Continued from Part 1, 2, 3, 4
Our final day in Malta predictably began with a walk to the Ponsonby bus stop, the first step in a multi-hop trip to San Anton Gardens. After fumbling through the first one at Gnien/Garcin, we gave up on the original bus route and just caught a bus to Piu, the bus stop nearest to our destination. A 15 min walk later, we were at San Anton gardens. The palace within is the official residence of the President of Malta, but we were here for another “historic” sighting.
It is a wonderfully calm and pretty place, and after a bit of walking around, we finally got what we came for – the place where Joffrey showed Sansa Ned’s head on a spike.
From Piu, we took a bus towards Cirkewwa and got down at Rotunda 3. We saw Gholja2 on the way, and only then realised how close we had been to this area the previous day. The region is Mosta, and we had come to see the Rotunda.
Another really serene place, despite the tourists. Our ticket allowed us to see the church, but to climb up the stairs, another ticket was required.
So we skipped that and went below to the war museum, which showcased Malta’s involvement in the second world war.
Lunch was planned at Ta’Marija, a 2 minute walk from the Rotunda. An absolutely charming place, it won us over in no time.
Bruschetta and crackers were on the house, and we ordered Maltese Farmhouse Snails cooked in a Provencial style for starters and Baked Boneless Rabbit filled with Rabbit Liver, Pistachios, Walnuts and Rice served with a fruity Port Wine sauce for the main course. Liquer based cocktails to wash it down.
It was the best meal we had in Malta, in terms of food, ambiance and the elegant and cheerful hospitality. If you’re in this part of the world, this place should be in your list.
We then took a bus back to the hotel. A nap later, we went over to the Point Shopping Mall nearby to do some minor shopping. I got myself what I think will be my travel bag from now on! Yay! An early dinner at Compass Lounge was our last meal in Malta.
After dinner, we took the bus to the area near the Sliema Ferry. We wanted to catch the sundown view of Valletta. It was as lovely as we had hoped for. Some last minute trinket shopping from a shop near the hotel was the last task of the day, before we went to sleep.
Cost: The trip cost us 2.5L, and that includes everything – tickets, hotel, meals, alcohol, entrance fees, bus passes, cabs and shopping.
Food+ Drinks: You can choose the range. Our meals varied from 14 to 50+ euros, but cheaper options are available too. Buying water in bulk is a good idea to save costs. There is some good craft beer to be had, and liquers are a must try.
Climate: The weather was perfect during the entire stay. Though the temperature was 16-20°C, I got around comfortably in shorts. A jacket is obviously a must.
Main attractions: We largely went for the Game of Thrones locations, but also loved the place for the forts, gardens, magnificent views, and clean air! Malta is also excellent for trekking, though we’re too lazy for that.