Visiting Malta - St Paul's Bay

For holidays this year, Malta is an exciting option where clear blue skies meet the deep blue of the Mediterranean, and where the landscape is dotted by honey hued limestone buildings.

Malta is a delight for all of the senses, everywhere you look. Malta also boasts a rich history and a host of historical sites to take in, from temples and palaces to forts and cathedrals. The northern stretch of Malta is a lesser known area than some parts of the island. The exception is the St. Paul's Bay area.

The St. Paul's Bay area

St. Paul's Bay is one of the many inlets on the island of Malta, about 10 miles from the capital Valletta on the north coast of the island. St. Paul's Bay stretches along Malta's coast, from Salina to Mistra, and inland to Ghajn Rihana, Pwales, Tal-Imdawra, Manikata and San Martin. It encompasses the areas of Wardija, Bugibba, Burmarrad and Qawra. St. Paul's Bay is surrounded by a tapestry of fertile valleys and hills.

The History of St. Paul's Bay

As the story goes, St. Paul's ship ran aground en route from the Holy Land to Rome. While marooned there, St. Paul was treated so well by the people of Malta that he thanked them by removing the venom from the island's poisonous snakes forever.

Holidays in St. Paul's Bay

There are two main sites to explore when you visit St. Paul's Bay. The first, St. Paul's Shipwreck Church (also known as Church of St. Paul's Bonfire), was constructed in the 14th century. This revered site sits on the waterfront at the spot believed to be where St. Paul came ashore. The other site, The Wignacourt Tower, was erected in 1609. The tower stands guard over the entrance to the bay. It is one of the largest towers built to defend Malta's coastline. Inside this two-floor structure you'll now find a small museum displaying artifacts from local history, but the most popular reason to visit the tower is at the top: the tower's summit offers visitors spectacular views of the bay.

St. Paul's Bay is the ideal holidays spot if you like to incorporate a bit of this and a bit of that into your holiday. Whether you want to take a meandering stroll around the harbour to gaze into the water, to indulge in a coffee and something sweet, or simply to relax and take in some rays, St. Paul's Bay can accommodate you. For the food lover in you, St. Paul's Bay has a beautiful array of choices. This area is well appointed by many tourist friendly cafes and restaurants. For a taste of more upscale dining, travel to Old St. Paul's Bay, where you'll find some of the swankier establishments. Or you can enjoy lunch at one of the Bay's many outdoor fish restaurants that serve up some of the best fish that Malta has to offer. If you want to do a little window shopping, take a stroll around the many shops located in the old village.

For a taste of the more modern side of the St. Paul's Bay region, check out the seafront at Bugibba, the hub of nightlife in the area. Here, you'll find a selection of trendy boutiques and restaurants. When the sun sets, indulge your inner rock star at Bugibba's many karaoke bars, double-down at its casino, or take in a film at its cinema. And if you were impressed with the fish restaurant you discovered at lunch time, why not return for a romantic dinner? Whatever you desire from your holiday in Malta, St. Paul's Bay delivers. And the best part is that all of the area's amenities are right at your hotel's front door.

St. Paul's Bay, Malta, is the perfect synthesis of old world charm and modern convenience. Whether you are seeking a vacation spot that will transport you back in time through its rich history or a place where you can dance the night away and bask in the sun by day, St. Paul's Bay could be the place for your holiday in 2009.

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