Hidden Malta – secret beaches, restaurants and bars by those in the know

MALTA is a popular holiday destination and tourists from around the world flock to the islands.

But that doesn’t mean it’s without some secret spots that those in the know can visit to get away from the crowds.

AlamyMalta is a popular holiday destination – but we’ve rounded up some secret beaches, bars and restaurants[/caption]

We’ve rounded up eight of Malta’s best secret beaches, restaurants, bars and picture-perfect spots so you can get the most out of your next trip.

Imgiebah Bay

Imgiebah Bay is a quiet beach with crystal clear waters and a cove, ideal for people who want to snorkel and sunbathe.

There is a long road to get to the bay which keeps tourists away, meaning it remains one of the most secluded beaches in Malta.

Tal-Ingliz Restaurant

Tal-Ingliz Restaurant is perfect for tourists looking to eat some traditional Maltese food.

Serving up dishes including snails, pasta and rabbit, the reasonably-priced restaurant is popular with meat lovers.

It’s up in the north of Malta in Mgarr so if you’re visiting the town it’s worth stopping and grabbing a bite to eat.

ReutersBrits looking to grab a meal away from the crowds can visit restaurants tourists don’t know about[/caption]

San Blas Bay

San Blas Bay is on the island of Gozo and has orange sand and stunning blue water perfect for taking a dip.

The beach is only accessible via a narrow road, the last part of which is closed to traffic because it is so steep.

So most tourists don’t fancy making the journey down, but for those that do it is a peaceful, quiet spot great for sunbathing.

GettyIf you’re looking for a secluded beach, Malta has a host of quiet spots – you just need to make the journey down to them[/caption]

Hole in the Wall

Hole in the Wall is the oldest bar in Malta, but you’d be forgiven for walking straight past it.

As its name suggests, the bar is tucked in a narrow alley in the backstreets of Sliema, so it’s an easy one to miss.

The bar does more than just serve drinks – it hosts live music, art exhibitions, film nights and talks.

Xwejni Salt Pans

The Xwejni Salt Pans are on the north coast of the island of Gozo, and are used for salt production.

The 350-year-old salt pans look like a checkerboard and stretch roughly 350km along the coast, protruding out into the sea.

The basic salt production process is mainly done by hand and visitors can meet the family that have preserved the salt pans for generations.

The salt pans are a stunning spot that not many tourists visit – perfect to get a snap for Instagram.

GettyThe Xwejni Salt Pans are a stunning spot that not many tourists visit – perfect to get a snap for Instagram[/caption]

ALKA Restaurant

ALKRA Restaurant is a typical Mediterranean restaurant serving up fresh fish, pasta and seafood platters.

The restaurant is on the south tip of Malta and has stunning views across the sea.

City of Mdina

The walled city of Mdina is much less popular with tourists than the capital Valetta, making it a more secluded and serene spot.

It was once called the Silent City, and it’s easy to see why as less than 300 people live there.

Dotted with boutique hotels and restaurants, it’s a perfect tranquil gem to get away from the busy crowds.

Getty – ContributorThe walled city of Mdina is less popular with tourists than capital Valetta, making it a more secluded and serene spot[/caption]

Fomm Ir-Rih Bay

Fomm Ir-Rih Bay is thought of as the most isolated beach in Malta and can only be accessed via a steep path that takes visitors around 15 minutes to walk down.

The beach is pebbled and set against a backdrop of jagged cliffs, with clear blue water.

It’s a great place to swim, dive or snorkel when the sea is calm, but the waves can get big when the wind blows.

We’ve rounded up the 10 best activities and places to visit in Malta for families on holiday.

Summer holiday bookings are surging again – here’s how to still get a cheap deal.

AlamyMalta is home to lots of hidden bars, restaurants and beaches if you’re willing to look for them[/caption]