Where to go to escape the World Cup madness
by Yellow
World Cup fever is upon us. For one month every 4 years, the Maltese Islands are overtaken by the much-awaited matches. Everywhere you go, people sit frozen in front of a big screen watching their favourite team. Goals and football tactics become the only topic of conversation.
But not ‘everyone’ actually cares about the World Cup, right? Some of us would rather get away from it all.
If you’re one of those people, here are some ideas of places to visit to escape the football madness between the 14th of June and the 15th of July!
Fomm ir-Riħ
Since our beaches are always jam-packed with people in summer, they’re not really the most peaceful of locations. Fomm ir-Riħ Bay, in the limits of Baħrija, is an exception. It doesn’t get as busy, and offers one of the most breathtaking sea views.
Once you get to Fomm ir-Riħ after a 15-minute trek, you’ll find green-covered cliffs, unbelievably blue sea and one of the island’s only pebble beaches. All in all, the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle!
Mdina
There’s a reason it’s called the Silent City. From the fascinating museums and palaces, to the hilltop views of the whole of Malta, our old capital city lives up to its reputation.
A stroll through Mdina’s narrow streets, lined with medieval and baroque architectural marvels, will transport you into the past. The majestic fortifications do a great job at keeping out the noise and chaos.
Bonus: Mdina might be the most obvious choice when it comes to quiet cities, but the old village of Isla in the south of Malta, also known as Senglea, deserves an honourable mention.
The Xgħajra coastline
An unlikely seaside location on the outskirts of Żabbar, the small village of Xgħajra is a hidden gem ideal for relaxed leisure time away from World Cup live screenings.
Apart from swimming or sunbathing in the bay, there are plenty of old landmarks to admire, including the iconic Dar tas-Soru (Nun’s House) which was immortalised in the very popular local 70s TV series.
Dingli Cliffs and Buskett Gardens
There’s nothing quite like a hike around the village of Dingli, perched on the edge of a cliff, to forget about the stresses of everyday life.
The majestic Verdala Palace, along with its neighbouring Buskett Gardens, offer a completely different setting from the well-known part of Dingli - the cliffs and the accompanying sea view of Filfla. The great thing is that they are two sides of the same coin, making up one serene Utopia.
Ta’ Pinu in Għarb
If you’re up for a unique hike along the Gozitan countryside, dedicate a day to the quaint village of Għarb, particularly the shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu.
A popular destination for pilgrimages, the tranquil sanctuary was built in front of the original church, and both are a sight not to be missed. You can also embark on a “treasure hunt” opposite the church, where a series of 14 marble statues representing the Via Crucis run up the hills of Għarb.
Comino
On those days when you really can’t take the World Cup madness, why not go on an adventure to the famous island between Malta and Gozo?
Two sandy beaches, plenty of coves and caves, and an abundance of wildlife — there’s so much to discover, both on land and under the sea surrounding Comino!
These places are all perfect escapes from the football madness. But what if you don’t feel like leaving the house? Sleep off the World Cup on a comfortable mattress or stick in some ear plugs to block the noise and relax.
Whatever your journey is, always use yellow.com.mt to help you find exactly what you need anywhere in the Maltese islands.
