The lively resort of Qawra in Malta is a great destination for those seeking an array of cultural, natural and gastronomic gems in a sunny setting. Situated near Buġibba and Salina, Qawra is a hotspot for a range of watersport activities, but equally, you will find people simply bathing along the picturesque coastline or taking romantic moonlit strolls by the sea. It has a lively nightlife with bars, clubs and restaurants for those who like to find fun once the sun goes down.
Sightseeing
The Malta National Aquarium is an absolute must-visit during your stay as this will allow you to see all kinds of weird and wonderful creatures from the depths below. The highlight is, arguably, the 12m underwater tunnel which enables you to walk through a huge tank and get up close and personal with a number of amazing species. After all this excitement you will fancy a refreshing beverage, so be sure to stop off at the glamorous open-air Cafe del Mar next door for your favourite tipple and great views out to sea.
Car enthusiasts will certainly want to stop by the Malta Classic Car Collection in St. Paul’s Bay. Here you will find a huge collection of iconic, mint-condition vehicles alongside all kinds of other cool ’50s and ’60s memorabilia. Wignacourt Tower is another great sight to behold in St. Paul’s Bay; this bastioned watchtower was the first built by Grand Master Wignacourt and offers dazzling views out to sea along with an interesting museum housing a collection of guns and armour.
Natural Landmarks
Qawra Point is the place to go for diving as it provides dives suitable for all levels. One has an average depth of 6m and is ideal for beginners, whilst the second will take you to 30m and provides the opportunity to explore a cave and the inland sea. The third dive reaches 40m and provides the opportunity to see all kinds of sponge colonies.
If chilling on the beach is more your style then Buġibba Beach will be calling your name. Buġibba has spots along the coast where you can stretch out on the rocks (like the locals do) or you can head to the manmade Buġibba Perched Beach which has a Blue Flag award, so you know that it is clean and safe. No matter where you end up, you will be able to enjoy azure waters, lovely weather and a great sense of calm.
Gastronomic Highlights
If you are anything like me then you will agree that good food is a vital component of a good holiday. Fortunately, Qawra (and all of Malta) has many gastronomic highlights to try during your time here. Check out the following:
Tarragon: You can’t beat views from the harbour out to sea whilst dining on fresh fish and sipping on fine wine. This is what you get at Tarragon, which has an upmarket yet informal style and serves a range of tantalising Mediterranean/fusion dishes.
Ta’Pawla: Found in Buġibba (a great spot after a day on the beach) is this friendly eatery which serves up authentic Maltese cuisine – think rabbit in garlic and octopus stew, along with plenty of pizzas, pastas and grilled meats. It is small but always busy which creates a fun and lively atmosphere inside.
Venus: Also in Buġibba is Venus – perhaps the best place to take that special someone for a romantic night with plenty of delicious food and good wine. It features a modern fusion menu for interesting takes on traditional ingredients and the sophisticated interior is sure to impress.
How to Get There
Flights to Malta airport (MLA) take around 4 hours from the London airports and is offered by Air Malta, easyJet, British Airways and Ryanair. Qawra is around 25 minutes by road from Malta Airport, so you will want to pre-book a Shuttle Direct transfer so that you can get to your hotel with minimal stress. Speaking of hotels…
Where to Stay
Salini Resort: Overlooking Salina Bay and just a 3-minute walk to the beach, you are very well situated at this 4-star hotel which features spacious rooms with sea or countryside views and an ensuite bathroom. The hotel also has 2 outdoor pools, 2 tennis courts, an indoor pool, fitness facilities and a stylish restaurant and bar.
Seashells Resort: Found on St. Paul’s Bay, this friendly seafront hotel has stylish rooms complete with a TV, private bathroom and most have sea views. The hotel also has an onsite restaurant, lounge bar, a wellness centre and a swimming pool with a hydromassage corner. Previous guest have spoken highly of the location and tasty food.
Qawra Palace Hotel: This 4-star hotel overlooking Salina Bay boasts plenty of great facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools, a mini-golf course, a tennis court, a spa and an internal garden. A buffet breakfast is available each day and the restaurant serves international food at both lunch and dinner. The rooms, meanwhile, come with a TV, fridge and have views of the bay or internal courtyard.
About Shuttle Direct:
Shuttle Direct can eliminate the stress of arranging travel on your holiday with an efficient, affordable and reliable transfer service. We can arrange safe passage between airports, hotels, train stations and any other areas of interest throughout Europe. Book now and we will handle the rest.
