With over 7,000 years of history, Malta is the ultimate holiday destination for any history buff!
Home to some of the oldest free-standing temples in the World, the Islands have also played host to the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Knights of St. John, Napoleon and the British Empire. A jaunt to its phenomenal fortifications, and an open-mouthed-gape at its truly awe-inspiring architecture is a must.
No trip to Malta is complete without going on a journey through time, from the prehistoric times to modern day.
Join us in September as we explore the island while we stay in the vibrant harbour town of Valleta. Our guest guide will be retired Army Major John Cotterill who has been visiting Malta for many years both as guide and on holidays. John was recently made a “Fellow” of the Guild of Battlefield Guides with a depth of knowledge to match.
Our tour will look at the 11th Century arrival of the Normans, through the epic Great Siege of 1565 to the departure of the Royal Navy in the 1970s.
After the construction of the Suez Canal , Malta assumed even great strategic importance for the British Empire. We will take you to the “Top of the World “ for the best view of the amazing defensive works that are the Victoria Lines. (Note Cotterill seated 3rd from right).
In the Great War Malta became known as the “ Nurse of the Mediterranean “ as many thousands of casualties from both the Dardanelles and Salonika were evacuated there. We will take you to the graves of some of those men who did not make it home and some of those who treated them too.
Malta’s heroic defence in WW2 resulted in the unique award of the George Cross. Hear what it was like to be on , above, under or around the island as a Maltese civilian or combatant, a British fighter pilot, anti-aircraft gunner, submariner or bomb disposal expert.
Being home to an abundance of outstanding produce, a sea brimming with delicious seafood, and recipes dating back centuries, food and drink are the very essence of Maltese Culture and many lovely restaurants are on your doorstep in Valletta, where you can also choose to sip a classy cocktail in one of the swanky wine and cocktail bars.
Our five day tour visits Mdina, the Victoria Lines, Migra-I-Ferha Bay, Barakka Gardens, Ta’Qali Airfield, the Air Raid shelters at Mellieha and hear of the miracle of Mosta Church.
For those joining the tour you can also look forward to relaxing, after the days out, by your Hotel Pool or Spa at the Grand Hotel Excelsior with just a few minutes walk to the city restaurant district. Please join John and Julian on this trip to the Jewel of the Med.
Interested in exploring Malta with us?
Check out our Fortress Malta tour page for more information on upcoming dates and full itinerary.
