Lonely Planet

Only three of Malta’s islands – Malta, Gozoand Comino – are inhabited, but together,they punch well above their weight in termsof historic and cultural sights. Valletta isthe country’s capital city and EuropeanCapital of Culture 2018. Its highlightsinclude the late 16th-century St John’sCo-Cathedral, which conveys much ofits fascinating history in its architecturalmix of Mannerist and Baroque styles.More about the islands’ rich past can bediscovered at the nearby Malta 5D audio-visual show, which includes 3D glasses andmakes up its other two dimensions with theuse of water sprays, wind, seat movementsand scents. The 18-minute show brings to lifethe history of the islands and is a guaranteedhit with kids of all ages (malta5d.com).``````However, it would be a waste of Malta’syear-round warm climate to spend any morethan those 18 minutes indoors. Get to knowthe country’s varied landscape by going rock-climbing, cycling or hiking across its limestoneterrain, or if you’re in a less active mood, makethe most of the quad bike hire on offer.For islands so steeped in history, there isa surprisingly futuristic touch to some ofthe transport options here. Segway toursare a popular choice, but don’t miss theRolling Geeks Tour, in which self-driveelectric cars take you around Malta islandand helpfully explain what you’re lookingat on the way (rolling-geeks.com). After ahigh-tech tour, wind down the old-fashionedway: on a sunset horseback ride along thecoast (goldenbayhorseriding.com).``````FIND OUT MORE ATHOMETURKEY.COMOn landLocal favouriteDig into thefried rabbit( a delicacy here )at Diar il-Bnietin Rabatdiarilbniet.comVisit maltauk.com and star t planning your family’s trip to Malta todayIMAGES: @beautifuldestinationsADVERTISEMENT FEATURE