Comino

 The name Blue Lagoon is actually a divine conglomeration of not only varying shades of blue but also emerald, aquamarine, cerulean and indigo. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the azure sky above, pure white sands at its bottom are so clearly visible you can almost count the grains. In fact, Comino and its Blue Lagoon are so beautiful that they have been chosen as backdrops for such films as Helen of Troy, Swept Away and The Count of Monte Cristo. Children can play safely in its warm shallow waters, older family members can bask in the Maltese sun, partake of a wide range of non-motorised water sports inside the lagoon or water ski in the deeper waters nearby.

Away from this gorgeous rocky bay, nature rules on the 3.5 square kilometre Comino island (named after the cumin seed that could once be found everywhere in Malta). The peaceful landscape less than 10 people actually inhabit the island, encompasses cliffs, two sandy beaches, coves and creeks, the perfect setting for a bird sanctuary and nature reserve. With no roads or cars here, winding pathways invite you to ramble, hike or ride to the 13th century Chapel of Our Lady's Return from Egypt or to the ancient St Mary's Tower, a fortification built by the Knights of Malta in 1618 to keep pirates away. Alternatively, you can spend long, hot summer days in, on or under the incredible Mediterranean waters all around. Situated between Malta and Gozo, Comino is a paradise for snorkellers, windsurdfers and divers.