Chillout & Relaxation · Malta
Maltese Chillout
Arrive on your own; Jackie and a group of about 16 are with you the whole way.
17 Oct 2026 – 24 Oct 2026 7 nights from £1,288pp
Autumn in Malta: Time to Relax and Recharge
Take a well-earned break in beautiful Malta this autumn, where gentle Mediterranean sunshine, stunning coastal views, and charming streets set the scene for pure relaxation. This holiday is designed for unwinding at your own pace while meeting like-minded people — enjoy leisurely walks, shared meals, and relaxed afternoons by the sea with new friends. It’s the perfect combination of calm, connection, and carefree days in a stunning island setting.
St. Julian's is a vibrant, bustling seaside town, renowned for its energetic nightlife in Paceville, diverse dining, and scenic bays like Spinola and Balluta . It balances a modern tourist, nightlife-focused vibe with traditional fishing village charm, with excellent shopping and a central location near Valletta and Sliema.
From our location in St Julian's it is a short bus journey to Valletta or if you are a feeling a little more energetic it's about 40 minutes to to walk to the Sliema ferry terminal for a short trip across the harbour to Valetta probably the most scenic route to the capital city.
Valletta is regularly named among the top places to visit in Europe. The gorgeous streets of Valletta are abundantly rich in sites to see and explore, lined with intriguing historical buildings: votive statues, niches, fountains and coats of arms high up on parapets. The narrow side streets are full of pretty shops, cafés and restaurants, and down every street you’ll be able to see the distinct enclosed balconies that Valletta is renowned for.
St. John’s Co-Cathedral, at the heart of Valletta, contains two masterpieces by Caravaggio and is a gem of Baroque art and architecture. Every corner is a myriad 16th and 17th century art. This cathedral is one of the most magnificent buildings you’ll probably ever see!
Right across the majestic Grand Harbour from Valletta are the Three Cities- Birgu, Senglea, and Cospicua – collectively known as Cottonera. The oldest of the Three Cities is Birgu, which has existed since the Middle Ages. These fortified cities, that were once vital to Malta’s defence, are now quaint neighbourhoods, perfect for exploring. You can also take the ferry across the Grand Harbour to get the best view of Valletta from the sea.
A must-see in Cottonera is Fort St. Angelo, a bastioned fort in Birgu, which is located at the centre of the Grand Harbour. It was originally built in the medieval period as a castle and was rebuilt by the Order of Saint John as a bastioned fort called Fort Saint Angelo. The fort has recently been meticulously restored and is now a major tourist attraction.
Heading further afield getting around the island is easy on the network of well connected public transport and you can have your pick from the many harbour cruises that depart along the promenade in Sliema.
Availability and pricing
| Option | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Maltese Chillout | ||
| Own flight without transfers | £989.00 | Sold out |
| London Stansted | £1339.00 | Sold out |
| Manchester | £1379.00 | Sold out |
| Bristol | £1399.00 | Sold out |
| Edinburgh | £1399.00 | Sold out |
| Birmingham | £1439.00 | Sold out |
| London Gatwick | £1459.00 | Sold out |
| Valetta Walking Tour | £23.00 | Sold Out |
| Valletta: Best of Malta Food Tour | £59.00 | Sold Out |
| Mdina & Highlights of Malta Full Day Guided Tour | £62.00 | Sold Out |
| Gozo Full Day Buggy Tour with lunch & Comino Stop | £76.00 | Sold Out |
| Maltese Chillout - Accommodation | ||
| Place in a double room (must be for 2) | No supplement | Sold out |
| Place in a twin share room | No supplement | Sold out |
| Place in a sole occupancy room | £299.00 | Sold out |
Booking conditions for this holiday
Our booking conditions apply to this holiday, including the deposit and the cancellation scale. Read the booking conditions
Quote this reference if you call the team about it: SH0000730
Who else is going
The question everyone asks and nobody wants to.
