Holidays to Qawra flaunt all the ingredients of a classic sun, sand and sea combo. So pack suntan lotion, swimming gear, and an underwater camera to capture the Technicolor sea life in Malta's northern waters.

Bay watch

Qawra – pronounced awra – is a charming, purpose-built resort in north-east Malta. The town is set around scenic St Paul’s Bay, with luxury, high-rise hotels hugging the seafront. It works on 2 levels – as a vibrant summer destination, but also as a stress-free place to enjoy a winter break. And it blends seamlessly into Buggiba, its bolder, brasher, bayside neighbour, which boasts a pretty harbour and a waterpark along its brand-new promenade.

Qawra Point

At Qawra Point, the northernmost tip of St Paul’s Bay, there’s a rocky Blue Flag beach with a breathtaking setting that makes it a people magnet in the summer months. There’s waterskiing and jet-skiing, as well as scuba diving on tap. Plus, you’ll find sunloungers for hire, and a reggae bar and restaurant. Further south along St Paul’s Bay, Qawra has a handful of lidos with pools, which make a popular alternative to the beach.

The layout

A scenic promenade edged with pineapple trees follows the arc of the bay between Qawra to Bugibba. Its focal point is the 16th-century Qawra Tower. Once a fortress, this historical landmark is now home to a swimming pool and restaurant. But the real heartbeat of the resort is Tourist Street and the roads spilling off it. Here, you’ll find a huge array of restaurants and pubs that satisfy both British and Mediterranean palates, and stay open ‘til the small hours.

Close to Mdina

Around half an hour's drive away is Mdina, the old capital of Malta. It’s a gorgeous Medieval city built from golden stone with a Baroque cathedral that takes centre stage. Climb the bastion walls that circle the town and the best views of the island open out before you. Then explore the hushed alleys and piazzas and you’ll see why they call this the Silent City.