Malta
Wellness and fine dining
A day dedicated to wellness with a revitalizing massage and good food and drink (because you deserve it after that long hike yesterday).
Deep tissue massage at Alchemy Spa
After the long hike yesterday, treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage at Alchemy Spa in Birgu. The small spa can only accommodate one client at the same time, so it really feels like a personalized experience. The lovely masseuse and owner really knows what she is doing and even ended up going 20 minutes over time as she wanted to make sure to remove all the tension (when does that ever happen?). I went with the 90min deep tissue massage (€90), but they offer a lot of different massages, as well as facials and various beauty treatments.
Take the ferry over to Valletta
An experience in itself, make sure to take the ferry at least once between the Three Cities and Valletta. It's the quickest and cheapest way (compared to taxi or bus) and the ride comes with beautiful views across the harbour. Don't forget to check their website to confirm the ferry is running.
Italian lunch at Nduja Osteria
Surprised by an afternoon downpour, I stumbled into Nduja Osteria to hide from the rain, but it turned out to be one of my favorite restaurants of the trip. With only a few tables, I recommend booking in advance and if possible going with a few people so you can try and share multiple dishes. I opted for the mussels and sea bass gnocchi which was simply divine.
To Hypogeum (or not)
The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum is a truly unique underground burial tomb that dates back to around 4000 BC. To preserve this true archaeological treasure, only 10 visitors are allowed each hour, so it's a must you book a visit well in advance (tickets can be sold out weeks in advance). I was not aware of the popularity and only discovered I missed out on tickets during lunch, so instead I had a relaxed afternoon reading by the waterfront. If you feel inspired and do get a chance to visit, let me know how it was!
Local dining at Tal-Petut
Restaurant Tal-Petut specializes in local dishes with a seasonal twist, where all ingredients are sourced locally (some straight from the garden of the owner). There is no set menu, and depending on the produce of the day, the chef will prepare a three-course sharing meal at a set price of €45 per person. Our dishes included a selection of vegetable antipasti, succulent pork belly, slow-cooked rabbit (a local delicacy), stuffed chicken with fresh figs and Christmas-inspired desserts. Definitely a highlight!