- On this departure
- 16 people booked The operator's own count for this trip — you'd make 17. It can still grow before you travel.
- Travelling alone
- Most people book on their own
Where you'll go
Plan your time with this suggested itinerary
Please take a look at the optional excursions available to help with your planning too!
Day 1
Arrival and a Gentle Introduction
After arrival and check-in, take a relaxed walk around Spinola Bay , a charming harbour with colourful fishing boats and waterside cafés.
Continue along the promenade towards Balluta Bay for sea views and fresh air.
Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants, easing into the Maltese pace of life.
Day 2
Valletta and the Grand Harbour
Spend the day in Valletta , Malta’s elegant capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights include St. John’s Co-Cathedral , renowned for its ornate interior, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering sweeping views across the Grand Harbour.
In the afternoon, consider a short harbour cruise for a relaxing way to appreciate Valletta’s fortifications from the water. Alternatively, explore the historic streets at your own pace, stopping for coffee in one of the city’s traditional cafés.
Day 3
Mdina, Rabat and Rural Malta
Travel inland to Mdina , the former capital known as the Silent City. Its narrow lanes, honey-coloured stone buildings and panoramic views make it one of Malta’s most atmospheric locations.
Just outside the city walls lies Rabat , where you may wish to visit the historic catacombs or enjoy lunch in a traditional Maltese restaurant.
Return to St Julian’s for a relaxed evening at the hotel or by the sea.
Day 4
Coastal Scenery and the Blue Grotto
Discover Malta’s dramatic southern coastline. Visit the famous Blue Grotto , where small boats take visitors into sea caves known for their vivid blue waters (weather permitting).
Continue to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk , known for its traditional luzzu boats and relaxed waterfront atmosphere. It is an ideal spot for a seafood lunch.
Day 5
Gozo: Malta’s Sister Island
Take the ferry to Gozo , an island known for its rural charm and slower pace.
Visit Victoria’s Citadel for panoramic views, explore picturesque villages and enjoy the island’s unspoilt countryside. Gozo offers a quieter contrast to mainland Malta and is well suited to a full day of gentle exploration.
Day 6
Gardens, Crafts and Local Heritage
Visit the historic San Anton Gardens , a peaceful setting ideal for a morning stroll.
Continue to the artisan village of Ta' Qali Crafts Village , where local glassblowers and craftspeople showcase traditional Maltese skills.
The afternoon can be spent at leisure back in St Julian’s — perhaps relaxing at the hotel pool or enjoying a quiet coffee overlooking the Mediterranean.
Day 7
Time to relax
Phew, after a busy week time to sit back and chill!
Day 8
Leisure and Departure
Enjoy a final morning at a relaxed pace. Take one last walk along the coastal promenade or enjoy a long breakfast before departure. With its central location and comfortable surroundings, Number 11 provides an ideal base for discovering Malta’s rich history, coastal beauty and welcoming atmosphere — all without the need for late nights or busy schedules.
What's included
- International flights if required
- Airport transfer in Malta
- 3* accommodation (local rating)
- Maltese Environmental Contribution
- 7 continental breakfasts
- 4 evening meals
- Your Spice host, Jackie Whyte
Not included
- Sole occupancy room supplement if selected
- Personal travel Insurance
- Drinks & some meals
- Personal extras
Travel and where you'll stay
Number 11
For our Malta escape, we’ll be staying at Number 11 in St Julian’s — a stylish adults-only hotel that offers comfort, character and an excellent central location.
Situated in the heart of St Julian’s, the hotel provides easy access to the seafront, cafés and restaurants, making it an ideal base for exploring the island. Contemporary in design yet relaxed in atmosphere, it offers a welcoming environment that suits our Spice Escapes group perfectly.
Guests can enjoy the rooftop pool terrace — a lovely spot to unwind after a day’s sightseeing — and there is access to a nearby wellness spa for those who would like a little extra relaxation during the week.
