gather food for a cooking experience. Engage with him in conversation about Maltese and Gozitan cuisine.

Day 11

Sailing on the Mediterranean

27 Bavaria Vision Sailboat Day

Enjoy a lovely day out coupled with a fantastic lunch. Your hosts will choose the best best locations to sail to.

Richard & Mary-Ann both have ICC sailing accreditation. Sailing experience includes the Gulf and San Juan Islands on Canada’s west coast, Sicily, Turkey, Thailand, Malaysia, Mallorca, Côte d’Azure, and the Ionian Islands in Greece. Mary-Ann raced Hobie- 16 catamarans in Oman. Having retired to Malta a year ago, they have lived in Canada, the Middle East, and East Malaysia (Borneo).

Namowan is a 2015 Bavaria Vision 46. She has teak decks, 1 forward cabin with an ensuite “head”, and one aft cabin w a separate “head”. With an off-set companionway, there is plenty of space for lounging in the cockpit or below deck. She is outfitted with regulation safety equipment. She is clean and bright and rides the waves like a beauty!

Arrive back on Malta

Mdina Private Palace Visit

One of Mdina's nicknames it Citta Nobile and it's no wonder. Noble families have occupied Mdina well before the Knights of St. John arrived in Malta. With just a couple of knocks on the door, you'll enter to find more than just a home. This rare and exclusive opportunity will have you meet a family member who will share their most prized possessions and the stories linked to them.

28 Note: Availability is confirmed, however the private visit is always at the discretion of the owner.

Traditional Instrument Artisan - Francesco Sultana

Meet one of Malta's most gifted artisans and musician. By day, Francesco works at Heritage Malta on restoration works. His hobby is in creating traditional Maltese instruments such as the bagpipe which is made from a whole goat. You'll love hearing his story and the fascinating history behind these instruments.

Dinner Reservations at De Mondion Restaurant - 1 Michelin Star

Set atop Mdina's centuries-old bastions, within the Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux, the de Mondion offers a unique fine dining experience, enhanced by truly spectacular panoramic views of the island from the terraces and charming features served in elegant surroundings. Consistently rated amongst the top restaurants in Malta for the soul nourishing cuisine, refinement and excellence, the de Mondion promises discreet yet impeccably attentive service allowing patrons the time and privacy to savour the cuisine, the company and the view.

With an exquisite cuisine combining the finest seasonal produce with innovation and expertise to create tantalizing dishes, the award winning kitchen brigade ably lead by talented Chef de Cuisine Kevin Bonello have and continue to delight the palate of a multinational clientele.

29 Day 12

Mdina - the Silent and Medieval City

You will feel the power as you enter the Old Capital City of Mdina and fall in love with it inasmuch as the families who continue to live here. It's Malta's only medieval city with a range of architecture that includes Norman and Arabic features. If you're a Game of Thrones fan, you will recognize the main gates immediately.

Rabat Village with War Shelters and Catacombs

The Arabs, during their 200 years of rule, divided the old Roman City of Melita into two: the citadel became known as Mdina and the rest of the area as Rabat. In Rabat we find St. Paul’s Church and Grotto, catacombs and World War II war shelters. We'll be taking a peak into these war shelters that are located in the village square.

30 Pastizzi Making Experience

Enjoy the unique opportunity to learn how to make the coveted passtizzi snack (a meal for some) in a private home. After watching a demonstration, get in there and try out your new found skill set. Bragging rights!

Traditional Sheep Farmers with Cheese Tastings

Enjoy the opportunity to visit a small rustic farm to see how the prized Maltese cheese called gbejna is made. Go from the pen to milking area and then short steps away to taste fresh, peppered and dried cheese. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the small scale production that is only sold to the neighboring village.

31 Rustic Farmer's Lunch on a Private Olive Grove

Enjoy a relaxing stay on a private olive grove to enjoy a rustic uncooked farmer's lunch that include some of the finest delicacies direct from the farmers. Enjoy the fantastic view!

Day 13

Western Malta

The Dingli Cliffs and Cart Ruts

You will be treated to the spectacular views of Dingli Cliffs which are the highest point of the Maltese Islands at 253 metres above sea level. The Cliffs propose a majestic, overlooking the small terraced fields below, the open sea and & the small uninhabited island (used as target practice during the WWII). Nearby arrive at Clapham Junction to discover the mysterious cart ruts. These deep ruts, rilles, tracks, grooves, channels left in Malta’s limestone but in such numbers, variety and confusion that they leave more questions than answers.

32 Verdala Palace - The President's Summer Residence

Arrive at the Verdala Palace - the Summer residence of the President of Malta for a private visit. Mr. Mifsud will guide you through the palace, explain its history and its present usage. Mr. MIfsud is the 3rd generation in his family to be caretaker of the Palace.

Private Visit to Ta' Betta Vineyards

Ta’ Betta Wine Estate comprises of 4 hectares of terraced land situated circa 200 metres above sea-level in an area known as the Contrada ta’ Brija in Girgenti limits of Siiewi, Malta. There are circa 15,000 vines planted on site and around 200 olive trees apart from fig trees, carob trees and miscellaneous indigenous Maltese flora.

The Winery is situated on the southern flank of the Estate enjoying views of the vineyard with the medieval town of Mdina as a backdrop, the Grand Master’s summer residence to the north-west, the Inquisitor’s summer residence to the west, and the Laferla Cross on the hill south-west.

Enjoy a private experience as you learn and taste the finest wines they have to offer.

33 Reservations at Fork & Cork Restaurant

The Fork and Cork situated in saqqajja Hill Rabat just outside the main gates of Mdina. Their menu changes by the season, ensuring a different experience in every visit. The limited menu ensures the use of the freshest of ingredients

Day 14

Departure Day

Today you depart our wonderful Islands. We hope that Malta measured up to your expectations and more. Safe travels and we hope to see you again. A Private transfer will take you to the airport.

34 La Valette VIP Service - Meet and Greet and Chauffeur Service Upon Departure

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by La Valette airport VIP staff. They will be escort you to the lounge and then to the gate to access the private car to the plane.

Itinerary Inclusions • Airport Transfers • 13 breakfasts (with hotel booking), 6 lunches and 1 dinner • Expert guiding and private car service included on touring days • Entrance to attractions and experiences indicated on the itinerary

Itinerary Exclusions • Attractions and meals not identified in the itinerary • Round-trip airfare and medical/travel insurance • Gratuities for guides and drivers

Value (Total in Euro NET) 12,559.31 Euro

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