Search for vacation rental homes in Island of Malta

Malta: A Big Vacation on a Little Set of Islands!

When you look at a map, you would never suspect that the three islands that make up the Malta archipelago were as rich in history and military importance as any in Europe. The Romans, Normans, Byzantines, and the Argons ruled the islands. Leaders like Hitler and Napoleon Bonaparte took an interest in the region. During WWII, the islands were bombed mercilesslessly by the Nazis in an attempt to bring the islands under Italian rule. The strategy failed. Today, Malta stands her ground as a historical focal point. Its megalithic temples are the oldest known human structures in the world, while the idols found there are the world's oldest statues of deities. Malta is also a great spot for a Mediterranean vacation. Rich in historical sights, Malta is also filled with beautiful beaches that bring outdoor sports enthusiasts in droves. A day's itinerary can include water skiing, scuba diving, swimming, snorkeling, sight-seeing, hiking, or just lying about on some golden sand beach.

The capital of Malta is the fortress city of Valletta. Built by the Knights of St. John, Valletta has many architectural influences. It is a masterpiece of the Baroque, and has a healthy dose of Gothic influence as well. It is a city rich in European art, and has been given a World Heritage City designation. The absolute can't-miss site is St. John's Cathedral. The exterior mirrors the fortified theory behind Valletta itself. The interior is a lavish monument to the Baroque period, and shows the Knights' deep appreciation and patronage of culture and the arts. The life of St. life is depicted on the intricate carved stone walls and painted vaulted ceiling and side altars.

Valetta offers all sorts of shopping opportunities. The side streets are filled with boutiques that sell everything from historical crafts to local pastries. The shops along both Republic and Merchants Streets offer fashions by well known European designers and upscale jewelry stores that will entice any bauble and trinket collector.

Malta island is peppered with over 20 beaches that offer differing types of sun worshiping options. Paradise Bay, on the northern tip of Malta, offers spectacular views of neighboring Gozo and Comino islands. This small less-traveled beach is reached by taking a steep set of steps that begin at a parking area. The trip is worth the trek, however, as visitors are rewarded with clear water, golden sands, and a bit of privacy. For a different type of beach experience head to the Sliema Beaches, just east of Valletta. From Qui-si-Sana in Sliema to Balluta Bay in St. Julian's, it is one long stretch of rocky shore, but wildly popular with sun bathers and swimmers. Steps and handrails placed every so often allow easy access to the water. There are plenty of flat rocks to spread a towel on. Mellieha Bay is Malta's largest and most popular sandy beach. Located on the west coast of the island, there are no undercurrents here so the bay offers safe bathing, and the shallow waters make it ideal for children.

The three islands that comprise the archipelago make for spectacular dive destinations that delight scuba enthusiasts world wide. Anchor Bay, located on the northern portion of Malta, offers wonderful dives that are accessed from a pier just offshore. Underwater caves and boulders that line the sea bottom make for some interesting nooks and crannies to explore. On the southern portion of the island, divers flock to the watery grave of the Blenheim Bomber. This WWII bomber sits in 40-feet of water. The wings and engine are intact, but the fuselage has been damaged beyond visibility. The area has become a man-made reef that attracts a wealth of sea life.

A Malta vacation is a combination of historically important sight-seeing and a fun-in-the-sun extravaganza! Take in the museums, monuments, and historical locations as you ponder the incredible importance these small islands had in shaping the course of the modern world. Or forget about history all together, and head out in the sunshine on one of the many beaches for some lying about in the Mediterranean sun. Malta is waiting, ready to offer vacationers a prime vacation location. So, aren't you ready for the journey?