Following the script of our one week trip to Malta, today we went to visit Blue Grotto, Golden Bay and Mdina.
Tuesday – 06/20/2023
We had breakfast at the hotel and set off to explore the Blue Grotto on the other side of the main island. We drove for half an hour and arrived at a very close, well-marked parking lot called Blue Fritzi Parking on Google Maps.
We crossed the street and went to see the Xutu Tower and we loved the view from there. We didn't get to go up the tower because the kids were excited about the boat ride, but it certainly must have a spectacular view too.
Boating in the Blue Grotto
We went down the hill to take the tour and on the way we bought some drinks and ice cream to cool down. We saw the kiosk where all the tours are sold and I was relieved to know that I wouldn't have to search for the cheapest company, etc. The price is fixed and that's it. We rented the private boat for 80 euros so we could go at our leisure – thanks, brother! – and in less than five minutes we were on a small boat heading towards the beauties of the region.
We went into many beautiful caves and took lots of photos, of course, but unfortunately we couldn't go into the water because it was infested with jellyfish. We were shocked by the blue of the sea, especially against the reflection of the sun. It's impressive!
Our sailor's name was Alfred Cutajar and he told us that he had caught the largest great white shark in the country's history in 1987. He showed us the animal's tooth hanging from his neck and everything. I believed him at the time, but my Marcelos thought it was all nonsense. I did some research later and it turns out it's true. I found it on google some articles about it. Cool, huh?
In short, we loved the trip! It must have lasted no more than 1 hour, but I could have spent a whole day there exploring those wonderful caves. When we got back to the pier, we decided to go into the water when we saw that there weren't that many jellyfish, but unfortunately, right when I went in, there was one practically chasing me (I'm exaggerating...lol). We were able to enjoy ourselves a bit, cool off, but it certainly wasn't a relaxing dive. It was more about knowing that we went in and not regretting it later! HAHAHA
We then caught a ride in a golf cart for a few euros to our parking lot and continued on to our next stop.
Lunch and beach in Golden Bay
The children slept on the way between Blue Grotto and Golden Bay, which also lasted about half an hour, and I stayed in the car with them while my brother and husband went to the restaurant with a sea view to get our lunches ready. When they woke up, we joined them and satisfied our hunger. The food was OK, nothing special, but the Maltese wine I ordered was horrible! I do not recommend it.
Then we went to the beach, rented a parasol and 2 chairs for 15 or 20 euros, I don't remember exactly, and spent a good amount of time enjoying the place. The sea water was nice, the beach was sandy, full but not crowded... it was a delight for everyone.
As the day drew to a close, we decided to visit Mdina, a city highly recommended in my guide.
Late afternoon in Mdina
We drove for about 20 minutes from Golden Bay to the city of Mdina and we parked the car in a large parking lot just outside the wall. We were thrilled when we saw the architectural beauty of the exterior of what is believed to be the oldest city on the island. Check it out:
Right away, my brother said that Game of Thrones must have been filmed there and when we researched it, it really was. The imposing main gate is so striking! We entered the silent city We were in love with everything around us. Luckily, the heat had subsided because the sun was already setting and the city was super empty, so the walk was very pleasant. I went into the Mdina Glass store to buy a mini souvenir and we continued walking without worrying too much about cars, since there were very few cars passing by there. I think only residents' cars are allowed.
I quickly entered St Paul's Cathedral, because it was already closing, but I was able to see its incredible interior:
We then walked to Bastion Square to see the view of the city's surroundings and then we went looking for a restaurant for dinner.
We went to the Coogi's and although our table was not well located, with no view or garden around it, we really enjoyed the atmosphere. The food was very tasty, but the children were very tired and we were unable to relax and enjoy ourselves as we would have liked.
We then returned to the car and I found the city even more beautiful at night!
On the way back to the hotel, I thought the kids were going to sleep, but they were chattering the whole time, with Paddy teaching Ju how to say words in English. We died laughing!
A delicious family day out, just the way I like it. 🙂
