Situated in the central town of Attard, San Anton Gardens, officially the grounds of Malta’s President’s Palace, offers a green oasis and a well-cultivated retreat from the hustle and bustle of this suburban area. This park is undoubtedly a staple on any visitor’s route, offering a scenic and peaceful refuge from the moment you enter the gate. 

Stroll through the honeycombed entrance of San Anton Gardens, trailing its winding pathways, and you will be immediately struck by the rustic comfort of the gurgling fountains and its wooded stretches, where cypress, jacarandas, and araucaria trees drape their verdant canopies. 

Built by Grand Master Antoine de Paul in 1623 as the grounds of his summer residence, San Anton was thrown open to the public in 1882. Not much has changed since those days: peacocks still strut their stuff by the bird aviary, while ducks and swans glide across the mossy ponds, sliced by shafts of light cutting through the branches overhead. 

And as an added bonus, the Malta Horticultural Society also usually celebrates the arcadian atmosphere through its annual spring horticultural show, however, it's uncertain as to whether it will be happening this year due to the pandemic and restrictions. Flower arrangements, potted plants as well as the cultivation of fruit and vegetables are usually celebrated, against the backdrop of dancing and live music, giving you all the more reason to visit!

Meanwhile, the President’s Kitchen Garden, situated right behind the palace and linked to the gardens by an arched walkway, is the perfect cap to the day. Cool down with a drink, some ice cream or entertain the kids with a visit to the animal park, where they can see donkeys, ponies, cranes, goats, emus and other animals. Bonus! Profits go to the Malta Community Chest Fund.

San Anton Gardens is open every day, from 7am to 6pm in summer, closing at 5pm during the winter months. The President’s Kitchen Garden is open from 9am to 10pm.