It can get pretty busy on the Maltese Islands at this time of year. Consider these peaceful spots to take time out from the mayhem!
Chinese Gardens of Serenity, Santa Lucija
If you're looking for serenity, you can't get much better than visiting the Garden of Serenity. This garden granted by the Chinese embassy is made up of four small gardens with an intricately crafted layout that symbolises the entire journey we travel through from birth to death, embracing the Yin and Yang philosophy. You can wander through the grounds, taking in the striking colours, adorned architecture, and the mesmerising sound of water and birds. Not bad for a pocket in the middle of an urban area!
Buskett Woodlands, Buskett
Some parts look like they've come right out of a fairy tale, while there are concealed nooks which could be from The Secret Garden. There are so many trees and fauna that it's the perfect place to find a cool, shady spot to chill and just be still. It's also surprisingly undisturbed - even in summer - making it easy to completely wind down and take all the nature in.
Bibliotheca (The National Library of Malta), Valletta
Why this splendid building isn't swarming with tourists daily is a mystery, yet it always seems to be peaceful once inside the thick, 18th-century neoclassical walls. The origins of the National Library of Malta go back to 1555, when Grand Master Claude de la Sengle decreed that all books belonging to deceased members of the Order of St John are to be passed on to the Order's treasury. Apart from some amazingly old publications, the interior architecture is truly something to marvel at.
Nature parks around the islands
Believe it or not, there's a choice of nature parks in Malta. The islands are not huge on wildlife, but if you're interested in birds, reptiles, and some peace and quiet, a nature park may be the way to go for you. The least crowded nature parks include Bird Park Malta in Burmarrad, which is a conservation park with various birds and other wildlife, plus guided tours, hands-on activities, and a cafe. Xrobb l-Ghagin is relatively unknown, consisting of over 155,000 square metres on a jutting peninsula with scenic views of Malta’s southeast within the locality of Marsaxlokk. Further to this, there's Il-Majjistral Nature & History Park in Manikata, Ghadira Nature Reserve in Mellieha, and Wildlife Park Malta in Rabat, amongst others.
Get on a boat
Chartering a boat is not the cheapest option to get away from the crowds, but it's certainly an effective one! Once out in that calm and vast Mediterranean water, you'll feel free and at one with the clear blue sky and water below. Just insist with your skipper that you don't anchor at a busy bay - otherwise you're back to square one.