Preluna Hotel, Sliema, Malta - Manchester

With its striking sunsets and honey-coloured stone set against the deep Mediterranean blue sea, the island of Malta is known for its relaxed atmosphere and pleasant climate along with a rich, diverse history, influenced by a mix of cultures, engraved in its beautiful architecture. We make our base in the popular seaside resort of Sliema at the Preluna Hotel, a perfect location to enjoy local scenic spots and leisurely seaside strolls. From here, we explore Malta's Lilliputian capital, Valletta, the ancient walled city of Mdina, Marsaxlokk Market and the Blue Grotto. We also visit the spectacular Three Cities - Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Sengla.What's Included?
IncludesReturn flights to MaltaAirport taxes & luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)Airport transfers in Malta28 nights all-inclusive at the Preluna Hotel, Malta (JG4+ rating)Welcome drink & water in room on arrivalHotel activities & entertainmentBuffet breakfast, served lunch (with menu on table) & dinnerSelection of house & beer & wine branded alcohol, soft drinks, tea & coffee (10am-11pm)Excursions to Valletta, Mdina, Marsaxlokk Market & Blue Grotto & Three Cities - Vittoriosa, Cospicua & SengleaServices of a visiting resort representative (minimum once per week)

Itinerary
Included ExcursionsValletta (half day)We visit the beautiful UNESCO-listed Valletta, a harbour city with a wealth of elegant 16th-century buildings, many of which have been internally converted into restaurants, boutiques and chic cafes. With everything within walking distance, it's easy to discover the capital's museums and main attractions, such as St John's Co-Cathedral, a wonderfully preserved Roman Catholic church, with domed ceilings and gilded walls, enveloped with intricate detailing. A peninsular, surrounded by the sea, Valletta is host to a range of eateries that sit on the scenic waterfront promenade, offering delicious authentic cuisine. Why not take a leisurely stroll, take in the views, enjoy some traditional rustic Maltese food and immerse yourself in the remarkable culture of this scenic treasure?Mdina & Mosta (half day)Resting atop one of the highest hilltops in Malta, within its golden-stone Arabic wall, is the exquisite city of Mdina, in the country's Northern region. Known as the 'Silent City', Mdina exudes a tranquil air of calm, while showcasing an extraordinary blend of baroque and medieval history, cultivated in its stunning buildings, enchanting palaces and winding narrow streets. Escape to a bygone world, far from the modern age and explore Saint John's Bastion and Saint Martin's Bastion with viewpoints of the glorious surrounding countryside. There's also the splendid Cathedral of Saint Paul, with its luxurious décor of marble floors and awe-inspiring ceiling paintings, where you can wander the various chapels of spectacular artworks.We leave Mdina through the Baroque-style Greek's Gate, located in the southwest corner of the city and head to Mosta in the very heart of Malta. A popular market town, at its centre, is a magnificent domed church which still bears the scars from the Nazi bombing campaign on the island.Marsaxlokk Market & Blue Grotto (half day)The fishing village of Marsaxlokk is our first stop. Discover the unique character of this community and browse the long stretch of local markets along the harbourside, selling local goods such as locally produced fruit jams, honey, fruit and wine, clothing and souvenirs, while multi-coloured boats bob in the harbour, in contrast to the glistening sea. Along the bay, there's a choice of restaurants and cafés, where you can sit and watch the world go by. We then step into a world of beauty and serenity as we visit the Blue Grotto (weather permitting - boat price not included) and the nearby complex of sea caves located on the Southern coast of Malta. Named Blue Grotto because of its incredible bright blue waters, the beauty of these caves reveals itself most with the sun shining down and reflecting off the seabed, resulting in a magical azure. Later, with the help of our guide, we explore Malta's unspoilt villages, where we are led through a maze of winding narrow streets, all with a story to be told.Three Cities & South Side (full day)We make our way to the Grand Harbour area, known as the Three Cities - Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Sengla. The connecting cities of Cospicua and Senglea were created by the Order of St John in the 16th and 17th centuries, whilst Birgu dates back to the Middle Ages. Throughout history, these fortified metropolises have provided a home and fortress for those who settled on the islands. We make time in Vittoriosa for a walking tour through the narrow streets, in the shade of historical buildings. Enjoy an abundance of stunning views from the tip of the peninsula, including the impressive Fort Sant Angelo.Hotel
Preluna Hotel, Sliema, MaltaJG4+ rating, locally rated 4-starLocated in a prime spot on the Sliema Seafront, guests can enjoy scenic strolls and the beautiful Mediterranean scenery. The Preluna Hotel is well-known for its friendly and personalised service. Rooms are spacious and modern, many offering spectacular sea views. Bedrooms feature tea and coffee-making facilities, flat-screen TV, minibar, hairdryer, direct dial telephone and free Wi-Fi. Hotel facilities include an indoor pool, spa, sauna and gym (charges may apply).Hotel RatingJG4+ ratingAccommodation in our JG4+ category is of an even higher standard, typically offering a wide range of facilities and services. Bedrooms are designed to make your stay the most comfortable possible and the staff provide a service that reflects the detail and quality. You can also expect higher standards of food and beverages.