Enjoy festivals and fireworks in Malta this Easter
Celebrate Easter in Malta and you can experience the traditional pageantry and festivals of this fascinating country, combining a cultural escape with some spring sunshine on this magical Mediterranean island.
Stay at the historic Phoenicia Hotel, set into the bastions of capital city Valletta, and you'll be in prime position to enjoy the many events.
On Good Friday, the Maltese come out in their thousands to visit the local churches and witness the traditional procession commemorating the Passion of Christ, with some participants dressed up as religious characters. Easter Sunday itself is a wonderful celebration and visitors will see children carrying the typical Easter pastry, called a figolla, to be blessed, as they welcome in the start of spring.
Or, if you're planning a later break thanks to the extra bank holiday, you can enjoy Malta's International Fireworks Festival the following weekend of 29 April, with a scintillating pyromusical display illuminating the sky over the Valletta sea front.
Whether you're after an extended city break or a relaxing retreat, at Phoenicia Hotel you can enjoy the best of both worlds. The hotel's pool deck is tucked into the city walls and reached by a stroll through the exquisite gardens, making it the perfect hideaway for a spot of secluded sunbathing, with typical April temperatures of up to 26° Celsius. For those who prefer exploring there are plenty of breathtaking beaches within easy reach, as well as Valletta with its café-culture, open air markets, designer shopping and fascinating architecture; all just a stroll away.
Rooms at the Phoenicia start from £80* per person per night, including breakfast, and you'll find a host of wining and dining options within the hotel such as the award-winning Phoenix Restaurant with its open air terrace, the Pegasus Brasserie, the Palm Court Lounge and the charming Club Bar. To book visit: phoeniciamalta.com
With flights from £39.99** and direct routes from 16 UK departure airports, Malta is ideal for a spring getaway, with a flight time of just over three hours.
For more information on Malta, go to: visitmalta.com
*Subject to availability. Based on a Classic Plus room with city views.
**Based on flights with Ryanair from London Luton on Wednesday 20 April 2011. See ryanair.com for details.
