You may think Malta is the kind of place your grandparents holiday, but all that's changing. Malta is getting cool, and we're not the only ones to think so – Annie Mac was there this month doing her DJ thing at the first Lost & Found festival. But down time's essential, and we know where to find it. See you in 2016.
GHAJAN TUFFIEHA
This narrow stretch of sand is away from the roads and hotels (read between the lines – it's a bit of a walk). Having said that, it's well worth the effort – gentle waves, no crowds, and a little kiosk serving chilled Cisk, the local Maltese lager. For something more energetic, keep following the path for a blustery coastal hike. visitmalta.com
ST JOHN'S CO-CATHEDRAL
Churches are an integral part of the Maltese landscape, and the heart of the Maltese social and cultural life. So if, like us, you get off on baroque interiors and dazzling architecture, you better travel quickly (there are 360 to see). St John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta is one of the most impressive and accessible – the bling interior was designed for the Knights of St John, hence the name. Warning: don't visit the museum unless you're a fan of Flemish tapestries. We made that mistake for you.
NENU THE ARTISAN BAKER
Yeah it looks like a burned bit of pizza, but that's the point! The official name is a ftira, and it's a Maltese staple dish of well-cooked dough and toppings. There's a selection available at Nenu's bakery, but we recommend the angla l-Furnara – it comes loaded with onions, Maltese honey and anchovies, Malta's favourite fish. nenuthebaker.com
