Mellieha, on the island of Malta, is the perfect destination for a family-friendly holiday. There are great activities for the whole family to enjoy in this northernmost village of the main island. Warm weather and picturesque scenes combined with easy access to a range of amenities might just make this location ideal for your next holiday. Here are a few highlights.
Mellieha Bay
Also known as Ghadira Bay, this is Malta’s largest sandy beach, and also the most popular. The presence of shallow waters for a significant stretch of the beach means that it’s safe for children to splash around and enjoy playing under adult supervision. There are also designated swim zones if anyone fancies going a bit further out. Smaller children can busy themselves building sandcastles and eating ice cream while mum and dad take the opportunity to sunbathe, enjoy the sea or relax with a good book. Watersports such as paddle boating, canoeing and jet-skiing can keep older children entertained, and there’s a range of beachside eateries to be taken advantage of when tummies start grumbling.
The Red Tower (St. Agatha’s)
The Red Tower sits on top of a ridge with 360° views over the north of Malta and seems to sit somewhat out of place in the skyline, but once seen it is very tempting to go in for a closer look! The tower was of great strategic importance in years gone by, as it is perfectly placed to protect the bay of Mellieha from incoming invaders and communicate with similar towers on Comino and Gozo by lighting beacons. It was built in the 17th century but has seen extensive military action throughout the years, even functioning as a signal station in World War Two.
The tower sadly fell into disrepair after the war, but a restoration project began in 1998 to rebuild it to its former glory, repairing a turret and securing the walls. It has a really interesting history to learn about – there is even a suit of armour that visitors are allowed to try on. It is now completely safe to visit and has become very popular with tourists.
Island Hopping
On your visit you should definitely take some time to visit Camino and Gozo, the islands to the north of the main island of Malta.
Camino
A regular ferry service can take you from Malta’s northernmost tip to Comino in 25 minutes. Comino is a very small island, mid-way between Mellieha and Gozo, but very popular to visit during the summer due to its main attraction – the Blue Lagoon. The crystal clear water of this beautiful lagoon is a genuine delight for swimming. In peak season, the island is very busy so go before or after July and August if you’d like to explore the island as a whole with relative ease.
Gozo
Gozo is the second largest island in the archipelago but much quieter than mainland Malta. In comparison, Gozo is much less built up, with a sparser population and a more rural environment. While you’re on the Gozo ferry, it’s worth heading up to the top deck to enjoy stunning views of the islands. You might even be able to spot dolphins in the water if you’re lucky. The island has a claim to fame in that several big budget film productions have been shot here. A number of scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed here and a tower on the clifftop was depicted in film as the prison that held The Count of Montecristo.
Popeye Village
Popeye village is another legacy of film production in Malta, famously the site of the 1980 musical production ‘Popeye’ film set. Today the village is open to the public and is a major attraction with many fun activities to be enjoyed by all the family. There are water games and play areas for kids and a nine-hole mini golf course. There are a number of entertaining animation shows and even a Popeye comic museum.
Popeye village is even available to be hired for weddings for young couples seeking a truly unique location!
Where to Stay
Pelican Court is a fabulous three-bedroomed apartment close to Mellieha Bay and Popeye village, with a fully kitted-out kitchen and great living room facilities. The beachfront property has a balcony where views across the ocean can be savoured.
Another great option is Luna Holiday Complex, which is only 450 yards away from Mellieha Bay Beach. There are two large swimming pools and a range of bars and restaurants so you’ll never grow bored (or hungry). The hosts are fantastic, regularly putting on themed evenings at the restaurants, such as carvery nights and barbecues. A continental breakfast is served daily and there is fantastic live music to entertain at night. Studio apartments and a penthouse suite are suitable for couples or families.
How to Get There
From the UK it’s just a short flight to your holiday! Once you land, a convenient Malta airport transfer can take you the rest of the way to your accommodation. The best idea is to pre-book your Malta airport transfer before you leave home. This way your holiday really will begin as soon as you step off the plane.
Overview
- UK to MaltaFlight Time: approx. 3 hours 5 minutes
- Airport to Your Accommodation Distance: 23 kilometres
- Time Taken for Shuttle Direct Malta Airport Transfer: 29 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct offers reliable private transfer services that make reaching your accommodation a breeze! We will pick you up from the airport and drop you off at your destination – you don’t have to worry about a thing. Make your Malta airport transfer smooth and stress free by booking with Shuttle Direct in advance.