With its convenient setting and modern facilities, Number 11 gives us the freedom to explore Malta by day while returning each evening to a comfortable and well-located base. Part of the Urban Hotels collection in Malta, it is one of three distinctive properties in St Julian’s and Sliema, known for their style and accessibility.
This hotel provides the right balance of comfort, location and atmosphere for a relaxed and enjoyable Spice Escapes getaway.
Getting there — flights to Malta
Departing from London Gatwick, London Stansted, Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh or Bristol.
London Gatwick
London Stansted
Birmingham
Manchester
Edinburgh
Bristol
These are the times currently scheduled. Airlines change them, sometimes months before departure, so please treat them as provisional rather than final.
Luggage, transfers and flight notes
Included Luggage Allowance
Small Hand bag/rucksack in the cabin plus 20kg hold luggage
Before you travel
Passport validity
For UK passport holders your passport must be:
- issued less than 10 years before the day you enter (check the "date of issue")
- valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the "expiry date")
You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.
Entry rules for EU travel — EES, ETIAS and your GHIC
EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is being introduced gradually across the external borders of the European countries that use it, including the collection of biometric data such as a facial image and fingerprints. Passports continue to be stamped as usual in the meantime.
Further information: travel-europe.europa.eu/ees
ETIAS
UK citizens will eventually need a travel authorisation (ETIAS) to enter the European countries that require it for short stays. It is linked to your passport and valid for up to three years. There is no confirmed start date yet — we will let everyone know when it is required and how to apply.
Global Health Insurance Card
A UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), or a still-valid EHIC, gives you the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in the EU. It is not a replacement for travel insurance.
Travel insurance
Please ensure that you have adequate personal travel insurance to suit your requirements in place before you travel.
Gallery
Everything else
FCO travel guidance for Malta
Before you book
Will I be the only one on my own?
No. Almost everyone books on their own — that is the whole point of the trip. Nobody has to pair up and nobody sits on their own at dinner unless they want to.
Do I have to share a room?
Only if you want to. Sharing a twin with another solo traveller of the same sex costs nothing extra, and it is how most people keep the price down. If you would rather have a room to yourself, you can — see the single-room price on the trip you are looking at.
Is there a single supplement?
There is a charge for a room of your own and it varies a great deal by trip, so the honest answer is the figure on the holiday you are looking at rather than an average. What there is not is any obligation to pay it: sharing a twin with another solo traveller of the same sex costs nothing extra, and it is a genuine option rather than a token one.
Every holiday with a single room available, and what each one costs, is listed on single rooms and single supplements.
How big is the group?
Small enough to learn everyone’s name in the first day or two. Group sizes vary by trip and are listed on each holiday.
What does the host actually do?
Your host is there to make your holiday feel easy, welcoming and fun. They travel with the group throughout the trip, help everyone get to know each other, keep things running smoothly and are there if you need anything along the way.
They’re not a traditional holiday rep — they’re part of the group, sharing the experience with you and helping make sure nobody feels left out.
Is my money protected?
Yes. Payments are held in a bonded trust account and the holidays are ATOL protected under licence 9046.
What age are the other travellers?
It varies by trip. Most groups span a wide range of ages with a shared interest in the destination rather than a shared birth year.
Is there a minimum age?
Yes — 18. Spice Escapes holidays are adults only.
Most people who travel with us are in their forties and beyond, but that is who books rather than a rule. There is no upper age limit, and two people travelling together do not need to be a similar age: a daughter in her thirties travelling with her mother in her sixties is an ordinary booking.
Is Spice Escapes a singles or dating holiday company?
No. Spice Escapes is a hosted holiday company for people who travel on their own. Almost everyone books alone, groups are small and adults only (mostly forties to sixties), and a named host travels with every departure so nobody is the odd one out. It is about the destination and the company, not matchmaking.
What travellers say
4.9/5 from 63 reviews on Google
Questions about this holiday?
Ring the office, send us a question, or chat any hour. A real person, not a call centre.
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