Tucked beneath Italy is a beautiful set of islands with a must-see natural pool and historic towns.

Malta is an archipelago in the Mediterranean between Sicily and North Africa. Throughout history, the islands have had a strategically important location and thus were invaded by the Romans, Greeks, Normans, Arabs, French and British, each of whom left their mark.

It is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, the tiny capital of Valletta, and seven megalithic temples which are some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.

Malta's maximum temperature is 18C in the winter and 34C in the summer. Winter sees rain while summer is generally dry and gets four times the amount of sunshine as London.

The country comprises five islands—Malta (the largest), Gozo, Comino, and the uninhabited islets of Kemmunett (Comminotto) and Filfla. They have a total population of 520,000 people.

Between Comino and Kemmunett is the famous Blue Lagoon, called a “paradise on earth” by visitors. It is a natural wide pool of azure blue waters and a white sandy beach.

It has been described as “blissfully untainted” by the modern world, though it does have all modern comforts such as beachside food stands and umbrella-topped sunbeds.

Tourists can visit the Blue Lagoon by ferry from Cirkewwa or Marfa, day cruise from Sliema Ferry, or private boat. It is busiest during the summer but still gets temperatures of around 25C in the autumn.

Another popular spot to visit is Mdina, a walled city that served as the country’s capital from antiquity to medieval times. Its narrow, cobbled streets are lined with preserved churches, beautiful palaces, and centuries-old walls.

Valletta is the current capital city and is the EU’s smallest capital. It is Baroque in character, with elements of Neo-Classical and Modern architecture. The city is noted for its fortifications and the beauty of its palaces, gardens, and churches.

The islands also have many age-old traditions that are still upheld today, with elaborate fireworks displays and rowdy village festas that offer warm hospitality and delicious food, such as Carnival, Mnarja, and Saints' Days.