Co-op Holidays reveals lesser-known Maltese experiences

To help travellers discover more than just its coastline this summer, Natalie Quiney, Content and Ecommerce Manager, at Co-op Holidays, the in-house tour operator for Your Co-op Travel, has revealed the lesser-known parts of the island which are well worth a visit:

Explore hidden historical gems
 

Scattered across the archipelago are glimpses into Malta’s 7,000-year-old history, including the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa, the oldest Marian shrine in Malta. Travellers can book an excursion to explore the island’s intertwining history, as the site is thought to be the place of worship for the nymph Calypso as well as the first consecrated church in Malta.

Discover unique souvenirs & local artisans
 

 Nestled between Wied is-Sir Street and Nicolo Isouard Street near the famous Mosta Rotunda church, Mosta Monti market hosts a maze of stalls to explore. From fresh local produce to traditional clothing stalls, travellers can spend a morning collecting unique souvenirs.

To the south of the town, Ta’ Qali’s Crafts Village is a vibrant artisan hub, where visitors can purchase unique handmade products. Travellers can watch glass blowing workshops or peruse the traditional crafts of the island, including lace making and limestone carvings.

Dine like a local
 

To get a taste for authentic Maltese delicacies, including the national dish of Malta, Stuffat tal-Fenek (rabbit stew), travellers should head to Tal-petut in Vittoriosa on the southwest side of the island. Other spots for refreshing Mediterranean cuisine include one80 Kitchen in Mġarr and The Stone Crab at Xlendi Bay to truly dine like a local!

Head to lesser-known festivals

Traditional village feasts (festas) occur throughout the summer months such as the annual feast of Santa Marija (15th August), celebrated in seven different localities, so head to the likes of Ghaxaq or Qrendi for festivities that will not disappoint.

Malta also nurtures a flourishing music scene, including September’s Malta Weekender – which is set to feature Liam Gallagher – and October’s Notte Bianca, which transforms the capital city by nightfall.